Spice things up with this delicious and comforting Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup! Perfect for those chilly nights when you want something hearty and flavorful.
## Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion, jalapeños, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
3. Add the chicken broth and chicken breasts to the pot. Simmer until chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove chicken, shred, and return to the pot.
5. Add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon.
## Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 25g
– Carbs: 5g
– Protein: 26g
## Popular questions:
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?
– Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply shred and add it at the end to warm through.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
– You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the soup may not be as creamy.
3. How can I make this soup less spicy?
– To reduce the spice level, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use fewer jalapeños.
4. Can I freeze this soup for later?
– Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. What can I serve with this soup?
– This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or some tortilla chips.
6. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
– Yes, you can use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative.
7. How long will this soup stay fresh in the refrigerator?
– This soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
8. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
– Feel free to add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
9. Is this soup gluten-free?
– This soup is gluten-free as long as all the ingredients are gluten-free.
10. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
– Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking on low for 4-6 hours.
## Helpful tips:
1. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and color.
3. Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals.
4. Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut to save time.
5. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top before serving.
6. Serve with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
7. Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
8. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
9. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeños used.
10. Try adding some diced tomatoes or green chilies for additional texture and flavor.
## Expert Secrets:
1. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
2. Use quality ingredients, especially the cheeses, for a rich and creamy texture.
3. Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
4. Let the soup cool slightly before blending if you prefer a smoother consistency.
5. Try adding a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.
6. Use fresh jalapeños for the best flavor, but canned or pickled jalapeños will work in a pinch.
7. To make this soup spicy, leave some seeds in the jalapeños.
8. Add a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
9. Top the soup with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy element.
10. Experiment with different toppings such as avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of salsa.
This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is sure to become a new favorite in your household with its creamy, flavorful, and satisfying taste. Enjoy!