chicken bacon cheddar soup

This Chicken Bacon Cheddar Soup is a rich and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Preparation Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Intensity: Easy

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the cubed chicken to the pot with the bacon fat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add butter to the pot and melt. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

1. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to deglaze the pot.
2. Add smoked paprika and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add Cream, Cheese, and Chicken

1. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
2. Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheddar cheese. Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Cheese: Use high-quality cheddar cheese and shred it yourself for the smoothest texture. Pre-shredded cheese may result in a grainy soup.
• Thickening: For a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the broth by ½ cup.
• Make Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)**

• Calories: 420
• Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 30g

This Chicken Bacon Cheddar Soup is a cozy, creamy bowl of goodness that combines all your favorite flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it’s a recipe you’ll make on repeat!