Queso Chicken Stew (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 carrot, diced into small pieces.
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped finely.
03 - 2 tablespoons butter with salt.
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced.
05 - 3 to 4 cups chicken stock.
06 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.
07 - 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese.
08 - 4 ounces green chiles, chopped.
09 - 8 ounces softened cream cheese.
10 - Half a tablespoon of chili powder.
11 - 1 teaspoon black pepper.
12 - 2 to 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken.
13 - Cilantro for garnish (optional).
14 - Tortilla strips to sprinkle on top (optional).
15 - Extra grated cheese for topping (optional).

# Instructions:

01 - Melt the butter in a big pot. Throw in the onion and carrot, cooking for about 10 minutes to soften. Add garlic and stir for another minute.
02 - Pour in the chicken broth, then mix in cubed cream cheese and the shredded cheeses a little bit at a time until it's all melted together.
03 - Add the green chiles, chicken, chili powder, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes or so, then give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
04 - If you prefer a thinner soup, add more stock. If you'd like it thicker, stir in a splash of heavy cream.
05 - Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with cilantro, extra cheese, and tortilla strips if you want.

# Notes:

01 - Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
02 - If cooking chicken yourself, season it well beforehand.
03 - The thickness can easily be adjusted with stock or cream.