Crack Chicken Soup is a creamy, hearty, and irresistibly delicious dish packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a savory broth. This easy, one-pot soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or family dinners. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a household favorite!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 package (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup (10 g) chopped green onions or fresh parsley
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side).
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese, whisking until the cream cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cheese
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Notes
- Keto-friendly: This soup is naturally low-carb, making it a great option for those on a keto diet.
- Vegetable additions: Add chopped spinach, kale, or broccoli for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing soup for a gathering, this recipe has you covered. Try it today and experience the creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!