If you’re on the hunt for a heartwarming and satisfying meal, look no further than this Chicken Alfredo Soup with Parmesan and Bacon! Imagine the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce merging with tender chicken and the crispy goodness of bacon, all mingling in a warm, comforting bowl. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup is not just easy to make but bursting with flavor, making it a sure favorite for dinners with family or friends.
Budget Information
This delicious Chicken Alfredo Soup will cost you approximately $18.00 to make, serving about 6 people. That breaks down to just $3.00 per serving—now that’s a fantastic deal for such a comforting dish!
Why This Recipe Works
This Chicken Alfredo Soup is the epitome of comfort food. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s hard not to fall in love with every spoonful! The alfredo sauce provides a silky base while the combination of bacon and Parmesan adds depth to the dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover rotisserie chicken, saving time and making sure you’re not wasting food. The ease of preparation lets you focus on what really matters: enjoying great moments around the table with loved ones.
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
To whip up this delightful soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups chicken broth ($1.50)
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts ($8.00)
- 10 oz cooked, shredded chicken ($2.00)
- 1 can (284ml) low-fat cream of chicken soup ($1.00)
- ¾ cup light Alfredo sauce ($2.00)
- 1 cup almond milk or 1% skim milk ($0.75)
- ½ lb cooked Oscar Mayer Center Cut bacon (6 slices) ($3.00)
- 5 tablespoons butter ($0.75)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic ($0.50)
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour ($0.10)
- ½ cup milk ($0.25)
- 3 cups shredded Parmesan cheese ($3.00)
- 4 oz cream cheese (cubed) ($1.00)
- 1 tablespoon bacon bits for garnish ($0.50)
- Additional spices: black pepper, dried parsley ($0.10)
Feel free to mix it up! Use turkey instead of chicken for a twist, or try a vegan cream cheese alternative if you want it dairy-free.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create a soul-warming batch of Chicken Alfredo Soup:
Step 1: First things first, cook the bacon! In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy—about 15 to 20 minutes should do the trick. You’ll want to keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Once it’s beautifully golden, drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble it for later use.
Step 2: Now, grab your largest crockpot and pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. To that, add the cream of chicken soup and mix everything together. It’s a bit like making a magical potion; the flavors will meld beautifully as you stir. Next, add in the cooked shredded chicken, light Alfredo sauce, almond milk, butter, garlic, and flour. Mix those ingredients until they are well combined.
Step 3: At this stage, it’s time to add the remaining ¾ cup of chicken broth into the pot along with the star players—Parmesan cheese and cream cheese. Stir it all together until smooth and creamy. Trust me, this is the good stuff!
Step 4: Now, toss in that crispy bacon you set aside earlier. Oh boy, just imagine how amazing the smells are right now! Set your crockpot to cook on high for 30 minutes, then drop the temperature to low and let it simmer for an hour and a half. Patience is key—the longer it cooks, the more flavors blend together!
Step 5: Finally, gather your family, serve the soup warm, and don’t forget to top with a sprinkle of bacon bits if you like! Enjoy your homemade Chicken Alfredo Soup while it’s piping hot!
Nutritional Facts
Each serving of this delectable soup provides:
- Calories: 325
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Chicken Alfredo Soup fresh, allow it to cool before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it around longer, freeze it in portion sizes using silicone muffin trays, then pop the frozen portions into freezer bags. Just be sure to label them! For reheating, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, and add a splash of chicken broth while warming it on the stovetop or in the microwave to restore its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Nothing pairs better with Chicken Alfredo Soup than warm, crusty breadsticks for dipping, or perhaps a light garden salad for a fresh contrast! Sprinkle additional crumbled bacon or Parmesan on top for some extra flair. This meal is cozy enough to be enjoyed on its own, but a side of garlic buttered bread can elevate it to new heights!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have in your pantry or freezer. Want to boost the nutrition? Toss in some spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought rotisserie chicken speeds up the process even more. And remember, never underestimate the power of good seasoning—don’t shy away from adding herbs or your favorite spice blend to make it your own!
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to allow for extra cooking time until the chicken is fully cooked through.
2. Is it possible to make this dairy-free? Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free alfredo sauce.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch in place of all-purpose flour, and ensure your broth and other store-bought ingredients are gluten-free.
4. What type of bacon do you recommend? I love Oscar Mayer Center Cut bacon for its balance of flavor and crispiness, but feel free to use your favorite type!
5. Is Chicken Alfredo Soup freezer-friendly? Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just follow the storage instructions provided to maintain its creamy texture after thawing.
