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Smoky Jalapeño Popper Soup

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This Smoky Jalapeño Popper Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a smoky, spicy twist. Inspired by the flavors of classic jalapeño poppers, this soup features grilled chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and smoky paprika, all balanced in a rich, velvety broth. Topped with crispy turkey bacon and fresh green onions, it’s a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, as a main dish or a side, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Ingredients

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For the soup:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 jalapeños, seeded and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded grilled chicken

For the topping:

  • ½ cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and jalapeños, cooking until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Reduce heat and add the heavy cream and softened cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
  5. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the cheese is fully melted.
  6. Add the cooked grilled chicken and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Serve hot, topped with turkey bacon, green onions, and extra cheddar cheese.

Notes

  • For extra spice: Leave some jalapeño seeds or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • For a thicker soup: Use less broth or let it simmer longer.
  • For a lighter version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-fat cheese.
  • For a vegetarian version: Swap chicken for black beans and use vegetable broth.
  • For a smoky boost: Use smoked cheddar cheese or fire-roasted tomatoes.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/smoky-jalapeno-popper-soup/