Heat butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in jalapeño, paprika, and cumin. Cook for another minute to wake up the spices. Do you smell that? That’s flavor calling.
Add chicken and cook until it’s mostly cooked through, 5–7 minutes. It doesn’t have to be perfect; you’ll finish it later.
Pour in chicken broth and corn. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, so the flavors mingle like old friends at a kitchen party.
Stir in half-and-half or cream. Let it simmer lightly for 2–3 minutes, just until warmed through. Do not boil after adding dairy, or it’ll curdle—trust me on this.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Serve hot with your chosen topping and enjoy the cozy bowl that somehow tastes like summer and comfort at once.