**Introduction**
Warm, comforting, and irresistibly delicious, Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup with Bacon and Parmesan is an ideal dish for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This soup combines the classic flavors of chicken pot pie with the creamy texture of a rich soup, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food and slow-cooked goodness.
**History and Background**
Chicken pot pie is a well-loved dish with roots tracing back to ancient times. The concept of cooking meats and vegetables under pie crusts dates to Roman history. Over centuries, this idea evolved across different cultures, eventually becoming the comfort food we know today in America. Adding soup to the mix adds a delightful twist, melding the warmth of a classic chicken pot pie with the cozy appeal of soup. This innovation suits modern-day cooks who cherish both convenience and tradition. The inclusion of bacon and Parmesan cheese elevates the recipe, offering depth and richness that feel both familiar and exciting.
**Ingredients Breakdown**
1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These provide the protein base of the soup. They cook beautifully in the slow cooker, becoming tender and easy to shred.
2. Chicken Broth: The broth serves as the flavorful liquid backbone of the soup, infusing the dish with a savory depth.
3. Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion): These are traditional pot pie ingredients that add robustness, color, and nutrients to the soup.
4. Garlic: Garlic imparts an aromatic, savory element that enhances the overall flavor.
5. Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): These dried herbs lend the dish an earthy and fragrant notes.
6. Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess and smoothness to the soup, making each spoonful luxuriously rich.
7. All-Purpose Flour and Water: When mixed together, these act as a thickening agent, giving the soup its hearty consistency.
8. Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, ensuring that the flavors are well-balanced and pronounced.
9. Bacon: Cooked and crumbled, the bacon provides a smoky, salty addition, complementing the other flavors in the soup.
10. Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan elevates the savory profile and adds a touch of umami.
11. Biscuit Dough: These form a soft, fluffy topping that echoes the crust of a traditional chicken pot pie.
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, diced carrots, celery, onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will fully cook and the vegetables will become tender.
2. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the soup.
3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour with water, creating a smooth slurry. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker, followed by the heavy cream. Stir to incorporate, and then cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to allow the soup to thicken.
4. Stir in the cooked and crumbled bacon along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed, until it reaches your preferred flavor balance.
5. Cut the biscuit dough into small pieces and gently place them on top of the soup. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for another hour, or until the biscuit dough is fully cooked through and has a light, fluffy texture.
6. Serve the soup hot, ladling it into bowls and enjoying the cozy, comforting flavors.
**Tips and Variations**
– Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms and bacon with smoked tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
– Gluten-Free Variety: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and biscuits to accommodate dietary restrictions.
– Extra Flavor: Add a bay leaf during cooking for more depth, or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
– Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
– Cheese Variation: Swap Parmesan with cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
**Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions**
This slow cooker chicken pot pie soup with bacon and Parmesan packs a punch with approximately 400 calories per serving, offering a satisfying balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It also boasts a good amount of vitamins A and C from the vegetables. Serve this comforting soup with a light side salad or a glass of crisp white wine to complement the rich flavors.
**FAQs**
1. Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely, using precooked chicken is an excellent time-saver. Simply add the shredded chicken to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
2. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to enjoy.
3. How can I speed up the cooking time?
Opt for the high setting on your slow cooker to reduce the initial cooking time to about 3-4 hours.
4. What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
This recipe can also be made on the stovetop. Simmer all ingredients in a large pot and follow the same instructions for thickening and adding the biscuits.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
While the soup itself freezes well, the biscuit topping is best added fresh. Store the soup in an airtight container without the biscuits for up to three months.
**Conclusion**
Indulging in a bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup with Bacon and Parmesan is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of flavors. Its rustic charm, combined with the convenience of slow cooking, makes it a standout recipe suitable for any occasion. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with family and friends. There’s something magical about creating and sharing a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting classic!
