When the chilly winds start to blow, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of soup. I recently stumbled upon this delightful crack chicken noodle soup recipe, and it has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The rich creaminess mingling with tender shards of chicken and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon creates a comforting harmony that’s hard to resist. As the delicious aroma wafts through my home, I can practically see my family gathering at the table, eagerly anticipating this hearty meal.
Imagine a dish that combines the classic elements of chicken noodle soup with a modern twist; it’s rich, it’s creamy, and it’s bursting with flavor thanks to a hint of ranch seasoning and loads of melted cheddar. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that promises to simplify dinner on busy nights. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or just needing a quick weeknight meal, this crack chicken noodle soup checks all the right boxes. Let’s dive into this culinary comfort that is sure to become a family favorite!
Why is Crack Chicken Noodle Soup a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot recipe brings together all your favorite ingredients without complicating the cooking process.
Rich, Savory Flavor: The lovely medley of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese creates a unique taste that’s hard to beat.
Comforting Texture: Enjoy a delightful combination of creamy soup, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, making each bite satisfying.
Family-Friendly Delight: With its universal appeal, this meal is perfect for everyone, whether you’re feeding kids or adults.
Versatile Options: Adapt it easily with gluten-free pasta and season to taste, so everyone can enjoy this delicious comfort food.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create a creamy blockbuster!
For the Soup Base
• Chicken – Use cooked shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breast for maximum tenderness.
• Condensed Soup – A 10.5 oz can of condensed chicken soup helps achieve that rich, creamy texture.
• Stock – Low-sodium chicken stock adds depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Milk – Whole milk enhances richness, but lower-fat options can be substituted if desired.
For the Vegetables
• Celery – ½ cup of chopped celery brings a fresh crunch and lovely flavor to the mix.
• Carrots – Use 2 medium sliced carrots for natural sweetness and vibrant color.
For the Flavor
• Ranch Dressing Mix – Essential for that signature flavor; make sure to use dry ranch mix, not liquid.
• Bacon – Crumbled thick-cut bacon adds a delightful crispy, savory layer—12 slices recommended.
For the Creaminess
• Cheese – 1½ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese provides that dreamy, melty goodness.
• Cream Cheese – ¾ cup of softened cream cheese enriches the soup’s texture and flavor.
For the Pasta
• Thin Spaghetti or Angel Hair – 8 oz of uncooked pasta serves as the perfect noodle base in this hearty soup.
This easy-to-make crack chicken noodle soup meets the comfort food craving while keeping the cooking process simple. Enjoy!
How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
-
Cook the Bacon: Begin by cooking 12 slices of thick-cut bacon in a large Dutch oven until crispy, then crumble it and set aside. Let the aroma fill your kitchen!
-
Combine Ingredients: In the same Dutch oven, combine shredded chicken, a 10.5 oz can of condensed chicken soup, 4 cups of low-sodium chicken stock, 1 cup of whole milk, ¾ cup of softened cream cheese, 2 sliced carrots, ½ cup of chopped celery, the dry ranch dressing mix, and the crumbled bacon. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
-
Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will enhance the flavors and allow the creaminess to develop beautifully.
-
Add Noodles and Cheese: Stir in 8 oz of uncooked thin spaghetti or angel hair and 1½ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese. Continue to simmer until the noodles are al dente and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, topped with additional crumbled bacon if desired. Gather your family and revel in the comfort of this delicious meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crack Chicken Noodle Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables (carrots and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can cook and crumble the bacon ahead of time and refrigerate it, ensuring it stays crispy when added later. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious soup, combine your prepped ingredients with the shredded chicken, condensed soup, chicken stock, milk, and cream cheese. Heat everything gently over medium-high heat until warmed through, then stir in the noodles and cheese, allowing them to cook until tender. This way, you’ll have a cozy meal ready in no time, just as comforting as if you made it from scratch!
Expert Tips for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
• Season Wisely: Always season the soup at the end with salt and pepper to taste; this helps you control the saltiness level from the ranch dressing mix.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: After adding cream cheese, keep the soup at a gentle simmer. Boiling can cause the cream cheese to curdle and ruin your creamy texture.
• Thickening Trick: If you prefer a thicker soup, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water before stirring it into the soup.
• Pasta Precision: Add your uncooked pasta during the last 8-10 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming overly soft and mushy.
• Storage Solutions: For leftovers, refrigerate in a sealed container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 4-5 months. Note that pasta may soften when frozen.
• Gluten-Free Options: To make this a gluten-free crack chicken noodle soup, ensure the ranch dressing mix is gluten-free and substitute with gluten-free pasta.
Storage Tips for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Fridge: Store leftover crack chicken noodle soup in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 4-5 months. The texture may change slightly, especially the pasta, but the flavor remains delicious.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or stock if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions: This comforting soup is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
Feel free to make this scrumptious soup your own by trying out these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch dressing mix is gluten-free for a tasty alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a zesty heat that will warm you right up.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme while simmering for a fragrant pop of flavor that brightens every bite.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance nutrition by adding diced bell peppers or spinach for extra textures and colors that your family will enjoy.
- Creamy Dreamy: Swap in a mix of regular and low-fat cream cheese to lighten up without sacrificing the creamy goodness of your soup.
- Mushroom Medley: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that deepens the overall taste experience in each spoonful.
- Cheesy Extra: For those who can’t resist cheese, double the amount of shredded cheddar or try adding Parmesan for a delightful twist.
- Savory Sausage: Substitute crumbled sausage for bacon to create a heartier version that’s loaded with robust flavor.
Play with these variations to craft a comforting bowl of soup that suits your taste and dietary preferences!
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
A warm and hearty bowl of soup begs for tasty companions to complete the meal experience.
-
Crusty Bread: This is the perfect vessel for soaking up every creamy drop of your soup. Imagine the satisfying crunch as you dip it into the rich flavors!
-
Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad adds brightness and freshness, balancing the rich creaminess of the soup. Enjoy a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks offer a delightful contrast. The garlicky goodness complements the savory flavors beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
-
Steamed Vegetables: Choose a medley of seasonal veggies like broccoli or green beans for a nutritious touch. The pop of colors and textures enhances the whole experience.
-
Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are an excellent side that pairs wonderfully with creamy soups. They’re perfect for sopping up soup while adding a delightful chew.
-
Refreshing Iced Tea: A glass of lightly sweetened iced tea provides a refreshingly cool contrast. Its subtle sweetness enhances the flavors of the soup without overwhelming your palate.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, what better than warm chocolate chip cookies? This comforting dessert rounds out the meal and will surely bring smiles all around.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or freshly cooked chicken breast for a healthier option. If you’re short on time, the rotisserie option is a great shortcut that still provides fantastic flavor.
How long can I store leftover Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
Very! Leftover soup can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days. To ensure maximum freshness, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
Of course! You can freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 4-5 months. To do this, allow the soup to cool completely before portioning it into containers. Keep in mind that while the flavor will remain intact, the pasta may become soft after freezing.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries if that happens! Simply stir in a bit of additional chicken stock or milk to adjust the consistency to your liking. Add it gradually while stirring until you reach your desired thickness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, ensure that the ranch dressing mix is gluten-free and substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties. Additionally, if you have allergies, be cautious of ingredients like cream cheese and cheddar cheese; you can opt for dairy-free alternatives if needed.
How can I spice up my Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
The more the merrier! If you’re looking for a little kick, I often add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. Start small and adjust according to your spice preference for a delightful zing!
Creamy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup That Boosts Your Comfort Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Bacon: Begin by cooking 12 slices of thick-cut bacon in a large Dutch oven until crispy, then crumble it and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same Dutch oven, combine shredded chicken, a 10.5 oz can of condensed chicken soup, 4 cups of low-sodium chicken stock, 1 cup of whole milk, ¾ cup of softened cream cheese, 2 sliced carrots, ½ cup of chopped celery, the dry ranch dressing mix, and the crumbled bacon. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Noodles and Cheese: Stir in 8 oz of uncooked thin spaghetti or angel hair and 1½ cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese. Continue to simmer until the noodles are al dente and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, topped with additional crumbled bacon if desired.
