Made all in one pot, Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits is perfect for cozy nights when you need a warming dish. This hearty soup features tender chicken, flavorful bacon, and delightful pierogies that create a rich, satisfying meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and comforting taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this soup can be on your table in no time.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax after a busy day.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of rosemary bacon bits and creamy broth makes every spoonful delightful.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot is crucial for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients without overflow.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife will make chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
Ingredients
Made all in one pot…if your night could use some warming soup, this should be it!
For the Soup Base
- 6 slices thick cut bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 6 carrots, chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and black pepper
For Thickening and Creaminess
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken or bone broth
For Protein and Greens
- 2 chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 cups chopped kale
For Creamy Texture and Flavor
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
For the Pierogies
- 28 fresh or frozen mini potato pierogies (1 package)
How to Make Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. During the last minute of cooking, add the rosemary. Remove the bacon from the pot. If there’s excess bacon grease, drain off all but 1 tablespoon.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
To the pot, add olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and thyme. Season with cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Create a Roux
Stir in the butter and flour; cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Add Chicken
Stir in the chicken thighs or breasts. Simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. At this point, you can simmer on low for up to 4-6 hours if desired.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Stir in kale, cream (or milk), and cheddar cheese. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Cook Pierogies
Gently stir in the pierogies and cook for about 8 minutes until they float to the top. If the soup is too thick for your liking, feel free to add additional broth.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the soup topped with crispy rosemary bacon bits and sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm—preferably with a crusty piece of bread!
How to Serve Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
This delicious soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. You can enhance the experience by serving it with a few simple accompaniments.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread: A side of buttery garlic bread adds extra flavor and texture.
Add a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, offering a crunchy contrast.
- Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens can refresh your palate between bites.
Include Toppings
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top for an added savory touch.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra rosemary or thyme for enhanced aroma and taste.
Serve with a Beverage
- Red Wine: A light red wine can complement the flavors of the soup nicely.
- Herbal Tea: For a cozy non-alcoholic option, herbal tea works wonderfully.
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How to Perfect Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
Creating the perfect bowl of this comforting soup is all about technique and attention to detail.
- Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality chicken broth for richer flavor.
- Cook Bacon Crisp: Ensure bacon is crispy to add texture and depth to your soup.
- Shred Chicken Thoroughly: Shredding the chicken finely ensures even distribution in every bowl.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir Gently: When adding pierogies, stir gently to avoid breaking them apart.
- Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors if time permits.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
Pairing your soup with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a hearty addition alongside the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provide a healthy contrast.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are delightful when dipped into the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add nutrition and excitement to your meal.
- Potato Salad: This cold dish offers a refreshing balance to the warm soup.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring crunch and a slightly sweet flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, especially when making a comforting dish like Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the bacon crisping: Not cooking the bacon until it’s crispy can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always ensure the bacon is crisp for the best taste.
- Using dried herbs exclusively: Relying only on dried herbs can dull the flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add vibrant notes that elevate your soup.
- Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry. Monitor cooking time closely to keep it tender and juicy.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to adjust salt and pepper after adding broth can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust to your liking.
- Ignoring dairy additions: Adding cream or milk too early can curdle if the soup is too hot. Incorporate it at low heat for a smooth finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits special?
This soup combines rich flavors from bacon and fresh herbs with comforting pierogies, creating a unique and hearty meal perfect for chilly nights.
Can I customize my Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes or peas or swap out chicken for another protein based on your preference.
How do I make my Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix in more flour or let it simmer longer without the lid on to reduce liquid.
What sides pair well with Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits?
Crusty bread or a fresh salad complements this delicious soup beautifully, enhancing its cozy appeal.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or adjust flavors as desired. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort it brings!
Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty one-pot meal combines tender chicken, crispy rosemary bacon, and delightful pierogies in a rich, creamy broth that warms the soul. Ready in just under an hour, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its easy preparation and satisfying flavors, this soup will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 6 slices thick cut bacon
- 2 chicken thighs or breasts
- 28 fresh or frozen mini potato pierogies
- 1 yellow onion
- 6 carrots
- 4 celery stalks
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or whole milk
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp; add rosemary in the last minute of cooking. Remove bacon and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and thyme in olive oil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in butter and flour to create a roux; gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously.
- Add chicken and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces; stir in kale, cream (or milk), and cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Gently add pierogies and cook for approximately 8 minutes until they float to the top.
- Serve hot, topped with reserved bacon bits.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 455
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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