In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add red bell pepper, onions, jalapenos and saute until tender, about 3 minutes.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds longer. Stir in flour, and cook 2 minutes stirring constantly.
While stirring, slowly pour in chicken broth. Add potatoes, bay leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring mixture to a simmer stirring frequently, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, 20 to 25 minutes until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
Add in cooked chicken, corn and half and half and simmer, uncovered 5 minutes longer, stirring occasionally.
Serve warm topped with cooked bacon and optional green onions and cheese.
Notes
*If cooking your own chicken begin with about 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs. You can cook it in the soup with the potatoes, just cook to 165 degrees in center.