My Family’s Favorite Creamy Chicken Soup
This creamy chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food! Loaded with tender chicken, melty cream cheese, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a touch of ranch flavor, it’s a 30-minute meal your whole family will love.
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The Star:
- Bacon: 4 slices, diced – adds smoky crunch.
For Richness:
- Butter: 1 tablespoon unsalted – the flavor foundation.
Fresh Vegetables:
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced – for sweetness.
- Celery: 2 ribs, diced – for crunch.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – for depth.
- Baby Spinach: 3 cups, chopped – for color and nutrition.
The Base:
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups, low sodium – controls the salt level.
- Ranch Mix: 2 tablespoons – the secret to addictive flavor.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground.
Protein:
- Chicken: 4 cups, shredded – rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
Creamy Elements:
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, cubed and softened – for ultimate creaminess.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded sharp – adds bold flavor.
- Heavy Cream: ⅓ cup – makes it silky smooth.
Pretty Garnishes:
- Extra shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and fresh parsley.
Let’s Make Your Soup!
1. Start with the Bacon:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the diced bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
2. Build the Flavor Base:
- Add butter to the reserved drippings.
- Sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Create Your Soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth, ranch mix, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the shredded chicken and simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
4. Make It Creamy:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese and cheddar until melted and smooth.
5. Finish with Fresh Touches:
- Add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted.
- Stir in the heavy cream for a final touch of silkiness.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, extra cheddar, and a sprinkle of parsley.
Keeping It Fresh
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream to restore its texture.
- Freezing: While possible, note that cream-based soups may separate when thawed.
Make It Your Own
- Add Egg Noodles: For a heartier meal.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the noodles and load up on more veggies.
My Secret Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It’s quick, easy, and flavorful.
- Homemade Ranch Mix: Combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried chives, and salt.
- Cream Care: Heat gently after adding cream to avoid curdling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for saving time and effort.
How Can I Make My Own Ranch Seasoning?
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried chives, and salt for a quick homemade version.
Will This Soup Freeze Well?
Cream-based soups may separate when frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, but the soup will be slightly less rich. Full-fat cream cheese melts more smoothly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions.
This creamy chicken soup is sure to become a new family favorite. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a quick and satisfying meal!