Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Soup

INGREDIENTS

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 Tbsp four
• 1 Tbsp chicken seasoning (for grilling, not poultry seasoning)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 boneless chicken thighs
• 2 boxes chicken stock
• 1 c uncooked wild rice
• 1 bunch scallions, sliced, whites and greens separated (1/2 c each)
• 1/2 c celery
• 1/2 c diced carrod
• 4 c shredded cheddar
• 1 c heavy whipping cream

PREPARATION

1. Spray large crockpot with spray
2. Cook bacon in skillet; remove bacon with slotted spoon to paper towels.
3. In bowl, combine seasoning, salt, and flour. Toss chicken in flour mixture.
4. Heat bacon drippings to medium-high.
5. Add chicken, cook 4-5 minutes till browned on first side.
6. Turn chicken over, cook 1-2 minutes until beginning to brown.
7. While chicken cooks, combine stock, rice, scallion whites, celery, and carrot in crock.
8. Refrigerate scallion greens and bacon bits.
9. Add chicken and pan drippings to crock.
10. Cover; cook on LOW 7-8 hours.
11. Remove chicken, chop, return to crock.
12. Stir in 3 cups of the cheese and the whipping cream.
13. Serve. Top with remaining cheese, bacon, and scallions.

( bettycrocker.com )

-- Jonathan Guthrie - 2016-02-12