Description
This creamy chicken soup is loaded with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a hint of ranch seasoning. It’s a one-pot meal that’s both comforting and addictive, hence the name “crack” chicken soup!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups (280 g) cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups (150 g) frozen or fresh spinach (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Optional garnish:
- Chopped green onions or parsley
- Extra crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the broth and chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded chicken and ranch seasoning mix.
- Incorporate the cream cheese:
- Add the cubed cream cheese to the pot. Stir frequently until it melts and the soup is smooth.
- Stir in the milk and cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk (or heavy cream) and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Add bacon and spinach (optional):
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and spinach, if using. Let the soup simmer gently for 5-10 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Season and serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with black pepper (and salt, if needed). Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or extra bacon crumbles.
Notes
- Vegetable options: Add diced carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Thickening tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup while simmering.
- Low-carb option: Skip the optional spinach and use heavy cream instead of milk for a keto-friendly version.