Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy meal, look no further than this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe. It’s everything you want in a soup – rich, velvety, packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a subtle punch of fresh greens to balance the flavors. This recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort that welcomes you home after a long day. Each spoonful melts on your tongue, making it the perfect dish to warm you up and satisfy your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet play crucial roles in crafting the harmony of flavor and texture in this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe. Each one brings something special, from the creamy richness of cream cheese to the smoky crunch of bacon, ensuring a perfectly balanced, satisfying soup.

• 2 pounds chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that becomes tender and juicy as it cooks slowly.
• 1 tablespoon onion powder: Adds a mild, savory depth to the broth without overpowering the delicate chicken flavor.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Provides a warm, aromatic undertone that enhances every bite.
• 1 teaspoon dried dill weed: Brings a subtle herbal brightness that complements the creamy elements.
• 1 teaspoon dried chives: Adds a light oniony hint that melds wonderfully with the soup’s richness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Gives a gentle bite to contrast with the soup’s creamy texture.
• 6 to 8 cups low sodium chicken broth: The warm, flavorful base that keeps the soup silky and hydrating without being salty.
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, plus more for garnish: This smoky, crispy addition adds irresistible texture and depth.
• Bacon grease: A little hit of smoky fat that infuses the soup with richness.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cut in cubes: The secret to that beautifully creamy, dreamy broth.
• 1 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts in perfectly to give extra gooey, cheesy goodness.
• 3 cups chopped baby kale (optional, you can also use baby spinach): Adds a fresh, healthy pop of color and nutrition.
• Chopped scallions: For a bright, fresh garnish that livens up each bowl.

How to Make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts inside your slow cooker. This sets the foundation for the soup’s hearty, protein-rich center.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill weed, dried chives, salt, and pepper all over the chicken breasts, then rub the seasoning gently to coat every surface. This step infuses wonderful layers of flavor as the soup cooks low and slow.

Step 3: Add the broth carefully

Pour the chicken broth around the chicken breasts, not over them. This helps keep the seasoning on the chicken while still creating a luscious cooking liquid for your soup base.

Step 4: Cook the bacon and add it in

While the slow cooker is getting going, fry your bacon until crisp, then crumble it up. Toss both the crispy bacon and the bacon grease into the slow cooker. This smoky addition will give the soup its classic crack chicken flavor that you’ll love.

Step 5: Incorporate the cream cheese

Add the cubed cream cheese right into the slow cooker. As it melts, this particular ingredient will turn the broth irresistibly creamy and luxurious.

Step 6: Slow cook the soup

Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. This gives all the flavors time to meld beautifully while the chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

Step 7: Shred the chicken

Once cooked, remove the lid and transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board. Use two forks or shredding claws to pull the chicken into bite-sized pieces, perfect for a hearty soup experience.

Step 8: Return shredded chicken and add cheddar

Put the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds another layer of creamy, cheesy richness to your soup.

Step 9: Add the greens

Stir in the chopped baby kale (or baby spinach, if you prefer). These greens not only enhance the color and nutrition but also give a pleasant textural contrast.

Step 10: Final cooking

Cover again and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, just until the cheddar is melted, the kale is wilted, and the soup is heated through and utterly inviting.

Step 11: Taste and adjust seasoning

Give your Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe a final taste test. Adjust salt or pepper as needed to suit your palate perfectly.

Step 12: Serve with love

Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure every serving is generously filled with the creamy broth, tender chicken, bacon, and greens.

Step 13: Garnish generously

Sprinkle on more bacon crumbles and chopped scallions for that extra pop of smoky crunch and freshness that makes each bite exciting.

Step 14: Dig in!

Serve immediately and enjoy this soulful bowl of Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe with your favorite people.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like extra crispy bacon and freshly chopped scallions truly elevates the dish, bringing brightness and crunch that contrast beautifully with the creamy texture. Some like a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley to finish it off with flair.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but pairing it with warm, crusty bread or a simple side salad can create a full, balanced meal. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls soak up every last drop of that creamy broth wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out sourdough loaves to impress guests at a casual dinner party. You can also offer toppings buffet-style, inviting everyone to customize their bowl with extra cheese, bacon, or scallions for an interactive meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight meals.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, too! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop to preserve its creamy texture and tender chicken.

Reheating

Reheat leftover soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it becomes too thick, and heat just until warmed through. Avoid boiling to keep the cream cheese and cheddar from separating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor to the soup, although they take about the same cooking time and shred just as nicely.

Is it possible to make this recipe without bacon?

Yes, you can omit the bacon for a milder flavor. Consider adding smoked paprika or a bit of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky notes that bacon provides if you want a similar taste.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

Cream cheese gives the soup its signature creaminess, but you can use sour cream or a blend of cream and a roux as alternatives; just expect a slightly different texture and flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the bacon first, then add all ingredients and cook on the poultry setting for about 12 minutes, followed by a natural release. Be sure to add the cheese after cooking to avoid curdling.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge and freezer, and it’s just as comforting when reheated. Make a big batch and enjoy easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl Recipe is truly a bowl of happiness waiting to happen. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving some solo comfort food, this soup is bound to become a treasured classic in your kitchen. Give it a try—you deserve that creamy, cheesy, cozy goodness.

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