Ingredients
1 cup diced bacon Adds smoky flavor and a crispy texture that enhances the overall richness of the soup.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter Provides a smooth base for sautéing veggies and helps meld the flavors together.
1 yellow onion, diced Brings a sweet, aromatic depth that forms the foundation of the soup’s savory profile.
2 ribs celery, diced Offers a fresh crunch and subtle earthiness, boosting the nutritional value with vitamins.
2 large carrots, diced Contributes natural sweetness and beta-carotene, making the soup more colorful and healthy.
2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses a pungent, flavorful kick that elevates the taste and adds immune-boosting properties.
6 cups chicken broth Serves as the liquid base, providing moisture and a savory essence that ties everything together.
1 package dry ranch dressing Delivers tangy, herbaceous notes that make this soup uniquely addictive and full of zest.
1 teaspoon black pepper Adds a spicy warmth that balances the creaminess and enhances the overall seasoning.
2 teaspoons parsley Brings a fresh, green herb flavor that brightens the dish and adds a touch of color.
4 cups cooked shredded chicken Supplies the main protein, making the soup hearty and satisfying for a complete meal.
1 cup sour cream Creates a creamy texture and mild tang, helping to thicken the soup without overpowering other flavors.
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed Melts into the soup for ultra-rich creaminess, ensuring a velvety finish that’s hard to resist.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish Provides gooey, cheesy goodness that defines the comforting appeal of this dish.
2 cups baby spinach Adds nutritious greens that wilt into the soup, offering a pop of color and extra vitamins.
Chopped green onion for garnish Tops the soup with a fresh, oniony bite that enhances presentation and flavor.
Instructions
First Step: Start by preparing your ingredients. Dice the bacon, onion, celery, and carrots, then mince the garlic. Having everything chopped ahead makes cooking this cheesy comfort chicken soup faster and less stressful, especially for busy parents.
Second Step: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the 1 cup diced bacon until it’s crispy. This takes about 5-7 minutes and releases flavorful fats that form the base of your crack chicken soup, adding that signature smoky taste.
Third Step: Add the 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 diced yellow onion, 2 diced ribs celery, 2 diced large carrots, and 2 minced cloves garlic to the pot with the bacon. Sauté for 5 minutes until the veggies soften, building layers of flavor for this hearty soup.
Fourth Step: Pour in 6 cups chicken broth, 1 package dry ranch dressing, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 teaspoons parsley. Stir well to combine, then add 4 cups cooked shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld for a rich, comforting soup.
Fifth Step: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 8 ounces cubed cream cheese until it melts smoothly into the broth. This creates the creamy texture that makes your crack chicken soup so irresistible, and it’s a great spot to add low-fat options if needed.
Sixth Step: Mix in 1 cup sour cream and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is fully incorporated and the soup thickens. For a smoother blend, use a whisk here, adapting for dairy-free substitutes if you’re making it vegan-friendly.
Seventh Step: Add 2 cups baby spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the leaves wilt. This step boosts the nutrition and adds a fresh element, perfect for diet-conscious individuals looking to include more greens.
Final Step: Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for a minute. Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onion. This quick and cheesy comfort soup pairs great with bread, and it’s ready in about 30-40 minutes total.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥣 Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
🧅 Adjust vegetable sizes to your liking for texture variation.
🧀 For extra creaminess, add cheese gradually and stir well to melt smoothly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 18 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 32 grams
- Cholesterol: 110 mg