This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a warm and cozy dish that packs a spicy punch! With creamy chicken, zesty jalapeños, and cheesy goodness, it’s a perfect comfort meal.
Who knew soup could be so exciting? It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love topping mine with extra cheese and crispy bacon for a little crunch. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this soup. If you prefer, you can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just shred it and add it at the end!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring the heat and flavor. If you want it milder, remove the seeds or use a milder pepper like poblanos or Anaheim peppers.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the soup. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, but note that it will change the flavor a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great taste. If you prefer, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little extra kick. Vegan cheese works, too!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds crunch. If you want a vegetarian version, skip it altogether or use tempeh bacon.
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Creamy Texture?
To achieve a smooth and creamy soup, focus on adding the cream cheese gradually. Here’s a simple way to do this:
- After simmering the chicken and jalapeños, remove the chicken and add the cream cheese into the broth.
- Whisk it in well until fully melted before adding in other ingredients. This prevents clumps.
- When adding the cheese and sour cream, do it over low heat to keep it from curdling. Stir gently for that perfect velvety texture.
Finding the right balance of ingredients makes all the difference, so taste along the way and enjoy making this comforting soup!
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3 fresh jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat if desired)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Optional: extra sliced jalapeños and shredded cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This jalapeño popper chicken soup will take about 15-20 minutes to prep and another 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step will enhance the flavor of your soup.
2. Cook the chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Shred the chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot carefully and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside for later.
4. Add spices and jalapeños:
To the remaining broth in the pot, add the sliced jalapeños, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together.
5. Incorporate the creaminess:
Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts and mixes smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy texture. This is what makes the soup so delicious!
6. Combine the ingredients:
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions into the pot. Stir gently to combine everything and keep it on low heat for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
7. Taste and adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. This is your chance to make it just right for your taste buds!
8. Serve it up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra sliced jalapeños, shredded cheese, and crumbled bacon for garnish. It adds a nice crunch and explosion of flavors!
9. Enjoy:
Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy comfort of your homemade jalapeño popper chicken soup! Perfect for chilly days or when you just want something delicious.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by placing the chicken in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want a milder soup, simply remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing them. You can also reduce the number of jalapeños or substitute with a milder pepper like green bell pepper.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove. If it thickens in the fridge, add a bit of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency when reheating.
What Should I Serve with Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider topping it with sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole!