Creamy Chicken and Bacon Soup

Creamy Chicken and Bacon Soup is the perfect comfort food for colder days or when you’re simply craving something hearty and satisfying. With juicy pieces of chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy base, this soup is both filling and full of flavor. Whether served as a main course or alongside crusty bread, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup brings together all the best parts of comfort food: savory bacon, tender chicken, and a luxuriously creamy texture. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or meal prep, this is a one-pot recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• bacon, chopped
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• olive oil or butter
• onion, chopped
• garlic, minced
• flour (optional, for thickening)
• chicken broth
• heavy cream or half-and-half
• cream cheese
• shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• salt and black pepper
• thyme or Italian seasoning
• spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Add olive oil or butter if needed, then sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture, stirring for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
7. Pour in the cream and return the chicken to the pot. Simmer gently until the soup thickens slightly.
8. Stir in the cooked bacon (reserving some for topping), and add optional cheddar cheese and greens if desired.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs. Serve hot with bacon crumbles on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb: Skip the flour and use cream cheese or a small amount of xanthan gum to thicken.
• Cheesy Option: Add more shredded cheddar or even smoked Gouda for a cheesy bacon-chicken chowder.
• Veggie-Loaded: Add carrots, celery, or corn for more variety and nutrients.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Herb Swap: Use rosemary, parsley, or sage for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months, preferably before adding the cream or cheese.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just add the shredded chicken toward the end and heat through before serving.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative, or skip it entirely for a lighter soup.

Can I make it without flour?

Yes, omit the flour for a thinner soup or use cornstarch or another thickener as a substitute.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but for best texture, freeze it before adding the cream or cheese, then stir them in after reheating.

How can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese amount or skip it entirely.

What other meats can I use?

Turkey or sausage would also work well with the creamy base and bacon flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook the bacon and sauté aromatics first, then add everything except dairy and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low 6–8 hours, stir in dairy before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not with flour, but you can use cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener to make it gluten-free.

How do I make it extra thick?

Simmer uncovered to reduce or stir in additional cheese, cream cheese, or mashed potatoes.

What sides go well with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad are great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Bacon Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, offering rich, savory comfort in every spoonful. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and adaptable to whatever you have in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers warmth and flavor every time.

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