Description
A creamy, hearty chicken soup inspired by jalapeño poppers—packed with tender chicken, spicy jalapeños, cream cheese, cheddar, and smoky seasonings for a bold, comforting flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 jalapeños, seeded and diced (leave some seeds for more heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until lightly browned.
- Add onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Add cream cheese, stirring until fully melted into the soup.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Simmer for another 5–10 minutes to thicken.
- Stir in crumbled bacon just before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and top with green onions.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave seeds in the jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne.
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep—add when adding broth.
- Add cooked potatoes or cauliflower for a heartier soup.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American