This Slow Cooker CRACK CHICKEN SOUP has all the comforting flavors of a beloved dish wrapped up in a warm, cozy soup. It’s the perfect hearty meal to enjoy year-round, featuring tender chicken, bacon crumbles, and creamy cheese all simmered in a rich broth packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Creamy: This soup gets its velvety texture from cream cheese and shredded cheddar, making it both rich and satisfying.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: With its savory blend of chicken, bacon, and spices, it wraps you in warmth and flavor with every bite.
- Easy Prep: Thanks to the slow cooker, it’s super straightforward to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum return.
- Perfect for Gatherings: With its great flavors and appealing presentation, it’s a crowd-pleaser sure to impress any guest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This CRACK CHICKEN SOUP comes together with a few simple yet impactful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s layers of flavor and texture, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
- Chicken Breasts: These provide a lean source of protein and become wonderfully tender when slow-cooked.
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: Essential for adding depth of flavor without having to chop fresh onions or garlic.
- Dried Dill Weed and Chives: They give a fresh, herbaceous touch to the creamy base.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky savoriness that pairs perfectly with cheese.
- Cream Cheese: This is what gives the soup its signature creamy finish.
- Cheddar Cheese: For a cheesy, comforting flavor that enhances every bite.
- Baby Kale: Optional, but it adds a pop of color and a dose of greens.
- Scallions: A final garnish that adds freshness and a subtle crunch.
Variations
Feel free to personalize your CRACK CHICKEN SOUP to suit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s incredibly adaptable, offering multiple ways to tweak ingredients according to what you have on hand or what you crave.
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a meat-free version.
How to Make CRACK CHICKEN SOUP
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by placing the chicken breasts directly into your trusty slow cooker. Sprinkle on the onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill, and chives. Rub these seasonings all over the chicken to ensure that every bite will be flavorful.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Create the Broth
While your chicken is seasoning, fry up some crispy bacon. Once cooked, crumble it into the slow cooker and add the leftover bacon grease for extra flavor. Pour the chicken broth around, but not directly over the chicken, to maintain the seasoning’s concentration.
Step 3: Embrace the Creaminess
Add cubed cream cheese into the slow cooker and set your machine to low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 4: Shred and Finalize
Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Place it back in the soup, stir in shredded cheddar and chopped kale, and let everything heat until the cheese is oh-so-melty and the kale is wilted. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tips for Making CRACK CHICKEN SOUP
- Bacon Brilliance: Don’t skip the bacon grease – it adds a depth of flavor that takes the soup to new heights.
- The Right Cheese: For the best melting texture, choose high-quality cheddar cheese blocks and shred them yourself.
- Greens for Balance: Adding kale or baby spinach not only gives a nutritional boost but also beautifully balances out the rich, creamy base.
- Season Smartly: Taste regularly and adjust your seasoning towards the final stages, keeping in mind the salt in your broth and bacon.
How to Serve CRACK CHICKEN SOUP
Garnishes
Top your CRACK CHICKEN SOUP with extra bacon crumbles and a sprinkle of fresh scallions to add texture and a burst of flavor. These garnishes not only enhance the look but also highlight the savory notes of the soup.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side of crusty bread or a light salad. The bread helps to soak up the luscious broth, while a salad can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve your soup in rustic ceramic bowls with a few kale leaves set aside for decoration. Consider a drizzle of roasted red pepper oil for a pop of color and additional flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, make sure the soup has cooled to room temperature to maintain its quality.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To preserve the best flavor and texture, avoid freezing if the soup contains the cheese and kale—add these fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm throughout. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.
FAQs
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Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store it properly, and reheat it just before serving for optimal enjoyment.
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What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative to create a similar creamy texture while still keeping the flavors delightful.
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How can I thicken the soup if needed?
If you’d like a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup, letting it simmer for a few additional minutes.
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Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free—just ensure your chicken broth doesn’t contain any gluten or wheat additives.
Final Thoughts
This CRACK CHICKEN SOUP is an inviting and joyful dish that will surely make its way into your heart and home. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special gathering, its rich, comforting flavors speak volumes. So go ahead, give it a try and savor every warm, delightful spoonful!
