Name: Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Chicken Thighs (Can substitute with chicken breasts); 6 slices Crispy Bacon (Turkey bacon can be used); 2 cups Kale (Can substitute with spinach or Swiss chard); 6 cups Chicken Broth (Can substitute with vegetable broth); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Gouda or Gruyère can be used); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Butter can be used); 1 package Mini Potato Pierogies (Can substitute with small dumplings or gnocchi); 1 medium Onion (Chopped); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 teaspoon Herbs (e.g., thyme, parsley) (Fresh herbs enhance flavor)

There’s something magical about a cozy bowl of soup on a chilly day, especially when it’s as inviting as my Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon. As aromas of sizzling bacon and fragrant herbs fill the air, it becomes clear: this isn’t just any soup. With tender chicken, cheesy pierogies, and the rich warmth of creamy broth, it’s comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With just the right balance of flavors and textures, this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously easy recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl?

Why Is This Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting and Hearty: This Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon is the ultimate hug-in-a-bowl, perfect for chilly nights.

Quick and Easy: With a prep and cook time of under an hour, you can impress your family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Flavor Explosion: Savory chicken, crispy bacon, and cheesy pierogies create a rich and satisfying flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out ingredients—try different meats or leafy greens like spinach for a twist!

Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, or freeze portions for a quick meal later on.

Indulge in this delightful recipe that stands out with its unique blend of creamy goodness and cozy comfort—just like my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Baked Potato Soup that will surely brighten up your dinner table!

Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components of this comforting dish!

For the Soup Base

Chicken Thighs – Adds rich flavor and juiciness to the soup; you can swap for breasts for a leaner option.
Crispy Bacon – Provides a savory crunch; turkey bacon can be a lighter substitution.
Kale – Contributes nutritional value and balances the dish’s richness; feel free to use spinach or Swiss chard instead.
Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

For the Creaminess

Cheddar Cheese – Enhances the soup’s creaminess and flavor; swap it for Gouda or Gruyère for a unique twist.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the vegetables; butter or any oil you prefer will also work well.

For the Pierogi Delight

Mini Potato Pierogies – Adds heartiness and texture; small dumplings or gnocchi can be used as alternatives, adjusting cooking time if needed.

For Flavoring

Onion and Garlic – Provide aromatic and savory depth; don’t skip on these for the best flavor!
Herbs (e.g., thyme, parsley) – Bring freshness to the dish that elevates the overall taste; you could also try rosemary or dill for variety.

Enjoying a bowl of this Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon is a delightful experience, perfect for those chilly days!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon

Step 1: Sauté Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, add diced bacon and cook until crisp, around 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics
In the same pot with the bacon fat, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, ensuring a flavorful base for your Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Chicken
Toss in chopped kale and bite-sized chicken thighs, cooking for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides. Stir frequently, allowing the kale to wilt and the chicken to soak up those delicious flavors. This step builds the hearty character of your soup.

Step 4: Pour in Broth
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for 10–15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the chicken cook through.

Step 5: Incorporate Pierogies
Add the mini potato pierogies to the pot, stirring gently. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes around 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, ensuring they are tender but not overcooked, creating a delightful texture in your creamy soup.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Once the pierogies are cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, usually about 2–3 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to enhance the delicious flavors of your Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon, perfect for chilly evenings.

Tips for the Best Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup

Don’t Rush the Bacon: Sautéing the bacon until crispy builds flavor; if you rush, the soup may lack that savory depth.
Perfect Cheese Addition: Stir in the cheddar cheese off the heat to maintain its creaminess in your Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup; curdling can ruin the texture.
Pierogi Timing Matters: Keep an eye on the pierogies; overcooking makes them mushy, while the perfect texture adds heartiness to your soup.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving; balancing flavors with salt and pepper can elevate your dish from good to great!
Cooking Liquid Choices: For added richness, use homemade chicken broth; store-bought works too but may require more seasoning adjustments.

What to Serve with Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup

There’s nothing like a warm, welcoming bowl of soup to make every meal feel special and complete.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a fresh baguette or sourdough adds a satisfying crunch and absorbs the creamy soup beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing the meal.
Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery delights pull double duty as a tasty side and a way to soak up the luscious broth.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers provide a hearty, colorful addition to your table, complementing the flavors wonderfully.
Apple Crisp: This sweet, warm dessert adds a comforting finish to your meal, pairing nicely with the savory elements of the soup.
Chardonnay: A glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay enhances the dish’s creaminess and cuts through the richness, elevating your dining experience.

Satisfy your cravings while being inspired to make the most out of your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing, ensuring freshness.

Freezer: This Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency, as it may thicken when stored.

Make-Ahead Tips: Feel free to prepare the soup ahead of time and freeze it for quick weeknight dinners. Just reheat and serve for an easy meal!

Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe, transforming it to suit your tastes or dietary needs!

Different Meats: Swap chicken for smoked sausage or turkey for a robust kick. Each alternative brings a unique twist to your comforting bowl.
Greens Galore: Replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a fresh and vibrant alternative! This can also lighten the dish while still keeping it nutritious.
Cheese Varieties: Try Gouda or Gruyère for a rich, nutty flavor instead of cheddar. A touch of Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds heat for those who enjoy a little spice.
Dumpling Delight: If pierogies aren’t your thing, small dumplings or gnocchi can easily be substituted, adjusting cooking times as necessary for a delightful change in texture.
Heat It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that balances the creaminess beautifully. This gives your soup an exciting warmth that will awaken your senses!
Vegetarian-Friendly: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and opt for hearty mushrooms or chickpeas to replace the meat while maintaining that comforting, hearty vibe.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or dill, to change up the flavor profile! Each herb brings its own unique pop, creating a symphony of flavors.

Dive into this comforting dish and cherish all the cozy evenings ahead. You might also like to explore my Reuben Soup Warm or my Carrot Potato Soup for more hearty options!

Make Ahead Options

Getting a head start on your Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon can make mealtime a breeze! You can prepare the base of the soup—including sautéing the bacon, onions, garlic, chicken, and kale—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the cooked mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bring the base back to a simmer, add the chicken broth, and incorporate the pierogies according to package instructions. If you want to make it even quicker, you can prepare the pierogies separately and refrigerate them until ready to cook. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time on busy nights while still serving up a delicious, comforting meal that tastes just as wonderful!

Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and juiciness, I recommend using chicken thighs, as they hold moisture and add richness to the soup. However, if you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work just fine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as breasts may cook faster.

How should I store leftovers of this soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before sealing it up. If you plan on keeping it longer, consider freezing for up to 2 months. Don’t forget to label the container with the date!

Can I freeze this creamy pierogi chicken soup?
Certainly! To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as the soup may expand when frozen. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed for consistency.

What do I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, just add a little chicken broth or water while reheating until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember, it’s important to stir well and heat on low to avoid altering the creamy texture too much.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This soup can be made gluten-free by selecting gluten-free pierogies or using small gluten-free dumplings. If you or someone you’re serving has a dairy allergy, opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain creaminess without the dairy. Always check labels if you’re unsure about specific ingredient brands.

What can I use instead of pierogies in this soup?
I often make this soup with mini potato pierogies, but if you can’t find them, small dumplings or even gnocchi can be delightful substitutes. Just ensure you adjust cooking times according to package instructions to keep the texture perfect.