Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Sauerkraut Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Sauerkraut Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Imagine tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and the delightful tang of Frank’s Kraut, all simmering together in a slow cooker until their flavors meld into something incredibly rich and cozy. A touch of sour cream and a simple roux create the perfect creamy texture without feeling heavy. Each spoonful offers a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and smooth flavors, reminiscent of a cherished recipe straight from Grandma’s kitchen.

This soup is hearty, comforting, and overflowing with classic flavors. Tender chicken, garden-fresh vegetables, and the distinct tang of Frank’s Kraut unite in a velvety broth that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did! The beauty of this recipe is that everything cooks low and slow in one pot. A simple stovetop roux adds a creamy finish to create a depth of flavor you’ll adore. It’s a perfect recipe for chilly days, busy weeknights, or anytime you’re craving a satisfying soup.

Easy Crockpot Chicken & Sauerkraut Cream Soup

If you appreciate the ease and convenience of slow cooker recipes, this one is a total dream. Simply combine all the ingredients in the crockpot, and hours later, you’ll have a flavorful soup. The creamy broth complements the tangy Frank’s Kraut, providing a nostalgic, home-style flavor that isn’t overly rich.

This recipe is an excellent way to utilize leftover or rotisserie chicken, saving you time on busy days. And because it makes a generous batch, it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for easy lunches. Top it off with bacon and green onions for added texture and flavor in every spoonful. The toppings add a burst of freshness and a satisfying crunch that takes this soup to the next level.

This recipe post is sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, but I am genuinely enthusiastic about their products and I have shared my own opinions.

This creamy chicken and sauerkraut soup is a modern take on the beloved Amish chicken and sauerkraut soup, celebrated for its simple ingredients and comforting tang. Similar to the traditional recipe, it features tender chicken, savory vegetables, and that signature sauerkraut flavor, enhanced by a creamy finish for an extra touch of indulgence. This version takes the classic and elevates it with added richness and depth.

Key Ingredients in Chicken & Sauerkraut Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients that make this creamy chicken and sauerkraut soup so delicious. You can find the full list of ingredients and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

• Cooked chicken – This adds heartiness and protein; rotisserie chicken provides wonderful flavor with very little effort. Consider using bone-in chicken for even more flavor.
• Potatoes – They add body and coziness. Yukon gold potatoes are a great choice for their creamy texture.
• Bay leaves – These add a subtle, savory base as everything simmers.
• Celery – It brings classic soup flavor and a bit of freshness.
• Onion – Onion builds the savory foundation that every good soup needs. Sautéing the onion before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor.
• Carrots – These add color, sweetness, and texture.
• Frank’s Kraut– This is the star ingredient! Its tangy flavor balances the creamy broth perfectly. Don’t skimp on the quality of your sauerkraut!
• Chicken stock – It provides a rich and flavorful base for the soup. Homemade chicken stock will really elevate the flavor, but store-bought works too.
• Salt & pepper – These are simple seasonings that bring the flavors to life.
• Butter – Butter helps form the roux, making the soup luxuriously creamy.
• Flour – Working with the butter, flour thickens the broth. Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Sour cream – Adds a tangy creaminess at the end. Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
• Bacon (optional) – A smoky, salty finishing touch that enhances each bowl.
• Green onions (optional) – They add a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Sauerkraut Soup

It’s so easy! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and come back hours later to a satisfying dinner!

First, add the cooked chicken, potatoes, celery, carrots, onion, Frank’s Kraut, and bay leaves to your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken stock, reserving 1 cup for the roux.

Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined. Then cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours, allowing the flavors to develop fully, or on HIGH for about 4 hours if you’re short on time. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have beautifully melded together.

Once the soup is cooked, remove and discard the bay leaves. These have imparted their flavor and are no longer needed.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the reserved 1 cup of chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens. This roux will add richness to the soup.

Stir the roux into the slow cooker, followed by the sour cream. Gently mix until the soup is creamy and everything is well combined. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed to adjust to your preferences. Now, the flavors are perfectly melded, and the soup is ready to be served.

Serve warm. If desired, top with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, can also enhance the presentation.

Stovetop Directions

For those who prefer making this soup on the stovetop, here are the directions. Add the chicken, vegetables, Frank’s Kraut, bay leaves, and chicken stock (reserving 1 cup) to a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer gently for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

While the soup simmers, prepare the roux in a separate saucepan. Once the vegetables are tender, whisk the prepared roux into the pot along with the sour cream, stirring constantly until the soup is creamy and smooth. Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper. Serve the soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

How to Store Leftover Soup

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and flavor of the soup. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If the soup thickens during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Freezing this soup is not recommended due to the dairy content, which can alter the texture.

Love it? Pin it!

If you enjoy this chicken and sauerkraut soup recipe, be sure to save it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it later.

Helpful Tips & Substitutions

Here are some additional tips and substitution ideas to customize the creamy chicken and sauerkraut soup to your preference.

• Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds depth of flavor. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or poached chicken.
• Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Consider adding mushrooms, parsnips, or even a handful of frozen peas towards the end of the cooking time.
• Broth: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also use vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
• Make it lighter: Substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream to reduce fat and calories. This will also add a tangy flavor.
• Add smoky depth: The optional bacon takes this soup to the next level. For a vegetarian option, consider adding smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
• Caraway Seeds: Sprinkle some caraway seeds on top for a nutty flavor that complements the sauerkraut.

Exploring the Health Benefits of Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is more than just a flavorful ingredient; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Being naturally fermented, it’s rich in probiotics, which contribute to a healthy gut and aid in digestion. Sauerkraut is also a source of vital nutrients, including vitamins C and K, along with essential minerals like iron and potassium. Combining sauerkraut with tender chicken results in a nourishing soup that delivers protein, probiotics, and numerous feel-good nutrients in every serving.

Read More about Sauerkraut in this informative post.

More Soup Recipes to Love

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some more sauerkraut-inspired soups you may enjoy. Perfect for lovers of tangy, comforting flavors!

• Sauerkraut Chicken Noodle Soup
• Sauerkraut Bratwurst & Potato Soup
• French Sauerkraut Soup (pictured above)
• Cream of Reuben Soup
• Oktoberfest Chili
• Instant Pot Beer Cheese with Kraut & Kielbasa

A heartfelt thank you to my friends at Frank’s Kraut for making this soup so flavorful. Their sauerkraut has the perfect tang, is delightfully crisp, and adds the right amount of zest to every spoonful. I highly recommend trying it the next time you want to bring a little something extra to your favorite comfort foods.

Find my entire selection of sauerkraut recipes here.

Even More Sauerkraut Recipes to Love

Follow along with Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels for delicious recipes all year long! Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Grab some kraut for yourself on their website!

This soup perfectly embodies everything we love about slow cooking: simple ingredients, effortless preparation, and big, satisfying flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or craving a comforting dinner, this creamy bowl filled with kraut always hits the spot. If you appreciate hearty comfort food with a tangy twist, this soup is going straight to the top of your cold-weather lineup. Don’t forget to share with me when you make it!