Prepare the Base: In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive or avocado oil. Once hot, add 1 diced white onion, 1 diced poblano or jalapeño pepper, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Add Spices: After 3 minutes, mix in 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 2 teaspoons of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Stir until well combined and fragrant, then transfer this mixture to your slow cooker.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add 2 cups of frozen corn, 2 medium peeled and diced russet potatoes, 1 diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, 2 tablespoons of adobo sauce, 1 pound of chicken breast, and 6 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken and potatoes are tender.
Incorporate Creaminess: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in 8 ounces of cream cheese or crème fraîche. Make sure it melts fully into the soup for a smooth consistency.
Prepare Turkey Bacon: Cook 6 slices of turkey bacon on the stovetop or in the oven until crispy. Once cooked, crumble or chop for topping.
Serve the Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled turkey bacon, 1/2 cup of cotija cheese, a squeeze of lime, and fresh cilantro if desired. Adjust salt and pepper to taste for that perfect finish!