If you’re a fan of the classic jalapeño popper but want something a little more filling, then this Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup will be your new go-to comfort food! This recipe combines the bold, spicy flavors of jalapeños with a creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, and gooey cheddar cheese, resulting in a soup that’s rich, warming, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for chilly nights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.
Overview of the Recipe
This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup brings together the classic elements of a jalapeño popper—creamy cheese, jalapeños, and chicken—in a soup that’s hearty enough for a main course. With a short list of simple ingredients, you can have this soup on the table in under 40 minutes. Additionally, it’s easy to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños, making it adaptable for all palates.
Learn more about jalapeños and their health benefits and why adding spicy foods to your diet can be beneficial.
History and Origin
While the jalapeño popper originated in Texas as a stuffed, breaded, and fried snack, variations on the dish quickly spread across the United States due to its popularity. By transforming this beloved appetizer into a soup, we capture the essence of the original flavors while offering a unique twist. Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy, jalapeño popper soup became a household favorite in the U.S., especially in the cooler months.
Ingredients
To make this soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 jalapeños, diced (adjust to taste)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced jalapeños, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. This will release the flavors and create a rich base for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 3: Combine with Creamy Ingredients
- Add the cooked and shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream to the pot.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is well incorporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese
- Just before serving, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled turkey bacon and fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot, and enjoy this spicy, creamy soup!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. A side salad or roasted vegetables can add a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy soup. For a low-carb pairing, serve with a few slices of avocado to add a cooling effect to the spice.
Check out more on serving soups for every occasion in Allrecipes.
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace the shredded chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables.
- Extra Spicy: Add diced serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bolder heat level.
- Milder Flavor: Seed the jalapeños before dicing, as the seeds contain most of the heat.
- Alternative Proteins: Try using shredded beef or chicken ham for a different twist on the soup’s protein.
Health Benefits of Jalapeños
Jalapeños are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and capsaicin, which is known for its potential to boost metabolism and relieve pain. Adding jalapeños to your meals can promote better digestion and may help with weight management.
FAQs
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Freeze Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup?
Cream-based soups can be tricky to freeze as they may separate upon reheating. However, if you plan to freeze it, omit the cream and cream cheese and add them after reheating.
Is There a Dairy-Free Version of This Soup?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of heavy cream, and try dairy-free cream cheese to keep the soup creamy without the dairy.
Conclusion
This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup offers a deliciously unique way to enjoy the flavors of jalapeño poppers in a warm, creamy soup. Perfect for fall and winter nights or whenever you’re craving something comforting with a spicy kick. Customize it to your liking, add your favorite toppings, and savor the perfect balance of spice and creaminess. This recipe is bound to become a household favorite for its versatility, ease, and rich flavors.
Print
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup combines the creamy, cheesy flavors of jalapeño poppers with tender shredded chicken in a cozy, comforting soup. Ideal for chilly evenings, this recipe brings a satisfying kick and is easily customizable to your spice preference.
Ingredients
- 4 jalapeños, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat.
- Sauté jalapeños, onion, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to simmer.
- Add cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until well blended.
- Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Just before serving, stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with turkey bacon and cilantro.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the jalapeño seeds.
- Omit turkey bacon for a vegetarian version.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g