Cozy Keto Crack Chicken Soup: A New Comfort Favorite
The Memory Behind This Treat
I remember one chilly evening when I stumbled upon the concept of Keto Crack Chicken Soup. It was one of those days where you crave warmth and something hearty to chase away the cold. My daughter and I had just come back from a long walk in the Asheville woods, our cheeks pink from the crisp air, and all I could think about was a comforting bowl of soup. As I rummaged through the kitchen, I found some leftover chicken, a package of cream cheese, and a fresh bunch of dill my neighbor had gifted me. Inspiration struck like a warm hug.
The first time I made this soup, it was a complete experiment. I cooked the bacon until it was perfectly crispy—my kitchen filled with that irresistible aroma. As I added the garlic and onion to the pot, their fragrance mingled with the bacon grease, creating a symphony of scents that immediately had my stomach growling. My daughter peeked over my shoulder, curious about this new creation, and I assured her, “Trust me, this one’s going to be a winner.” And indeed, as we sat down to enjoy our first spoonfuls, the rich, creamy flavors combined beautifully with the tender chicken and melted cheese, making it an instant favorite.
This soup quickly became our go-to dish on cold nights, a deliciously cozy reminder of how even simple ingredients can create something magical. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and comfort, much like those cherished family moments around the dinner table.
How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)
Making Keto Crack Chicken Soup is as delightful as a cozy hug in a bowl. Start by crisping up diced bacon in your trusty Dutch oven. This forms the savory backbone of our soup. Once the bacon is ready, remove it with a slotted spoon, leaving behind that delicious bacon grease. It might be tempting to snack on those crispy bits, but trust me, they make a perfect garnish later!
Next, add a tablespoon of butter to the pot, letting it melt before tossing in the diced onion. Cook until the onions are translucent, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness. A quick sauté of garlic follows, creating a fragrant base. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits—these are flavor gold! Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and chives. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Bring your pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. This is where the magic happens. Add the shredded chicken to the bubbling broth and let it soak up all those flavors. Whisk in softened cream cheese until it melts smoothly, followed by a generous cup of shredded cheddar. Toss in a few handfuls of baby spinach, adding not only nutrients but a lovely pop of color. Just before serving, stir in heavy cream for that extra touch of velvety richness. Top with bacon and a sprinkle of scallions to serve. Enjoy a bowl of this Keto Crack Chicken Soup, and feel the warmth spread from your heart to your toes.
Make-Ahead & Storage
One of the delightful things about Keto Crack Chicken Soup is how well it lends itself to making ahead. You can prepare a big batch over the weekend and enjoy comforting bowls throughout the week. Simply follow the recipe as usual, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for those busy weekdays when you need a quick, satisfying meal.
For those who love planning ahead, this soup is also freezer-friendly. Once cooled, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stove over medium heat. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh scallions and crispy bacon on top for that just-cooked flavor!
If you’re new to reheating creamy soups, keep in mind that they can sometimes separate. A quick whisk can bring it back to its cozy, creamy consistency. You might also want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much during storage. Remember, a little adjustment can bring it back to its original glory!
Best Ingredients & Party Variations
When crafting the perfect Keto Crack Chicken Soup, selecting top-quality ingredients is key. Let’s start with the chicken—opt for pasture-raised, shredded chicken for tender, juicy bites. For the cheese, a sharp cheddar adds depth, while cream cheese ensures that creamy texture we all crave. Fresh baby spinach brings a pop of color and nutrients, seamlessly blending with the rich flavors of garlic and onion. And don’t forget the bacon! Crispy, thick-cut bacon not only adds a smoky flavor but also a delightful crunch as a topping.
Now, let’s talk variations because a dish this good should be party-ready! Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Hosting a gathering? Create a soup bar with toppings like extra cheese, chopped jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream. You could also swap in kale for spinach if you’re feeling adventurous or want to use what’s in your fridge.
For those friends not bound by keto, serve this soup alongside some warm, crusty keto-friendly bread. It’s all about keeping flavors flexible while still cozy and comforting. No matter the occasion, this soup is sure to be a hit, warming hearts and bellies alike!
FAQ’s About Keto Crack Chicken Soup
What is Keto Crack Chicken Soup?
Keto Crack Chicken Soup is a deliciously creamy, low-carb soup loaded with crispy bacon, tender chicken, and melted cheese. It’s a comforting dish that combines savory flavors from garlic, onion, and herbs like dill and chives. The soup is called “crack” because of its addictive taste—once you start, it’s hard to stop! Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup offers rich flavors while keeping carbs in check.
How do you make a soup keto-friendly?
To make a soup keto-friendly, you focus on low-carb ingredients like meats, low-carb vegetables, and high-fat components such as cream and cheese. Avoid using starchy vegetables or thickeners like flour. Instead, you can use cream cheese or heavy cream to achieve that creamy texture. Spices and herbs add depth without adding carbs, keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.
Is Crack Chicken Keto Friendly?
Yes, Crack Chicken is keto-friendly when prepared with low-carb ingredients. The combination of chicken, bacon, and cheese provides plenty of protein and fat, ideal for a ketogenic diet. By using low-carb vegetables and omitting any high-carb fillers, this dish stays within keto guidelines. The rich creaminess comes from cream cheese and heavy cream, making it both comforting and compliant.
What are common mistakes when making keto soup?
One common mistake is accidentally adding high-carb ingredients, such as potatoes or certain thickeners. It’s also easy to overdo it on the sodium if you’re not using low-sodium broth. Another pitfall is not fully melting the cream cheese, which can result in a lumpy texture. Ensuring a smooth, even melt and tasting for seasoning adjustments can help you avoid these issues, leading to a perfect bowl every time.
Conclusion
There you have it—a bowl of Keto Crack Chicken Soup that’s not just a meal, but a hug in a bowl. Making this soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly day. It’s these little moments in the kitchen that fill our homes with love and laughter. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet meal alone, this soup brings a comforting warmth that’s sure to create special memories.
I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of keto cooking. With every spoonful, you’ll discover that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. So, gather your loved ones, serve up this delicious delight, and watch as everyone comes together around the table.
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PrintCozy Keto Crack Chicken Soup: A New Comfort Favorite
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 1 pot 1x
Description
Keto Crack Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful soup packed with crispy turkey bacon, tender chicken, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
4 slices turkey bacon, diced
1 tablespoon butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/2 teaspoon dried chives
Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
4 cups cooked shredded chicken
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup heavy cream
Sliced green scallions for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook diced turkey bacon in a Dutch oven until crispy, then remove with a slotted spoon, leaving turkey olive oil.
2. Add butter to the pot and melt. Stir in onions, cook for 3 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 20 seconds.
3. Pour in chicken broth, scrape up browned bits, and season with garlic powder, onion powder, dill, chives, salt, and pepper.
4. Add a bay leaf, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in shredded chicken, cook for 5 minutes, then add cream cheese and whisk until melted. Stir in shredded cheese.
6. Add spinach and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in heavy cream and cook for 1 minute.
7. Taste, adjust seasonings, remove bay leaf, and top with turkey bacon and scallions before serving.
Notes
For a thicker soup, reduce chicken broth to 3 cups.
Use smoked turkey bacon for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 309 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 292 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 96 mg