– A Spicy, Creamy Delight
Soup lovers, get ready for a rich, smoky, and creamy bowl of goodness! This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Chicken is the perfect blend of spicy jalapeños, tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese. If you love the flavors of classic jalapeño poppers, this soup takes it to the next level with a warm, comforting, and satisfying twist. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a game-day meal, or meal prep, this easy one-pot recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy soup—especially when it’s packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat. This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Soup combines the spicy kick of jalapeños, the smokiness of bacon, the creaminess of cheese, and the heartiness of grilled chicken, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
This soup is perfect for chilly nights, parties, or whenever you’re craving something warm and spicy. Plus, it’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and packed with protein, making it a great option for those looking for a hearty yet healthy meal. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful jalapeño popper soup recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
To make this Smoky Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Chicken, you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb grilled chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and diced (leave some seeds for extra spice)
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Optional Toppings
- Extra crispy bacon bits
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
1. Sauté the AromaticsIn a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Jalapeños & Spices
Stir in the diced jalapeños, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and the jalapeños to soften. The smoky aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
3. Add the Chicken & Broth
Add the diced grilled chicken and crumbled bacon, stirring to coat them in the spices. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Make It CreamyLower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk gently until the cheeses melt completely, creating a smooth, creamy texture. Season with salt, black pepper, and lime juice for a bright, tangy finish.
5. Blend for Extra Creaminess (Optional)For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while keeping some chunks of chicken and jalapeños for texture. If you prefer a chunky soup, skip this step.6. Serve & GarnishLadle the Smoky Jalapeño Popper Soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños all make excellent toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional InformationHere’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:Calories: 420Carbohydrates: 8gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gFiber: 2gSugar: 3gSodium: 780mg
