Snow Day Soup

Name: Snow Day Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon: cooked and crumbled for smoky flavor and crunch; 1 tbsp bacon grease: used for sautéing onion; 1/2 cup diced onion: adds savory depth; 3 cups chicken broth: forms the savory base; 20 oz Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: creamy, starchy texture; 1 tsp kosher salt: enhances flavor; 1 tsp black pepper: adds mild heat; 1 tsp garlic powder: boosts umami flavor; 1 pinch red pepper flakes: adds a slight kick; 1 cup frozen sweet corn: adds sweetness and texture; 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, chopped: hearty protein; 3 cups milk (1% recommended): creamy base; 3 tbsp cornstarch: used to thicken the soup; 1/4 cup cold water: mixed with cornstarch to make a slurry

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When the snow starts to fall and the temperatures dip, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty bowl of Snow Day Soup. This comforting chicken and potato soup is packed with sweet corn, crispy bacon, and creamy goodness — perfect for cozying up during winter. Whether you’re using your Instant Pot or a slow cooker, this soup delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture with minimal effort. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s both nourishing and nostalgic.

Why Snow Day Soup Is the Perfect Cold-Weather Meal

Snow Day Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. With its blend of tender potatoes, juicy chicken, sweet corn, and smoky bacon, it’s both filling and flavorful. Made with pantry staples and rotisserie chicken, it’s incredibly convenient to throw together on a busy day. The soup is naturally gluten-free and can be made lighter or richer based on your choice of milk. Plus, it’s adaptable for both Instant Pot and slow cooker cooking methods, giving you flexibility based on your schedule.

What Goes Into Snow Day Soup

Each ingredient in this soup plays a key role in creating its warm, satisfying flavor profile. Here’s what makes it special:

Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and a crunchy topping for texture contrast
Bacon grease: Used to sauté the onion, infusing the base with rich umami
Onion: Provides aromatic depth and a subtle sweetness
Chicken broth: Serves as the savory liquid base for the soup
Russet potatoes: Offer a creamy, starchy texture that thickens the soup naturally
Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile
Black pepper: Adds a gentle, earthy heat
Garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor with no chopping required
Red pepper flakes: Provide just a hint of heat to balance the creaminess
Frozen sweet corn: Brings sweetness and bursts of texture in every bite
Rotisserie chicken: Quick protein option that absorbs the soup’s flavors
Milk: Creates the creamy base and softens the overall texture
Cornstarch: Thickens the soup for a silky, rich consistency

Ingredient Swaps and Customizations

You can easily adapt Snow Day Soup to meet dietary needs or based on what you have on hand:

No bacon? Use turkey bacon or smoked sausage for a similar smoky bite
Dairy-free? Substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and use olive oil instead of bacon grease
Low-sodium diet? Opt for low-sodium broth and reduce the added salt
Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and bacon, and use vegetable broth. Add white beans for protein
No corn on hand? Substitute with peas or chopped carrots for sweetness and texture

How to Make Snow Day Soup – Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe can be made using either an Instant Pot or a slow cooker. Both methods are straightforward and result in a cozy, thick soup that’s full of flavor.

Instant Pot Method

Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of bacon grease and sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Turn off the sauté mode.
Add potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, corn, and cooked chicken.
Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the SOUP button and cook for 4 minutes on low pressure.
Allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
In a separate bowl, temper the milk by mixing in 1 cup of hot soup. Then pour the milk mixture back into the Instant Pot.
Stir together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Add this slurry to the soup and turn on the sauté setting again.
Let the soup simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Serve hot, garnished with bacon crumbles.

Slow Cooker Method

Sauté onion with bacon grease in a skillet for 3 minutes, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Add broth, potatoes, seasonings, corn, and chicken to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until potatoes are fork-tender.
Temper milk with a cup of hot soup, then stir it into the slow cooker.
Add cornstarch slurry, stir well, and cook on high without the lid for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
Serve and top with crispy bacon.

Pro Tips to Perfect Your Snow Day Soup

Don’t skip tempering the milk: This step prevents curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Stir while thickening: Keep stirring the soup gently during the final stage to avoid sticking or scorching.
Crush a few potatoes: Lightly mash some of the potatoes after cooking to thicken the soup naturally.
Add cheese for richness: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan right before serving for added indulgence.
Cook bacon in the air fryer: This keeps it crisp without the mess of stovetop splatter.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

Snow Day Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate the meal:

Serve with: Crusty sourdough, garlic bread, or cornbread
Salad pairings: Caesar salad or a crisp winter greens salad with apples and nuts
Toppings: Shredded cheese, green onions, sour cream, or extra red pepper flakes for heat
Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a warming kick
Gluten-free: This soup is naturally gluten-free—just check your broth and bacon labels
Make-ahead tip: Prepare and store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months

Why This Recipe Works Year After Year

Snow Day Soup isn’t just a one-season wonder — it’s a staple for every cold-weather table. Its balance of creaminess, protein, and comforting flavor makes it a repeat-worthy meal from fall to spring. Plus, the ingredients are affordable and easily accessible, making it a go-to option for families, couples, or solo cooks. Its flexibility in preparation method means you can set it and forget it or whip it up in under an hour. And with that irresistible aroma of bacon and savory broth wafting through the kitchen, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Conclusion

Snow Day Soup isn’t just a meal — it’s a cozy ritual that turns a cold day into something special. Whether you choose to prepare it in a slow cooker while you unwind, or whip it up quickly in an Instant Pot, the blend of creamy potatoes, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet corn makes every spoonful feel like a warm hug. Its versatility, family appeal, and simple ingredients make it a winter staple you’ll revisit again and again. Keep this recipe on hand for snowstorms, sick days, or any time you crave that rich, home-cooked comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze Snow Day Soup for later?

Yes, Snow Day Soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Store for up to 3 months. For best texture, reheat slowly on the stove and stir well — especially after freezing soups with dairy and potatoes.

What’s the best way to make Snow Day Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and bacon. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and consider adding cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein. Use plant-based milk and a splash of olive oil or butter for richness.

How can I make this soup thicker or creamier?

For a thicker texture, mash some of the cooked potatoes right in the pot. You can also increase the cornstarch slurry slightly or add a handful of shredded cheese before serving. Whole milk or a splash of cream will also enhance the soup’s creaminess.

More Relevant Recipes

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup: This creamy and comforting soup features tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a savory broth infused with herbs. Much like Snow Day Soup, it’s perfect for cold nights and offers a hearty, family-friendly meal with minimal effort using your slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: A cozy blend of chicken, potatoes, and vegetables simmered to perfection, this stew captures the same warming, rustic flavors of Snow Day Soup. It’s a slow cooker classic ideal for busy winter days and yields a thick, satisfying texture.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: Bright and comforting, this soup combines tender chicken with orzo pasta and a zing of lemon, offering a fresh twist on traditional comfort soups. It mirrors the heartiness of Snow Day Soup while adding a citrusy lightness to your meal rotation.

Snow Day Soup – Best Cozy Meal for Winter

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