Spicy Popper Chicken Soup Recipe

Introduction

Spicy Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines the heat of jalapeños with rich cheeses and tender chicken. Perfect for those who enjoy a comforting meal with a bit of a spicy kick.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large jalapeños, seeds removed and diced (Adjust number based on spice preference)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (Can substitute half with low-fat milk for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Optional for added flavor)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Step 4: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Step 6: Add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it is fully incorporated and the soup is creamy.
7. Step 7: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. If using, add the crumbled bacon for added flavor.
8. Step 8: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder soup, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove all seeds before dicing.
• Substitute half the heavy cream with low-fat milk to lighten the soup without sacrificing creaminess.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving for a bright, tangy finish.
• Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version and add extra cheese or roasted veggies instead.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream cheese and cheddar from separating. Avoid boiling after reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can substitute cooked chicken to save time. Add it during the last few minutes of simmering to heat through without overcooking.

Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

To make a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar. The flavor will differ slightly but remain delicious.

Spicy Popper Chicken Soup Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 140 reviews

Spicy Popper Chicken Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish inspired by the classic jalapeño popper flavors. This comforting soup combines tender shredded chicken, spicy jalapeños, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese in a rich broth, finished with a touch of smoky bacon and fresh cilantro for garnish. Perfect for spice lovers seeking a hearty, warming meal.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large jalapeños, seeds removed and diced (Adjust number based on spice preference)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (Can substitute half with low-fat milk for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy & Cheese

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Additions & Garnish

• 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Optional for added flavor)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Jalapeños: Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to release their flavors.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
4. Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the broth.
5. Add Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor.
6. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the soup, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
7. Add Cheddar and Bacon: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. If using, fold in the crumbled bacon for an added smoky flavor.
8. Simmer to Meld Flavors: Let the soup simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
9. Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color.

Notes

• Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the heat level according to your preference.
• For a lighter soup, substitute half the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
• Crumbled bacon is optional but adds a smoky depth to the soup.
• Use fresh cilantro as a garnish to enhance the aroma and add a fresh touch.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
• This soup pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.

Keywords: spicy chicken soup, jalapeño popper soup, creamy chicken soup, comfort food, spicy soup recipe, cheddar cheese soup, easy chicken soup