# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken & Broth
01 - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped, optional
→ Spices
08 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjusted to taste
13 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Creamy Base
14 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
15 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
16 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
→ Garnishes
17 - Fresh cilantro, chopped, optional
18 - Sliced avocado, optional
19 - Lime wedges, optional
20 - Extra shredded cheese, optional
# How to Prepare:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño if using. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
02 - Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until the spices become fragrant.
03 - Add chicken breasts or thighs and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
04 - Remove chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese cubes, stirring continuously until completely melted and incorporated into the broth.
06 - Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup reaches a creamy and smooth consistency.
07 - Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve hot with your choice of garnishes.