Chunky Shrimp Bisque - Paula Deen

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion
• 2 small cloves garlic
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups canned chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry
• 2 pounds medium shrimp
• salt and freshly ground pepper
• Chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves optional
• Oyster crackers optional