Save
This creamy chicken bacon soup is the perfect comfort meal when you need something rich, satisfying, and easy to whip up. It combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and cheesy goodness to warm you from the inside out any day of the week.
I first made this during a chilly weekend and my family loved how comforting and filling it was. Now it’s a go-to recipe whenever I want a quick warm meal that feels special.
Ingredients
- Cooked shredded chicken breast or thighs: provides the hearty protein base, shredded for bite-sized convenience
- Crispy bacon bits: add smoky and savory crunch choose thick-cut bacon for best texture
- Cream cheese: gives the soup a silky, velvety richness without needing heavy cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts smoothly to create a cheesy depth of flavor opt for sharp cheddar to enhance taste
- Chicken broth: low sodium is best to control salt levels and keep flavors balanced
- Garlic powder: adds subtle warmth and depth
- Onion powder: complements the garlic with mild sweetness
- Chopped green onions or chives: fresh garnish that brightens the rich soup
- Optional cream or milk: boosts smoothness if you prefer a creamier version
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Cook chicken breasts or thighs in boiling water or broth until fully cooked and tender. Shred into bite-sized pieces to create the protein base of the soup.
- Build the Broth:
- In a large pot over medium heat, combine the chicken broth, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts smoothly into the broth, forming a rich and silky foundation.
- Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Then add crispy bacon bits to infuse smoky and savory flavors into the soup.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Add the shredded chicken to the cheesy broth mixture. Let the soup simmer gently for a few minutes to meld all flavors together, ensuring every spoonful is warm and comforting.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Finish the soup with chopped green onions or chives for freshness and a vibrant pop of color before serving.
One of my favorite ingredients is the crispy bacon bits. Their smoky flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream cheese, balancing this soup perfectly. I remember making this for a casual dinner party where everyone asked for seconds—bacon has a way of making things instantly crowd-pleasing.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep the soup smooth and prevent the cheese from separating. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to three months.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a lighter smoky touch. Swap cream cheese for mascarpone for a slightly sweeter creaminess. If you prefer less cheese, reduce the cheddar and add a splash of cream or whole milk to keep it silky.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the savory broth. Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. Topping with a little extra crispy bacon and fresh chives always elevates the presentation.
This soup is perfect for cozy nights and quick meals alike. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture with every comforting spoonful.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What type of chicken works best for this soup?
Cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs both work well, with thighs providing a juicier texture.
- → Can I use fresh bacon instead of bacon bits?
Yes, cooking fresh bacon and crumbling it into the soup adds a crispy, smoky flavor.
- → How can I make the soup creamier?
Adding cream or milk enhances smoothness, while cream cheese melts into a rich, velvety base.
- → What cheeses are recommended in this soup?
Cream cheese and sharp cheddar blend nicely, creating a smooth and flavorful melt.
- → Is there a garnish that complements this soup?
Chopped green onions or chives add a fresh, vibrant contrast to the creamy richness.