Indulge your taste buds in a warm embrace with our Cheesy Chicken Bacon Soup, a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheddar, savory chicken, and crispy bacon. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a hearty meal, this soup is not just a recipe—it's an experience! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a bowl of pure bliss that will have your family asking for seconds. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will tantalize your senses? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic over medium heat until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring to a gentle simmer, ensuring the onions and garlic are well incorporated.
- Add pre-cooked and shredded chicken breasts to the simmering broth, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth and creamy base for the soup.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and integrated into the soup.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Just before serving, sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top of the soup for added texture and flavor.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with additional cheese or bacon bits if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, consider cooking and shredding the chicken in advance. You can even use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut without sacrificing flavor!
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- Bacon Boost: For extra crunch, try using thick-cut bacon and cook it until crispy. The added texture will elevate your soup to the next level.
- Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have the time; this will enhance the flavors even more. Just remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish Galore: Get creative with toppings! Fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or even a dollop of sour cream, can add a fresh finish to your delicious soup.
- Storage Savvy: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later enjoyment. Just reheat gently on the stove when you're ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 130mg
