Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Soup with Bacon and Cheese 🥣🥓🧀

1. Introduction

When it comes to comfort-food, few dishes stand out like a creamy chicken soup. This chicken soup recipe uses a slow cooker to deliver an indulgent, hearty bowl with smoky bacon and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, soul-warming meal. Whether you’re craving a classic chicken soup or want to elevate it with decadent toppings, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

2. Ingredients Needed for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

• 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Chicken Soup in Slow Cooker

Preparing the Bacon and Sautéing Aromatics

Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. This enhances the flavor base for your delicious soup.

Assembling the Soup in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the diced chicken, carrots, celery, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Cooking the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. During the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese to make the soup rich and creamy. Top with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley before serving for added flavor and texture.

Serving the Creamy Chicken Soup

Pour the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, bacon, and herbs as desired. Serve with warm crusty bread, like garlic butter bread rolls, for a complete comfort-food experience.

4. Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Chicken Soup

• For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
• Adjust the amount of cheese to control creaminess and flavor.
• Use cooked leftover bacon or bacon bits for convenience.
• Ensure your slow cooker is at least 6-quart capacity for ample space for ingredients.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

This creamy chicken soup keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if it thickens too much. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months — just reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.

6. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Comfort Food Meal

Pair this flavorful chicken soup with crusty bread, such as our garlic butter bread rolls, for dipping. It also pairs wonderfully with salads or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced, hearty dinner. For a touch of acidity, add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce to brighten flavors.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

Can I make this soup healthier?

Absolutely! Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk to reduce fat content. Using skinless chicken breasts and adding lots of vegetables also boosts the nutritional profile.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

What are some variations to this recipe?

Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat, or incorporate vegetables like peas or corn. You can also swap out cheeses for a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare?

The preparation involves minimal chopping and cooking the bacon. Overall, it takes about 10-15 minutes to assemble, with 6-8 hours of slow cooking.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Making this creamy chicken soup is effortless with a spacious slow cooker, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Use an air fryer to prepare crispy bacon quickly and evenly, saving time and enhancing flavor.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Perfect for cooking bacon or even roasting vegetables for added texture in your soup.

These tools will make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable, ensuring restaurant-quality results at home.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the irresistibly creamy, flavorful goodness of this chicken soup with bacon and cheese. Its ease of preparation in a slow cooker makes it an ideal comfort-food for busy days or relaxed weekends. This hearty dish offers rich flavors, satisfying textures, and plenty of opportunities for customization. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and indulge in a bowl of cozy, creamy chicken soup that will delight your taste buds — time and time again!

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