Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add butter to the bacon fat and let it melt. Toss in chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Then, stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken your soup and give it that creamy, velvety texture.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. The soup will start to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Stir in the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the soup simmer for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Add Cream and Milk
Reduce the heat to low and pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring until fully incorporated. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream to avoid curdling.
Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Bacon
For an indulgent touch, add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Sprinkle in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the hot, creamy soup into bowls. Garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Cook Chicken in Advance: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves time.
- Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly; for a thinner soup, add more milk.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, toss in chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, savory, and loaded with bacon and chicken.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spice it up with a dash of hot sauce.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore the creamy, cheesy goodness.
🍲 Serving Suggestion
Pair with warm crusty bread, garlic biscuits, or a side salad for a complete meal. Every spoonful delivers a perfect balance of creamy richness, smoky bacon, and herbaceous ranch flavor.
Pro Tip: Leftovers reheat beautifully on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step version with images and tips, almost like a mini cooking guide, which is great for sharing online or printing.
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