2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix (optional)
2 oz cream cheese, softened (optional)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped for garnish
Extra ranch dressing for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the fat in the pot.
Add diced carrots, celery, and onion (if using) to the bacon fat. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until beginning to soften.
If using garlic, add it to the vegetables and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the shredded chicken. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the ranch dressing and heavy cream.
If using cream cheese, add it now, stirring until completely melted.
Season with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning mix if using.
Simmer gently for 5 minutes, being careful not to let it boil.
If using shredded cheese, stir it in until melted.
Crumble the reserved bacon.
Ladle soup into bowls and top each serving with crumbled bacon and fresh chives.
Drizzle with additional ranch if desired and serve hot.
Notes
For a thicker soup, create a slurry with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the simmering soup.
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keep bacon separate when storing to maintain its crispness.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals at 70% power.
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.