If you’re in the mood for a warm, hearty, and satisfying bowl of soup, look no further than Crack Chicken Noodle Soup. This deliciously creamy and flavorful soup combines tender chicken, savory bacon, creamy cheese, and hearty noodles to create the ultimate comfort food. It’s called “crack” chicken for a reason — once you try it, you’ll find it hard to stop eating! Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, share some tips for making it even better, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Ultimate Comfort Food
This soup is everything you crave in a comforting meal: creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and savory bacon, Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect dish for any cold evening or when you need a little extra warmth.
2. Loaded with Flavor
The combination of chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese gives this soup its signature flavor. It’s an irresistible blend of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy elements that will have you coming back for more.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
This soup is surprisingly easy to make, especially considering the depth of flavor. You can prepare it in under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food on short notice.
4. Customizable
Whether you want to add more vegetables, use a different type of cheese, or swap the bacon for sausage, Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is easy to adapt based on your preferences.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Here’s a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious soup. Refer to the table below for easy reference:
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) | 2 large breasts (about 1 lb) | The base protein for the soup |
| Bacon | 4-6 slices | Adds savory flavor and crispy texture |
| Carrots | 2 medium carrots, diced | For sweetness and added nutrition |
| Celery | 2 stalks, diced | Adds crunch and flavor |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | The flavorful base of the soup |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (1 package) | Adds creaminess and richness |
| Ranch seasoning mix | 1 packet (about 1 oz) | The signature flavor that makes this soup stand out |
| Egg noodles | 2 cups | Hearty noodles to soak up all the flavors |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Adds aromatic flavor |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup | For added creaminess and cheesy goodness |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning the soup |
How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon
- Cook the Chicken: Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either cook them in a skillet over medium heat for about 7-10 minutes per side or poach them in a pot of water or broth until cooked through (about 20-25 minutes). Shred the chicken using two forks once it’s cooked, then set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: While the chicken is cooking, chop the bacon into small pieces and cook it in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Garlic
- Sauté the Carrots and Celery: In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the diced carrots and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
- Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Cream Cheese and Ranch Seasoning: Cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the pot. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the broth. Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Combine
- Add the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions (about 7-10 minutes) until they are tender.
- Add the Shredded Chicken: Once the noodles are cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Then add the cooked bacon back into the soup and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Serve hot with additional shredded cheese and bacon on top if desired.
Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker version of this soup, you can substitute the cooked chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes to the soup for extra heartiness and flavor.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Use a Slow Cooker: You can make this soup in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients (except the noodles) and cooking on low for 4-6 hours. Add the noodles and cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 400-450 per serving
- Fat: 22-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Sodium: 900-1,000 mg
To make the soup lighter, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese, or swap the egg noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can swap the egg noodles for any pasta you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.
Can I make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much after refrigerating, add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup. However, keep in mind that the noodles may become a bit soft after freezing and reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Can I make this soup without bacon?
Yes! If you prefer to skip the bacon, you can make the soup without it, or substitute the bacon with cooked sausage, turkey bacon, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a bit of smoky flavor.
Conclusion: A Creamy, Flavorful Comfort Classic
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and hearty noodles into one delicious bowl. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night at home or serving it to a crowd, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup tonight — it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love!