Description
A rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying chicken soup loaded with bacon and cheese. This recipe is a family favorite and perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferably)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Ranch seasoning packet (optional, for an extra flavor boost)
Instructions
- 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- 2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 3. Pour in the chicken broth. If using a ranch seasoning packet, stir it in now. Bring the broth to a simmer.
- 4. Stir in the shredded chicken. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- 5. Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and integrated.
- 6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth.
- 7. Gradually stir in the heavy cream. Continue to stir gently until the soup is heated through but not boiling.
- 8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust as needed.
- 9. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore consistency. Avoid boiling. This soup can be frozen, but the creamy texture may change.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g