Delicious & Healthy Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup: Your Go-To Quick, Low-Calorie, High-Protein Comfort Food
Picture this: a chilly winter evening, or perhaps a brisk autumn day, and all you crave is a substantial, warming bowl of soup. But not just any soup – you desire something wholesome, incredibly satisfying, and effortlessly simple to prepare. Look no further than this fantastic Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup. Unlike traditional creamy soups that demand hours of simmering, this recipe comes together in a flash, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without the wait. Bursting with lean protein, it’s designed to keep you feeling full and energized, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lifestyle, even if you’re following a specific dietary plan like Weight Watchers.
This delightful Chicken Bacon Soup evokes the rich, heartwarming qualities of a classic creamy potato soup, but with a clever, lightened-up twist. The secret to its luscious, velvety base lies in the use of unsweetened almond milk, a fantastic alternative to full-fat cow’s milk that significantly reduces the calorie and fat content without sacrificing creaminess. Generous amounts of shredded chicken and crispy bacon crumbles are folded in, providing a robust protein boost that makes this soup incredibly filling. To achieve that signature decadent texture, a touch of light cream cheese is incorporated, melting seamlessly into the broth and adding an extra layer of richness. This recipe is so good, you’ll want to make a large batch; it freezes beautifully, ensuring you have a ready supply of delicious, wholesome comfort food for those busy weeknights or unexpected cold snaps.
For those seeking more quick, easy, and healthy meal ideas, especially if you’re mindful of your nutritional intake, be sure to explore a variety of other soup recipes. You’ll find a wealth of inspiration that proves healthy eating can be both simple and incredibly flavorful. For more quick and easy soups, check out these 27 Delicious Weight Watcher Soup Recipes.
Why This Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup Belongs In Your Recipe Rotation
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that supports their health and wellness goals. Here are three compelling reasons why you should add this delicious soup to your culinary repertoire today:
You can enjoy a generous bowl of soup for under 200 calories.
Many creamy soups, especially those featuring rich ingredients like bacon and cheese, can easily tip the scales at 400-500 calories per serving. This can make them feel like an indulgent treat rather than a regular healthy meal. However, our Chicken Bacon Soup redefines creamy comfort by offering a deeply satisfying and hearty bowl for under 200 calories. This incredible feat is achieved by intelligently selecting ingredients like unsweetened almond milk and lean protein sources. This means you get to savor all the decadent flavors and textures you crave, without the guilt or the excessive calorie count. It’s truly a wholesome and light option that won’t derail your dietary goals.
Each cup boasts an impressive 17 grams of lean protein.
Protein is essential for keeping you full, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall health. This recipe shines as a high-protein soup, delivering a substantial 17 grams of protein per cup. It’s the perfect blend of creamy indulgence and nutritional power, offering the best of both worlds. The combination of chicken and bacon, even in its lightened form, provides a robust protein punch that will keep hunger at bay for hours. If you’re someone who often struggles to incorporate enough chicken into your diet, this flavorful and comforting soup offers a delicious and easy way to increase your intake, making healthy eating both enjoyable and effortless.
You can whip up this entire meal in about half an hour.
In our fast-paced lives, time is a precious commodity, especially when it comes to preparing healthy meals. This Chicken Bacon Soup is a true savior for busy individuals, requiring only about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Imagine walking through your door after a long day and having a steaming hot, homemade, and nutritious dinner ready to serve in less than an hour. Its quick preparation time makes it an absolute winner for those hectic weeknights when you need a speedy yet wholesome meal. No more resorting to unhealthy takeout; this soup offers a homemade solution that’s both efficient and incredibly rewarding.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup
Crafting this delightful soup requires a few simple, accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting and healthy dish:
- 2.5 T unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 t parsley flakes
- 1/4 t garlic powder
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 2 cups unsweetened original almond milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1.5 cups (6 oz) cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 T light cream cheese
- 2 T bacon crumbles
How to Master Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup (Step by Step Guide)
Follow these easy steps to create a rich, creamy, and satisfying chicken bacon soup that tastes like it simmered all day:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering, add the parsley flakes and garlic powder. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately add the diced onions and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and softened, but not browned. This step builds the foundational flavor of your soup.
- Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions and butter mixture. Stir vigorously with a whisk to incorporate the flour thoroughly, creating a thick paste known as a roux. Continue to cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it just begins to turn a very light golden brown. This cooking time is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste and ensuring a smooth, lump-free soup. The whisk will be your best friend here to break up any flour clumps.
- Slowly, and while continuously whisking, pour in the unsweetened almond milk and chicken broth. Adding the liquids gradually and whisking constantly prevents lumps and ensures a perfectly smooth base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the soup to cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening. During this time, the soup will gradually thicken to a beautiful, creamy consistency.
- Once the soup has reached your desired thickness, season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, stir, and then taste. Adjust as needed, remembering that bacon crumbles also contribute saltiness.
- Finally, stir in the cooked, shredded chicken, the crispy bacon crumbles, and the light cream cheese. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cream cheese has completely melted and is fully incorporated, creating an even richer and silkier texture. This final simmer ensures all the flavors meld together perfectly. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade creamy chicken bacon soup! This recipe makes 4 (1 cup) hearty servings.
This recipe yields 4 satisfying servings. Here’s the approximate nutrition information per 1 cup serving: Calories 198, Fat 13 g, Saturated fat 6 g, Carbs 4 g, Fiber .71 g, Sugars 1.2 g, Sodium 401 mg, Protein 17 g.
Weight Watchers Points for This Recipe
For those tracking with Weight Watchers, this Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup is an excellent low-point option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Here’s a breakdown of the points per ingredient, contributing to its healthy profile:
- 2.5 T butter: 15 points
- Diced onions: 0 points
- Parsley flakes: 0 points
- Garlic powder: 0 points
- All Purpose flour: 3 points
- Unsweetened Original almond milk: 2 points
- Chicken broth: 0 points
- Salt and pepper: 0 points
- Shredded chicken: 0 points
- Light cream cheese: 1 point
- Bacon crumbles: 2 points
Based on the WW app recipe creator, this Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup comes in at 6 points per serving, making it an incredibly smart choice for a filling meal.
If you’re using an older version of WW, check out these points below:
3 freestyle, 4sp or 4pp per serving.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Chicken Bacon Soup
One of the best things about this Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup is its versatility. While delicious as is, it serves as an excellent base for various culinary explorations. Don’t hesitate to get creative and adapt it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand:
- Transform it into a Hearty Chowder: For a touch of sweetness and added texture, incorporate about 1 cup of sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained) along with the shredded chicken. This instantly turns it into a comforting Chicken Bacon Corn Chowder, reminiscent of coastal flavors.
- Build a Traditional Roux: If you enjoy the depth of flavor that classic mirepoix offers, add some finely diced carrots and celery along with the onions in the first step. Let them cook until tender before adding the flour to create a more traditional and aromatic base for your soup.
- Experiment with Lean Proteins: This soup is incredibly adaptable to different protein sources. Instead of chicken, consider using extra lean ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken for a different flavor profile. You could even introduce seafood like cooked shrimp in the last few minutes of simmering for a unique twist. For a white chicken chili flair, add a can of green chilis along with the chicken.
- Boost the Veggie Content: To add more nutrients and substance, stir in about 1 cup of frozen, chopped broccoli florets during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering. Spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers would also be excellent additions.
- Elevate Your Toppings: The right toppings can take your soup to the next level. Beyond extra cheese and bacon crumbles, consider a dollop of Greek yogurt or a few slices of fresh avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats. A sprinkle of fresh chives or cilantro can also brighten the flavors.
- Fresh Herb Power: While parsley flakes work well, using fresh parsley, chopped and stirred in right at the end of the cooking process, will provide a more vibrant, fresh flavor and a beautiful green garnish.
- Add a Kick of Heat: If you prefer your soup with a bit of a spicy kick, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes once the soup has finished cooking, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: For an even richer and cheesier soup, consider stirring in a small amount of shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses along with the cream cheese. This will make it extra decadent!
Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Bacon Soup
Making this creamy chicken bacon soup is straightforward, but a few insider tips can elevate your experience from good to absolutely fantastic. These suggestions will help you save time, enhance flavor, and make the most out of your homemade soup:
- Pair with Homemade Garlic Sticks: Nothing complements a warm bowl of soup quite like fresh-baked bread. For a quick and easy side, grab a 7.5-ounce package of Pillsbury tea biscuits. Melt 2 teaspoons of butter and gently roll out each biscuit with your hands to form elongated sticks. Arrange them on a sprayed cookie sheet. Brush the tops of the biscuit sticks with melted margarine (or a little more butter) and sprinkle generously with garlic powder and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Bake according to the Pillsbury package directions. Each stick typically accounts for about 1 Weight Watchers point or 2 SmartPoints.
- Smart Freezing for Future Meals: This soup is a freezer superstar! It holds up incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prepping. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature. Then, portion individual servings into sturdy Ziploc freezer bags or airtight containers. For freezer bags, lay them flat in the freezer; this not only saves space but also allows for quicker thawing. Properly stored, your soup will remain fresh and delicious in the freezer for up to six months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Time-Saving Shortcut for Chicken: Preparing shredded chicken can sometimes be the most time-consuming part of this recipe. To expedite the process, consider purchasing pre-shredded rotisserie chicken breasts, often found in the deli or bakery section of most grocery stores. This simple shortcut can shave significant time off your preparation. Alternatively, if you frequently cook chicken, shred and portion out 6-ounce servings into freezer bags. This way, you’ll have pre-prepped chicken ready to go whenever the craving for this soup strikes.
- Adjusting for Lower Points/Fat: If you’re looking to further reduce the points or fat content, you can experiment with using a low-fat margarine or a butter substitute instead of real butter for the roux. While it might slightly alter the richness and creamy mouthfeel, it will still result in a nutritious and satisfying meal that aligns with your dietary goals. Another option is to use an extra lean variety of bacon or turkey bacon for the crumbles.
- Achieving the Perfect Creaminess: To ensure your soup is perfectly smooth, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it. This helps it melt and incorporate seamlessly without clumping. Whisking continuously when adding the milk and broth is also key to preventing a lumpy texture.
- Enhancing Depth of Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, consider sautéing a finely minced clove of fresh garlic with the onions. While garlic powder is convenient, fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic layer that’s truly delightful.
Explore More Hearty & Healthy Soup Recipes
If you loved this Creamy Chicken Bacon Soup, you’re sure to enjoy these other wholesome and flavorful soup recipes that are perfect for any time of year:
- Weight Watchers Vegetable Soup (Zero Points!) – A vibrant and nutritious soup packed with vegetables, perfect for a guilt-free meal.
- Weight Watchers White Chicken Chili – A creamy, zesty chili that’s both satisfying and light, a fantastic alternative to traditional chili.
- 21 Low Sodium Soup Ideas – A collection of delicious soup recipes designed to help you manage your sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
Chicken Bacon Soup
Ingredients
- 2.5 T unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 t parsley flakes
- 1/4 t garlic powder
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 2 cups unsweetened original almond milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1.5 cup cooked, shredded chicken, about 6oz
- 1 T light cream cheese
- 2 T bacon crumbles
Instructions
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In a large pot on the stove, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the parsley and garlic powder and stir until fragrant, then add the diced onions. Let the onions cook, still on medium, for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
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Add the all-purpose flour and stir well with a whisk to create a thick roux, ensuring there are no clumps. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture just starts turning a light brown, cooking out the raw flour taste.
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Slowly whisk in the almond milk and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.
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Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
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Next, stir in the shredded chicken, bacon crumbles, and light cream cheese. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes while the cream cheese melts and incorporates completely, making the soup extra rich and creamy. This recipe makes 4 (1 cup) servings. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.