Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

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Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a delightful twist on traditional chicken noodle soup that combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and hearty vegetables to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. This recipe has gained popularity for its rich flavors and simplicity, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, gather the following ingredients:

  • Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender meat that shreds easily.
  • Noodles: Egg noodles work best, but you can substitute with your favorite pasta.
  • Broth: Chicken broth provides the base for the soup, infusing it with flavor.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture that sets this soup apart.
  • Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion create a flavorful medley.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhance the taste.
  • Optional Toppings: Chopped green onions or crispy bacon for garnish.

How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken in a large pot or slow cooker. If you’re using a slow cooker, add the chicken along with the broth, cream cheese, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender. If you prefer to use a stovetop, simmer the chicken in the broth for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Noodles

Incorporate chopped carrots, celery, and onions into the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the noodles are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or crispy bacon for an extra touch of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food at Its Best

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and flavorful veggies create a warm and inviting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up.

Versatile and Easy to Customize

Feel free to customize your soup! You can add other vegetables like peas or corn, switch up the seasonings, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.

Meal Prep Friendly

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. It also freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it anytime you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a delicious and simple recipe that combines the best elements of traditional chicken noodle soup with a creamy twist. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it on your own, this comforting dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try today, and discover why everyone is raving about this incredible soup!

See also  Mexican Street Corn Soup

Serving and Storage Tips for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

To ensure that your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup remains delicious and easy to enjoy, follow these serving and storage tips:

Serving Tips

  1. Garnish Creatively: Enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your soup with garnishes. Consider adding:
  • Chopped Green Onions: They provide a fresh crunch and a burst of color.
  • Crispy Bacon: For a savory touch that complements the creaminess of the soup.
  • Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: A sprinkle adds freshness and a pop of color.
  1. Accompaniments: Pair your soup with:
  • Crusty Bread: A loaf of sourdough or a baguette is perfect for dipping.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic combo is always a hit.
  • Side Salad: A light garden salad can balance the richness of the soup.
  1. Temperature Matters: Serve the soup hot for the best flavor and texture. If it has cooled, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming.

Storage Tips

  1. Refrigeration:
  • Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
  1. Freezing:
  • Cool Completely: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before freezing.
  • Portion It Out: Divide the soup into individual portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. This makes it easy to thaw and reheat just what you need.
  • Label and Date: Always label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
  • Freezing Duration: Crack Chicken Noodle Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  1. Thawing and Reheating:
  • Thaw: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator the night before to thaw. For quicker thawing, you can place the container in cold water.
  • Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until hot. If the soup thickens after freezing, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
  1. Texture Considerations: Keep in mind that pasta can absorb liquid and become mushy when stored. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them just before serving. This helps maintain their texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup for days to come, making it a convenient and comforting meal option!

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds flavor. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup along with the broth and other ingredients. This makes the recipe even easier while still delivering a delicious meal.

2. What type of noodles can I use?

While egg noodles are traditional for chicken noodle soup, you can use any pasta you prefer. Options include:

  • Penne or Fusilli: These hold the broth well.
  • Spaghetti: Can be broken into smaller pieces for a different texture.
  • Rice noodles: A gluten-free alternative that works well, though you may need to adjust cooking times.

3. Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! To make a dairy-free version of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or coconut cream. You can also use unsweetened almond or oat milk to create a creamy texture without dairy. Adjust seasonings to enhance the flavor as needed.

See also  Taco Cupcakes

4. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Crack Chicken Noodle Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just remember that the noodles may become softer after freezing, so you might want to cook them separately and add them just before serving.

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Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

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This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup combines creamy broth, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and noodles with a hint of ranch seasoning. It’s a hearty and comforting soup, perfect for cozy nights or to warm up on a chilly day!

  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup, Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 8 oz thin spaghetti, angel hair pasta, or other noodles
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the Bacon:

    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon grease in the pot.

  • Sauté Vegetables:

    • Add the chopped celery and carrots to the pot with the bacon grease, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

  • Add Broth and Base Ingredients:

    • Stir in the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

  • Add Chicken and Simmer:

    • Add the shredded chicken and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  • Add Noodles and Cheese:

    • Break the noodles in half and add them to the pot. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.

  • Garnish and Serve:

    • Add the crumbled bacon back to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
  • Make it in a Crockpot: Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Variations: Substitute noodles with rice for a different texture, or add a handful of fresh spinach for extra greens.

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