Crack Chicken Noodle Soup – the ultimate comfort food that takes a classic recipe and kicks it up a notch with a creamy, indulgent twist. This irresistible dish combines tender shredded chicken, rich broth, and a decadent blend of cheeses and bacon to create a truly crave-worthy meal. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or simply satisfy your comfort food cravings, this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is sure to hit the spot.
Table of Contents
Ingredients That Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Shine
The key to this delectable Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the carefully selected ingredients that work together to create a flavor explosion in every bite. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great) – The foundation of the soup, providing tender, juicy protein.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The savory liquid that forms the base of the soup.
- 2 cups water – Balances the richness and adds the perfect amount of liquid.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Lends a luxuriously creamy texture to the soup.
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened – Melts seamlessly into the broth, creating a velvety, indulgent base.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – Adds a burst of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the soup, providing a cheesy richness.
- 3 cups uncooked egg noodles – Tender noodles soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Crispy bacon lends a savory, smoky note.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the overall savory profile.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Balances the richness with a gentle kick of spice.
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish) – Fresh green onions provide a fresh, vibrant finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Perfection
Now that you’ve got all the mouthwatering ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to creating this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup masterpiece:
Start the Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, water, heavy cream, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Heat over medium, whisking occasionally, until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Noodles
Add the uncooked egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
Finish with Cheese and Bacon
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, mixing until the cheese has melted and the soup is wonderfully creamy and indulgent.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Crack Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions, if desired. Savor every comforting, flavor-packed bite!
Tips for Making the Best Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
To ensure your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:
- Use a rotisserie chicken – Shredding the meat from a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a quick and easy way to get the chicken into the soup without having to cook it separately.
- Cook the noodles al dente – Be sure not to overcook the egg noodles, as they’ll continue to soften as the soup simmers.
- Adjust the creaminess to your liking – If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water to thin it out. For an even richer, creamier texture, stir in an extra splash of heavy cream.
- Season to taste – Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper to suit your preferences.
Variations and Substitutions to Customize Your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
While the classic Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is an absolute delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish:
- Try different noodles – Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free options, like rice noodles or zucchini noodles, to accommodate dietary needs.
- Use alternative proteins – Instead of chicken, you can use shredded turkey, cubed tofu, or even diced ham to switch up the main ingredient.
- Make it dairy-free – Substitute the heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a creamy, lactose-free version.
- Add veggies – Toss in diced carrots, peas, or broccoli to boost the nutritional value and add some colorful crunch.
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
While Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is undeniably indulgent, it also packs a nutritional punch. Each serving (about 1 1/2 cups) contains approximately 470 calories, 29 grams of protein, 27 grams of fat, and 27 grams of carbohydrates. The chicken and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the creamy broth and noodles deliver a satisfying, comforting meal.
To make this dish even healthier, you can opt for low-fat or reduced-fat dairy products, use less cheese, and increase the proportion of vegetables. Additionally, serve the soup with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
- Bacon Cheese Stuffed Burger Bombs
- Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Pancakes
FAQs About Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup in a slow cooker! Begin by adding the chicken broth, water, heavy cream, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese is well combined. Add the shredded chicken and cook on low for 4-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked egg noodles and let them cook until tender. Finally, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon before serving. This method is great for meal prep and allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
What is the best way to reheat leftover Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
The best way to reheat leftover Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is on the stovetop. Pour the soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave by placing the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heating it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
How can I thicken Crack Chicken Noodle Soup if it’s too thin?
If your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup turns out too thin, there are several methods to thicken it. One option is to make a cornstarch slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then gradually adding this mixture to the soup while stirring. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender, which will create a thicker texture without sacrificing flavor. Adding more cream cheese or shredded cheese can also help thicken the soup while enhancing its creaminess.
Can I make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup without using cream cheese?
Yes, you can make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup without cream cheese if you prefer a lighter version or have dietary restrictions. Instead of cream cheese, you can use a combination of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream added at the end of cooking for creaminess. Another option is to increase the amount of heavy cream or use a dairy-free cream alternative, like coconut cream, to maintain a rich flavor. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly, so adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul and leave you craving more. With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, and indulgent cheesy flavors, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. So, grab a spoon and get ready to savor every comforting bite of this delectable Crack Chicken Noodle Soup!
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Discover the Ultimate Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Today!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup – the ultimate comfort food that takes a classic recipe and kicks it up a notch with a creamy, indulgent twist. This irresistible dish combines tender shredded chicken, rich broth, and a decadent blend of cheeses and bacon to create a truly crave-worthy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cup chicken broth
- 2 cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, water, heavy cream, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Heat over medium, whisking occasionally, until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in the shredded chicken and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Add the uncooked egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, mixing until the cheese has melted and the soup is wonderfully creamy and indulgent.
5. Ladle the Crack Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions, if desired. Savor every comforting, flavor-packed bite!
Notes
Use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Cook the noodles al dente to prevent overcooking.
Adjust creaminess by adding more broth or cream as needed.
Season to taste with additional spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cup
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 900 milligrams
- Fat: 27 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 27 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 29 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 milligrams