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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/spicy-popper-chicken-soup-recipe/