Chicken Bacon Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Chicken bacon soup: just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, crackling fires, and a bowl brimming with comfort. Have you ever craved a dish that’s both hearty and soul-soothing? This recipe delivers precisely that – a creamy, smoky, and utterly delicious experience that will leave you wanting more. Forget bland, forget boring; this is where chicken soup gets a serious upgrade!

While the exact origins of chicken bacon soup are somewhat shrouded in mystery, its appeal is undeniably modern. It’s a delightful fusion of classic chicken soup, a remedy passed down through generations, and the irresistible allure of bacon, a beloved ingredient across cultures. Think of it as a culinary mashup that celebrates both tradition and indulgence.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken and vegetables provide a comforting base, while the crispy bacon adds a smoky depth and satisfying crunch. The creamy broth ties everything together, creating a symphony of taste that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a truly unique and personalized dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend treat, this chicken bacon soup is sure to become a new family favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions

Preparing the Bacon and Aromatics:

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. The goal is to render the fat from the bacon, which will add incredible flavor to the soup.
2. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the bacon grease in the pot – this is liquid gold!
3. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This process, known as sweating the vegetables, helps to release their natural sweetness and create a flavorful base for the soup.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly during this step.

Cooking the Chicken and Building the Broth:

1. Add the cubed chicken to the pot with the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be cooked all the way through at this point, as it will continue to cook in the broth.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will add depth to the soup.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the soup and continue to simmer, covered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Creating the Creamy Base:

1. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help to thicken the soup. Be sure to cook the roux long enough to cook out the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown too much.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the roux is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the soup pot and stir well to combine.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked bacon.
6. Add the frozen corn and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the corn is heated through.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika to your liking. If you want a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Ladle the chicken bacon soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions. These additions can really elevate the soup and add extra layers of flavor and texture. A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy coolness, while shredded cheddar cheese provides a sharp, cheesy bite. Green onions offer a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Soup:

• Use high-quality bacon: The flavor of the bacon is crucial to the overall taste of the soup, so choose a good quality bacon that you enjoy. Thick-cut bacon is a great option.
• Don’t skip the bacon grease: The bacon grease adds a ton of flavor to the soup, so don’t be tempted to drain it all off.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s cooked through and tender.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking: Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• Freeze for later: Chicken bacon soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze some for later. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as mushrooms, peas, or green beans.
• Use different types of potatoes: You can use Yukon gold potatoes or red potatoes instead of russet potatoes.
• Make it dairy-free: To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and milk. You can also use a dairy-free butter substitute.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Variations:

• Smoked Chicken Bacon Soup: Use smoked chicken for an even smokier flavor.
• Creamy Tomato Chicken Bacon Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the soup for a tangy twist.
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup: Add a packet of ranch dressing mix to the soup for a creamy, flavorful soup.
• Chicken Bacon Corn Chowder: Add more corn and a little bit of sugar to the soup for a sweeter, chowder-like consistency.

This Chicken Bacon Soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cold day. It’s packed with flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This chicken bacon soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic with a smoky twist that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful soups, and I’m confident it will become a family favorite in your home, just like it has in mine. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy broth is simply irresistible.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the chicken with cannellini beans or chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative. You could even add some roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a touch of sweetness and added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions:

This soup is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better with some delicious accompaniments. I love serving it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the creamy broth. A grilled cheese sandwich is another classic pairing that’s always a hit. For a lighter meal, try serving it with a side salad. And don’t forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley, and a few extra crispy bacon bits are the perfect finishing touches.

Variations to Explore:

* Creamy Tomato Chicken Bacon Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes and a splash of heavy cream for a richer, tomato-based version.
* Chicken Bacon Corn Chowder: Incorporate some corn kernels and diced potatoes for a heartier, chowder-like soup.
* Spicy Chicken Bacon Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* Smoked Paprika Chicken Bacon Soup: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
* Chicken Bacon and Wild Rice Soup: Add cooked wild rice for a nutty and satisfying texture.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I truly believe that this chicken bacon soup will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or even a potluck with friends and family.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun in the kitchen! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, experiment, and make this recipe your own.

Once you’ve tried it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Happy cooking!