If you’re a fan of bold flavors with a creamy finish, this Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup will be your new favorite comfort food. This soup captures the essence of jalapeño poppers in a bowl, blending the heat of jalapeños with the richness of cream cheese, cheddar, and crispy bacon. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need something warm and comforting but with a kick. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or even as a hearty starter to impress guests. Packed with protein from shredded chicken and creamy goodness, this soup will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
• 4 jalapeños, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions
1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add the diced jalapeños, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the jalapeños are soft, allowing the vegetables to release their flavors.
2. Simmer the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to blend together.
3. Add chicken: Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken breast, combining it well with the broth and vegetables. This step adds both protein and heartiness to the soup.
4. Incorporate cream cheese: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese has melted into the broth, creating a creamy base.
5. Add cream and seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and the spices to meld.
6. Melt the cheddar: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted, creating a rich and cheesy consistency.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each bowl with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
8. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness.
Prep Time
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal per Serving
• 320 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6 servings
Tips
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder soup, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before dicing them. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your chicken broth and other ingredients to ensure they are labeled gluten-free.
• Cream cheese tip: For easier incorporation, make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the soup. You can leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to cooking.
• Cheese choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add more spice, while gouda or mozzarella can provide a unique flavor twist.
• Bacon crispiness: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Benefits
• Rich in Protein: The shredded chicken adds a high amount of lean protein to this dish, making it a satisfying meal.
• Creamy without excess carbs: The soup offers a creamy texture thanks to the combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and heavy cream, without relying on carb-heavy thickeners like flour.
• Healthy Fats: The addition of bacon and cheese provides good amounts of fats, which help in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins from the meal.
• Boost of Heat: Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which may help boost metabolism and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Quick and Easy: This soup is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy consistency.
2. Can I freeze this soup?Because this soup contains cream and cheese, freezing may cause the texture to change once reheated. However, if you must freeze it, do so without the heavy cream and cheddar. Add those ingredients when reheating the soup.
3. How can I make this vegetarian?To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with more vegetables like diced bell peppers, and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also use plant-based bacon as a topping.
4. What can I serve with this soup?This soup pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?If you love heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add diced serrano peppers for an extra spicy kick. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can also do the trick.
Conclusion
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and spice. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with bold flavors that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or need a quick weeknight meal, this soup delivers both flavor and ease. With a hearty base of shredded chicken, jalapeños, and bacon, this dish is as filling as it is flavorful. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste by adjusting the heat level or experimenting with different cheeses. So, grab your pot and get ready to enjoy a soup that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
