Crockpot Smoky Chicken, Bacon and Sweet Potato Soup Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add extra depth, you can sauté the bacon in a separate skillet before adding it to the slow cooker to achieve a crispier texture.

While not strictly necessary, this extra step helps release the fat earlier, which can enhance the overall smokiness of the soup. Always remember to drain any excess grease if you prefer a less oily final dish.

If you prefer a thicker, creamier consistency, consider removing a small portion of the sweet potatoes and mashing them with a fork before returning them to the pot.

This creates a natural thickener that adds body to the broth without the need for flour or cornstarch. This technique also helps to highlight the natural sweetness of the potatoes throughout the entire soup.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker during the assembly phase for a spicy version of this soup.
• Herb Infused: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary during the last thirty minutes of cooking to add an aromatic, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming, or microwave in a covered bowl until hot.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the soup has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for longer than two hours to maintain food safety. When reheating, ensure the soup reaches a gentle simmer throughout to ensure it is heated evenly and safely before consumption.

This soup is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, let it cool completely, and store it.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you are ready to serve, adding a splash of fresh broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Serving ideas

Serve this soup hot in deep bowls, perhaps accompanied by a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad to balance the richness of the bacon and chicken. The hearty nature of the soup makes it a complete meal on its own, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a bright, fresh finish that complements the smoky flavors.

For an added touch, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese if you enjoy extra creaminess.

The combination of the tender chicken and sweet potato provides a satisfying texture that pairs well with almost any simple side. Ensure you provide a large spoon for each guest to properly enjoy the chunky, flavorful ingredients in every bite.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Smoky Chicken, Bacon and Sweet Potato Soup

Prep 15 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 20 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb chicken breast chunks
• 2 cups sweet potato cubes
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breast chunks into the base of the slow cooker stoneware insert. Add the sweet potato cubes and the chopped bacon on top of the chicken. Sprinkle the paprika evenly over the ingredients to ensure a consistent smoky flavor throughout the dish.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Once the cooking time is complete and the chicken is fully cooked, check that the chicken chunks are opaque and tender. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the temperature to stabilize for a pleasant eating experience.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

350

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

16 g

Fiber

3.5 g

Sugar

4.5 g

Sodium

750 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.