Cream of jalapeno soup with chicken is the perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and hearty goodness. This versatile dish, rooted in Tex-Mex flavors, is ideal as a standalone meal or a flavorful starter. Whether you’re a fan of spice or just looking to try something unique, this soup is sure to impress.
The addition of chicken takes this dish to another level, making it not only satisfying but also protein-packed. With a creamy base, the kick of jalapeños, and tender chicken pieces, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.
What you will find in this article:
Key Ingredients for Cream of Jalapeño Soup with Chicken
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With a few core ingredients and some optional add-ons, you can customize this soup to suit your taste.
Core Ingredients
- Chicken:
- Use shredded or diced chicken breast, thighs, or even rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Jalapeños:
- Fresh jalapeños provide heat and flavor. Roast them to enhance their smokiness.
- Heavy Cream:
- Creates the creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
- Chicken Broth:
- A flavorful base that ties everything together.
- Aromatics:
- Onions, garlic, and cilantro add depth of flavor.
Optional Ingredients
- Cheese:
- Add shredded cheddar, cream cheese, or Monterey Jack for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetables:
- Corn, potatoes, or black beans add texture and nutrients.
- Spices:
- Enhance the flavor with cumin, smoked paprika, or chili powder.
For a keto-friendly twist, you can replace heavy cream with cauliflower puree. Learn more about keto-friendly soups for ideas on low-carb alternatives.
How to Prepare the Ingredients
Preparing your ingredients correctly is key to achieving the perfect balance of heat and creaminess in your soup.
1. Preparing the Jalapeños
- Wash the jalapeños thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Slice them lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat. For a spicier kick, leave the seeds intact.
- Roast the jalapeños for a smoky flavor. Place them on a baking sheet and broil until the skin is blistered, then peel and chop.
2. Cooking the Chicken
- Cook the chicken until tender:
- Poach chicken breasts in broth and shred them.
- Dice cooked chicken thighs for a heartier texture.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
3. Sautéing Aromatics
- Dice onions and garlic finely.
- Sauté in olive oil or butter until translucent and fragrant.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cream of Jalapeño Soup with Chicken
Here’s how to bring it all together:
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded chicken
- 6 fresh jalapeños (roasted and chopped)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and lime for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add Jalapeños:
- Stir in the chopped jalapeños and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Build the Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add Chicken:
- Stir in shredded chicken and cook for 10 minutes.
- Make It Creamy:
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Add shredded cheese if desired.
- Season:
- Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread.
Health Benefits of Jalapeños and Chicken in Soup
Cream of jalapeño soup with chicken isn’t just delicious—it also has some surprising health benefits. Let’s explore the nutritional perks of the star ingredients: jalapeños and chicken.
1. Health Benefits of Jalapeños
Jalapeños bring more than just heat to the table. Here’s why they’re a great addition to your diet:
- Low in Calories:
- Jalapeños are extremely low-calorie, making them a guilt-free ingredient.
- Rich in Vitamin C:
- Just one jalapeño provides over 10% of your daily vitamin C needs, helping to boost your immune system.
- Capsaicin’s Benefits:
- The compound that gives jalapeños their spicy kick, capsaicin, can:
- Boost metabolism and promote calorie burn.
- Provide anti-inflammatory benefits, reducing joint pain.
- Help improve digestion by stimulating stomach acids.
- The compound that gives jalapeños their spicy kick, capsaicin, can:
2. Health Benefits of Chicken
Adding chicken to this soup makes it hearty and nutritious:
- Lean Protein:
- Chicken breast is a high-protein, low-fat option that supports muscle health and repair.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:
- Chicken contains B vitamins, zinc, and iron, essential for energy production and immune support.
- Versatility in Diets:
- Chicken works in low-carb, keto, and high-protein diets.
3. Balancing Indulgence with Health
- Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or light coconut milk for fewer calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce salt intake.
History and Cultural Significance of Jalapeño Soups
Cream of jalapeño soup with chicken isn’t just a comfort food—it’s a dish with roots in cultural and regional culinary traditions.
1. The Origins of Jalapeños
Jalapeños are a staple of Mexican cuisine and have been cultivated for centuries. Their versatility has made them popular in dishes worldwide, including soups, sauces, and salsas.
2. Tex-Mex Influence
- This dish is a classic example of Tex-Mex cuisine, which blends Mexican and American culinary traditions.
- The creaminess of the soup reflects American preferences, while the heat of the jalapeños keeps it authentically spicy.
3. The Rise of Cream-Based Soups
- Cream-based soups became popular in the U.S. in the mid-20th century, particularly as canned soups like cream of mushroom gained traction.
- Adding jalapeños and chicken puts a flavorful, regional twist on this classic concept.
4. Global Variations
- Similar soups are found in other cuisines:
- Asia: Creamy soups with coconut milk and chili peppers resemble the balance of spice and creaminess.
- Europe: Cream-based vegetable soups often use dairy and herbs to create rich flavors.
Variations of Cream of Jalapeño Soup with Chicken
1. Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Soup
- Add 1 cup of cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Use a blend of shredded cheeses for extra decadence.
2. Low-Calorie Option
- Replace heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or light coconut milk.
- Use lean chicken breast and skip the cheese.
3. Vegetable-Packed Version
- Add diced potatoes, sweet corn, or zucchini for a hearty twist.
- Blend half the soup for a creamy consistency while keeping some chunks intact.
For more creative ideas, check out this Cream of Jalapeno Soup recipe.
Best Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Elevate your soup with these side dishes and garnishes:
1. Side Dishes
- Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping or crumbling on top.
- Cornbread: Adds a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy soup.
- Salad: A fresh avocado or lime-dressed salad complements the richness of the soup.
2. Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Shredded cheese
- A dollop of sour cream
- Lime wedges for a zesty kick
3. Beverage Pairings
- Light Beer: Balances the heat with refreshing malt notes.
- Iced Tea: A cooling, non-alcoholic option.
- Margaritas: Add a festive touch to your meal.
Storing and Reheating the Soup
1. Storing Leftovers
- Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing
- Cream-based soups can be frozen, but reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy meals.
3. Reheating Tips
- Warm on the stove over low heat.
- Add a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency.
FAQs About Cream of Jalapeño Soup with Chicken
How spicy is cream of jalapeño soup with chicken?
The spice level depends on how many seeds and membranes are left in the jalapeños. Removing them makes the soup milder.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?
Shredded chicken breast is lean and tender, but chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken work equally well for added flavor.
How do I thicken the soup?
Blend a portion of the soup or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen as the soup sits, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Cream of jalapeño soup with chicken is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or serve it at a gathering, its combination of creamy texture and spicy kick is always a crowd-pleaser. With endless variations and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ready to spice up your meal? Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting bowl of cream of jalapeño soup with chicken!
