Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

This creamy Crack Chicken Soup is a delightful dish perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends. With its rich, cheesy flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. The unique combination of chicken, Turkey Bacon, and creamy goodness makes it an instant hit at any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: This soup is packed with cheesy goodness that satisfies your taste buds.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner, lunch, or as a meal prep option for the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this deliciously creamy soup.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean proteins and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering creamy Crack Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Soup Pot
• Slotted Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: Ideal for even heat distribution and perfect for simmering soups.
• Slotted Spoon: Great for removing cooked Turkey Bacon while keeping the grease in the pot for added flavor.

Ingredients

This creamy Crack Chicken Soup recipe is loaded with incredible cheesy flavor! It’s the perfect winter comfort food, prepared with Turkey Bacon, chicken, cheese, spinach, and ranch seasoning.

For the Soup Base:

• 4 slices Turkey Bacon (diced)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 to 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried dill weed
• ½ teaspoon dried chives
• Salt and fresh ground pepper (to taste)
• 1 bay leaf

For the Creamy Elements:

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 ounces package cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 to 4 cups baby spinach
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Sliced green scallions (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook diced Turkey Bacon to a crisp in a Dutch Oven or soup pot. Remove Turkey Bacon from pot with a slotted spoon, leaving Turkey Bacon grease in the pot.

Step 2: Saute the Aromatics

Add butter to the pot and melt over medium-high heat. Stir in onions and cook for 3 minutes; then stir in garlic and cook for 20 seconds.

Step 3: Stir in the Broth and Season the Soup

Add chicken broth and scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, chives, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Add bay leaf and bring to a boil; lower heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese

Stir in shredded chicken and cook for 5 minutes. Add cream cheese and whisk it continuously until completely melted and combined. Stir in the shredded cheese; whisk until melted and thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Stir in Spinach and Cream

Add baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and cook for 1 minute.

Step 7: Finish

Taste the soup for seasonings and adjust accordingly. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Step 8: Serve

Remove your creamy Crack Chicken Soup from heat. Top it with scallions and previously prepared Turkey Bacon before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. It pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its comforting nature.

Garnish with Fresh Scallions

• Slice green scallions and sprinkle them on top before serving for a fresh crunch.

Add Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough works perfectly.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• A light garden salad complements the richness of the soup and adds freshness to your meal.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible container full of flavor.

Enjoy with Rice or Quinoa

• A scoop of rice or quinoa can bulk up the meal and soak up the creamy broth nicely.

How to Perfect Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Creamy Crack Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Use High-Quality Broth: Choose low-sodium chicken broth for a cleaner taste without overwhelming saltiness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust spices and seasoning to your preference for a personalized flavor.
• Shred Your Chicken: Shredding cooked chicken ensures it mixes well into the soup, providing consistent flavor in every spoonful.
• Melt Cheese Gradually: Adding cream cheese slowly allows it to melt smoothly into the soup, preventing clumps.
• Add Spinach at the End: Stirring in spinach just before serving keeps it bright and vibrant, offering more nutrients.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Crack Chicken Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   This crispy delight complements the creamy soup perfectly, adding extra flavor.

2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and tang, balancing the richness of the soup.

3. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition without overshadowing the main dish.

4. Cheese Quesadillas
   Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese offer a deliciously cheesy side that matches well with soup.

5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture of the soup.

6. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins make an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Crack Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the spinach: Cooking spinach too long makes it wilted and loses its vibrant color. Stir it in just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
• Using cold cream cheese: Adding cold cream cheese can cause clumping. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Neglecting to scrape the pot: Forgetting to scrape the bottom of the pot can miss out on delicious browned bits. Make sure to deglaze your pot after sautéing aromatics for added flavor.
• Not measuring broth: Using too much or too little broth affects the soup’s texture. Always measure accurately for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Crack Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Crack Chicken Soup?

Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is a flavorful and hearty soup made with chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and seasonings, perfect for cold weather.

Can I make Creamy Crack Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. It tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

How can I customize Creamy Crack Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery, switch up the cheese types, or use different herbs based on your preference!

Is there a low-carb version of this soup?

Yes! You can reduce carbs by omitting any starchy ingredients and focusing on protein-rich components like chicken and cheese.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping! Experiment with various veggies or spices to tailor it to your taste. Dive into this comforting recipe today!