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Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup

A cozy, creamy soup inspired by jalapeño poppers, featuring a blend of spices, cheese, and topped with crispy bacon and tortilla chips.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 3-5 pieces Jalapeños, seeded and diced Keep some seeds if you want it hotter.
  • 1 medium Yellow onion, diced Classic choice for base flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 4 cups Low sodium chicken broth Use low sodium to control salt content.
  • 2 cups Shredded rotisserie chicken Easy and convenient.
  • 8 oz Cream cheese, softened The secret to the popper vibe.
  • 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack also works.
  • 1-2 cups Heavy cream or half-and-half To taste for creaminess.
Garnish & Toppings
  • 4 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled Turkey bacon is an option.
  • 1/2 cup Tortilla chips, crushed For adding crunch.
  • 1 pieces Lime, for squeezing over the top Optional for tang.
Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • salt To taste
  • pepper To taste
  • optional Cayenne pepper for extra heat Add according to preference.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Cook the bacon in a heavy pot until crisp. Remove the bacon and leave about a tablespoon of drippings for flavor.
  2. Sauté the diced onion and jalapeños in the drippings with a pinch of salt until soft and fragrant.
  3. Add minced garlic for the last minute so it does not burn.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in the shredded chicken and spices.
  6. Reduce heat to low and whisk in the cream cheese, a few cubes at a time, allowing each piece to melt before adding more.
  7. Once smooth, sprinkle in the cheddar and stir until completely melted.
  8. Finish with a splash of cream to taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Notes

To make ahead, cook through the simmer step and stop before adding dairy. Refrigerate up to 3 days, then reheat and stir in the cream cheese and cheddar right before serving.