Chicken Cheese Soup
Creamy and hearty, this Chicken Cheese Soup combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a cheesy, buttery base. Perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, its rich flavors and smooth texture make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover sliced carrots, sliced onion, and celery with water and simmer until tender.
- Bring the 12 chicken bouillon cubes and 2 quarts of water to a boil, ensuring the bouillon cubes are dissolved.
- Melt 1 1/2 cups of butter in a saucepan; add 1 1/2 cups of flour gradually, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add 1 cup of the boiling water with bouillon to the butter-flour mixture, stirring quickly, then add remaining mixture to the water mixture.
- Stir thoroughly to combine and add this mixture to the vegetable mixture without draining the vegetables.
- Add the Cheez Whiz to the soup and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add peas to the soup.
- Stir in cooked, cubed chicken breasts.
- Add crumbled cooked bacon slices.
- Simmer the soup for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk to the soup. If you prefer a healthier alternative, substitute the Cheez Whiz with shredded cheddar cheese. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. Adjust the thickness by adding more or less flour based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Cheese Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This hearty soup also pairs beautifully with a light fruit salad or steamed vegetables. For a comforting twist, serve alongside the American recipes like Healthy Oven-Fry Chicken to create a well-rounded dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a little water or broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cheese Soup contains roughly 1877 calories, with 35g protein, 279g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (235% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. However, the texture may change slightly, so consider adding a bit more liquid if it thickens too much overnight.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is not recommended for this soup as the cheese can change texture upon thawing. If you do freeze it, make sure to store it in an airtight container and consume within 2-3 months. Reheat slowly on the stove, adding cream or broth to improve texture.
What can I use instead of chicken breast?
You can substitute chicken breast with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or use shredded chicken thighs for added flavor. Additionally, turkey or even plant-based chicken alternatives work well if you're looking for a different protein source.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).