Low Carb Crack Chicken Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken soup, but this Low Carb Crack Chicken Soup takes that coziness to another level. It’s rich, cheesy, savory, and loaded with tender shredded chicken—yet it still fits beautifully into a low-carb lifestyle. What I love most about this soup is that it delivers big flavor without complicated steps. Everything simmers in one pot, and the result is a hearty, satisfying soup that feels indulgent but won’t knock you off your goals.

This recipe has quickly become one of those dishes I return to every time I need something easy, warm, and filling. It’s perfect for busy nights, meal prep days, or anytime you just want a bowl of something that hits the spot with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1 cup chopped spinach (optional but great for extra nutrients)
2–3 green onions, sliced (for topping)

Optional Add-Ins

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum to thicken if needed
Extra cheddar or bacon for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken: Rotisserie chicken, leftover turkey, or cooked, shredded thighs
Cream cheese: Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option
Heavy cream: Half-and-half (carbs increase slightly) or coconut cream for dairy sensitivity
Cheddar: Pepper Jack for a spicy twist, or mozzarella for a milder flavor

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

2. Add broth and seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and add the onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and bring the pot to a gentle simmer.

3. Melt the cream cheese

Lower the heat and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely into the broth. This step ensures the soup becomes thick and creamy without any lumps.

4. Add the chicken, cream, and bacon

Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and cooked crumbled bacon. Let everything simmer together for 10–12 minutes so the flavors blend and the soup thickens slightly.

5. Stir in the cheddar and spinach

Add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped spinach. Keep the heat low and stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup. Spinach will wilt quickly, adding color and nutrients.

6. Taste and adjust

Add more salt, pepper, or seasonings as needed. If you want a thicker soup, sprinkle in xanthan gum a tiny bit at a time while stirring.

7. Serve warm

Ladle into bowls and top with sliced green onions, extra cheese, or crispy bacon. Each bowl is pure comfort.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 6 bowls

Serving Suggestions

This soup is wonderful on its own, but a few extras make it even better:

Serve with a side of low-carb cheddar biscuits.
Top each bowl with extra crispy bacon or shredded cheese.
Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy finish.
Pair with a simple green salad for a full meal.

Storage

Fridge: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Freeze for 2 months (thaw gently before reheating).
Reheat: Warm slowly on the stovetop, stirring often. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This soup reheats wonderfully and actually tastes even better on day two as the flavors deepen.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Creamy soups can sometimes separate, but this one freezes well because of the cream cheese and cheddar.

What if my soup gets too thick?

Just stir in a little chicken broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely—use Pepper Jack cheese or add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

What’s the best substitute for cream cheese?

Neufchâtel cheese works well, or you can use mascarpone for an ultra-creamy texture.

A Cozy Dish Worth Making Again

This Low Carb Crack Chicken Soup delivers everything you want in a comfort dish—creamy broth, savory chicken, smoky bacon, and melty cheese—but without the heaviness of traditional creamy soups. It’s dependable, fast, and deeply satisfying, making it a recipe you’ll reach for anytime you need an easy warm meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Enjoy every spoonful!