Creamy Crack Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, creamy soup to soothe the soul, and this Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is the perfect recipe to do just that. With its rich and savory flavor, loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a crowd-pleaser for a family gathering, this soup has got you covered. Ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this delicious Creamy Crack Chicken Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, diced: Adds a crispy, salty flavor that enhances the soup.
• 1 tbsp butter: Used for sautéing the onions and adding richness.
• 1 white onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a depth of flavor with a subtle kick.
• 5 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium): The liquid base that brings all the flavors together.
• 3 bay leaves: Infuses the soup with a subtle herbal note.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlicky flavor.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Complements the diced onions for a fuller flavor.
• 1/2 tsp dried dill: Adds a slightly tangy and aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 tsp dried chives: Brings a mild onion flavor to the mix.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The star of the dish, providing a hearty and protein-rich element.
• 8 oz cream cheese: Creates the creamy texture of the soup.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated: Adds a cheesy, savory flavor.
• 4 cups baby spinach: Provides a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and a pop of color.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds to the soup’s creamy consistency.
• Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh flavor.
• Green scallions, sliced (for garnish): Provides a final touch of color and a mild onion taste.

this RECIPE

Key Spices and Seasonings

The secret to the rich flavor of this soup lies in the combination of key spices and seasonings. Garlic powder and onion powder give the base a robust taste, while dried dill and dried chives add subtle herbal notes. Freshly ground black pepper enhances the overall flavor, and a pinch of salt balances all the ingredients perfectly.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Bacon and Onions

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes crispy and releases its fat. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. This fat will serve as the base flavor for sautéing the vegetables.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the butter to the pot with the bacon fat. Once melted, toss in the diced onion and sauté for around 3 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds, just until fragrant. This step will build a flavorful foundation for the soup.

3. Build the Soup Base

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor! Add the bay leaves, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried chives, salt, and black pepper. Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add the Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors from the broth and spices.

5. Incorporate the Cheeses

Add the cream cheese and grated cheddar cheese to the pot. Whisk continuously until the cheeses have melted and are well combined with the broth, creating a creamy, luscious texture.

6. Finish with Spinach and Cream

Gently stir in the baby spinach and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for about 3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and the soup is heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.

7. Season and Garnish

Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy bacon, freshly chopped dill, and sliced green scallions.

Tips for the Best Creamy Texture

To achieve the perfect creamy texture, make sure to whisk the cheeses thoroughly into the broth. This ensures that the cheese is evenly distributed and prevents any clumps. Additionally, using full-fat cream cheese and cheddar will provide a richer and smoother consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not whisking the cheese properly: This can result in a lumpy texture. Be sure to whisk continuously until the cheese is fully melted.
• Overcooking the spinach: Spinach wilts quickly; only cook it for 2-3 minutes to retain its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
• Forgetting to remove bay leaves: Bay leaves add flavor during cooking but are not pleasant to bite into, so remember to take them out before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a perfect presentation, serve this soup in deep bowls garnished with crispy bacon, chopped fresh dill, and a sprinkle of sliced green scallions. Pair it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or some soft dinner rolls to complement the creamy, savory flavors.

Possible Variations and Swaps

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or cubed tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Lower-Calorie Version: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors tend to meld together even better after sitting for a while.

Q: Can I freeze Creamy Crack Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the heavy cream and spinach. Add them fresh when reheating to maintain the best texture.

Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a different flavor profile and a lighter texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy texture, and delicious combination of chicken, bacon, and fresh spinach, it’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-follow recipes!

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