Queso Chicken Bowl (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped.
02 - 1 small onion, minced.
03 - Tortilla strips for topping (if you like).
04 - 1 diced carrot, small pieces.
05 - A pinch of chili seasoning, about 1/2 tablespoon.
06 - 4 ounces green chiles, chopped.
07 - 2 tablespoons of salted butter.
08 - A sprinkle of pepper, roughly 1 teaspoon.
09 - Cooked, shredded chicken - about 2 to 3 cups.
10 - Up to 4 cups of chicken stock.
11 - Fresh cilantro leaves for decoration (optional).
12 - Shredded cheddar cheese, around 2 cups.
13 - Optional: More grated cheese for topping.
14 - Softened cream cheese, about 8 ounces.
15 - Pepper jack cheese, shredded - 2 cups.

# Instructions:

01 - Melt butter in a big pot, toss in onion and carrot, and let them cook until they soften—about 10 minutes. Add garlic at the very end and wait a minute.
02 - Pour broth in the pot, slowly stir in the cream cheese cubes and shredded cheeses until it all melts into a smooth mix.
03 - Stir in the chicken, green chiles, chili powder, and pepper. Let it cook for a few more minutes while tasting to balance flavors.
04 - If you need it thinner, splash in a bit more broth. For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream.
05 - Serve warm and layer with a handful of cilantro, extra cheese, and crunchy tortilla strips if you want.

# Notes:

01 - Using rotisserie chicken saves time and effort.
02 - Homemade chicken works best when seasoned before shredding.
03 - Soup's thickness can be easily adjusted with cream or broth.