Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the rosemary bacon
- Cook the chopped bacon with the minced fresh rosemary over medium heat until crispy, then remove it to a plate and leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
Caramelize the onions
- Sauté the thinly sliced onion in the drippings over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes until caramelized, stirring occasionally with scrape-the-bottom motion as it browns.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes, just until fragrant, while keeping the heat at medium-low to avoid burning.
Simmer the soup
- Add the chicken broth and onion powder to the pot, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the frozen mini pierogis and cook according to package directions (usually 4-5 minutes) until tender.
- Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cubed cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and the shredded cooked chicken, then simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors and thicken slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir well to distribute seasoning.
Serve
- Serve hot, topped with the reserved rosemary bacon and chives for color and crunch.
Notes
Pro tip: keep the heat at medium-low once you add cream cheese so it melts smoothly without scorching. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended because pierogis and cream can change texture after thawing. For a lighter swap, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream (still melt cream cheese as written).
