Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and creamy soup loaded with tender chicken, egg noodles, bacon, and ranch flavors. This hearty soup is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky, making it a favorite for family dinners, especially on chilly days. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this soup will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the shredded or cubed cooked chicken, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, until tender.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and combined.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, crumbled bacon, and heavy cream. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. You can also cook raw chicken breasts in the broth until fully cooked, then shred.
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier melting.
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy for the best flavor and texture.
- Consistency: For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth by 1 cup. For a thinner soup, add more chicken broth as needed.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for some heat.
- Vegetable Addition: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas or chopped spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added veggies.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Cheesy Twist: Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for extra cheesy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop. Add extra broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as the cream cheese and heavy cream may separate and result in a grainy texture when thawed.
4. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape you prefer. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for added richness.
- Crackers: Serve with crunchy crackers for extra texture.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken, savory bacon, and the classic flavors of ranch seasoning, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, satisfying bowl of comfort that everyone will love!
