Jalapeño Popper Chicken and Corn Chowder

Ingredients

4 los, seeded and minced
1 small red onion, minced
1 large bell pepper, minced
1/4 cup butter
6 cups chicken stock
3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
1 (16-ounce) bag frozen corn kernels
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
5 strips thick-cut bacon
2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, cut into one-inch cubes
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: grated cheddar, parsley, and crumbled bacon

Directions

1. Sauté the peppers, onions and jalapenos in butter for about five minutes.
2. Add the chicken stock and potatoes and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Add the corn, bacon, cheddar, cream cheese, and parsley. Continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring, until the cheese is melted.
4. Add the cream and continue heating until the chowder is hot enough to serve. Patience is important. Keep the heat low and don't let your chowder boil – cream soups often curdle or separate if boiled. Use medium-low heat and let it gradually come up to serving temperature.
5. Serve with your favorite crusty bread, crackers and or garnishes.