Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices thick-cut beef bacon, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 jalapeños, deseeded and minced (remove seeds and membranes for less heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove turkey bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of turkey bacon fat in the pot. Add the olive oil if needed, then add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: Add the diced yellow onion and minced jalapeños to the pot. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 3: Return the chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese cubes to the soup, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is fully incorporated and melted, creating a creamy texture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Ladle the Spicy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with the reserved crispy turkey bacon bits before serving hot.
Notes
- Leftover soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; perfect for a quick lunch later in the week!
- Gently reheat individual portions on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short bursts, to maintain its creamy texture and prevent separation.
- This rich soup is delightful on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread for dipping, or even tortilla chips for an extra crunch.
- For the smoothest, most luxurious consistency, always add your softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar on low heat, stirring continuously until each is fully melted and incorporated before adding the next.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American