On a chilly evening, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of soup. I recently crafted a delightful rendition of Crack Chicken Soup that has quickly become my go-to for cozy dinners and busy weeknights. Picture this: creamy textures blending perfectly with tender chicken, smoky bacon, and melted cheddar, all enveloped in a rich, velvety broth infused with ranch seasoning. It’s a dish that hugs you from the inside out and brings smiles around the dinner table.
What makes this soup so special is not just its flavor but its versatility. Whether you’re leaning towards a low-carb option by swapping in zucchini noodles or ramping up the veggies with a handful of spinach, this soup can easily adapt to your preferences. Join me as we dive into this creamy goodness that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal, perfect for the whole family!
Why is CRACK CHICKEN SOUP So Amazing?
Comforting, this soup wraps you in warmth and flavor on cold days. Creamy texture from cream cheese and whole milk melds beautifully with tender chicken and crispy bacon. Versatile options let you make it keto-friendly or add extra veggies to suit your diet. Quick to prepare, it combines easily in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Crowd-pleasing, it’s bound to be a hit at any dinner table, providing an experience that feels both indulgent and homely.
CRACK CHICKEN SOUP Ingredients
For the Soup
• Cooked Shredded Chicken Breast – Provides lean protein and a tender texture; substitute leftover shredded turkey for a post-holiday variant.
• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – Creates a creamy broth and enhances herby chicken flavor.
• Low Sodium Chicken Stock – Serves as the flavorful soup base; using low-sodium helps control salt levels.
• Whole Milk – Adds creaminess to balance the chicken flavor and broth.
• Cream Cheese – Boosts the creamy texture while enriching the soup.
• Diced Carrots and Celery – Adds color, sweetness, and familiar vegetable flavors to the soup.
• Onion – Provides aromatic depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Bacon – Delivers a smoky, salty element when cooked until crispy.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix – Infuses the soup with tangy, herby flavors that tie all ingredients together, making this Crack Chicken Soup irresistible.
• Minced Garlic – Introduces savory depth and aroma.
• Garlic Powder – Provides an additional layer of garlic flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the soup for a rich, cheesy texture.
• Angel Hair Pasta – Contributes a delicate noodle element that absorbs the creamy broth.
For Serving
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious soup!
• Fresh Green Salad – Balances the meal with a crisp, refreshing touch.
How to Make Crack Chicken Soup
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place crispy bacon to bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crunchy. Once done, chop into pieces.
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Bake chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until thoroughly cooked; allow to cool and then shred into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté onion, celery, and diced carrots in a stockpot with olive oil or butter over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
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Whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and whole milk in a bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the stockpot along with low sodium chicken stock, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and the softened cream cheese; stir until well combined.
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Combine the shredded chicken and crispy bacon with the soup mixture, letting it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld those irresistible flavors together.
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Add broken angel hair pasta into the pot and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender and fully incorporated into the creamy broth.
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Melt in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it gives the soup a rich, creamy texture. Serve hot with your choice of optional toppings.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Soup?
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful pairings that complement the luscious, creamy goodness of this comforting soup.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the smooth texture of the soup.
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Fresh Green Salad: A refreshing contrast, a crisp salad enhances the meal’s balance while providing a garden-fresh touch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies bring a natural sweetness and earthy flavor that beautifully rounds out the rich soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: This warm, buttery delight makes for a perfect companion to scoop up every bit of that creamy broth.
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Cheddar Bay Biscuits: With their fluffy texture and cheesy flavor, these biscuits elevate your dining experience alongside the soup.
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Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, enhancing the overall dining experience with its crispness.
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Dessert Parfait: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a layered fruit parfait that contrasts the savory soup and offers a light, refreshing bite.
Expert Tips for CRACK CHICKEN SOUP
- Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is shredded thoroughly for even distribution in the soup. Using leftover chicken saves time and enhances flavor.
- Mixing Cream Cheese: Stir the cream cheese into the broth gradually to prevent clumping; this ensures a smooth, creamy texture throughout your Crack Chicken Soup.
- Adjusting Consistency: Feel free to modify the thickness by adding more chicken stock or milk if the soup becomes too thick, achieving your preferred creaminess.
- Vegetable Options: Add extra vegetables like spinach or peas towards the end of cooking for a nutrient boost, enhancing both flavor and color.
- Storage Tips: If storing leftovers, avoid adding pasta to the whole batch. Add fresh pasta when reheating to keep it tender and delicious.
How to Store and Freeze Crack Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve flavor and freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the soup (without angel hair pasta) in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with a date for your convenience.
Reheating: Reheat thawed soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through. Add fresh cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Extra Tip: Always allow the soup to cool before storage to prevent condensation and maintain quality in your Crack Chicken Soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Crack Chicken Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the soup base without the pasta up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook and cool the soup, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its creamy texture, make sure to reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if necessary. When you’re ready to serve, just boil some angel hair pasta separately and stir it into the warmed soup. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort, making your weeknights smoother and delicious!
CRACK CHICKEN SOUP Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to enhance your soup experience and make it uniquely yours!
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Keto Option: Swap angel hair pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
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Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that tantalizes the taste buds. A hint of heat can elevate the entire dish!
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach, kale, or peas to foster vibrant nutrition without compromising flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in more greens!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk along with dairy-free cream cheese and cheese to create a creamy experience without the dairy.
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Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the soup while providing a fresh flavor burst. A sprinkle on top enhances the aroma, making each bite enchanting.
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Smoky Flavor: Consider adding smoked paprika instead of regular for an extra layer of richness. The smokiness harmonizes beautifully with the bacon and chicken.
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Extra Creamy: For those who love decadence, mix in an additional block of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture. You won’t regret this luxurious addition!
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Broth Boost: Enhance the broth by incorporating a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for depth. The tangy flavor will cut through the creaminess in a delightful way.
Crack Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Crack Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using cooked shredded chicken breast. If you have leftovers from a roast or even shredded turkey, those work beautifully too! They add a lovely richness to the soup.
How long can I store Crack Chicken Soup in the fridge?
You can store your delicious Crack Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it, so it stays fresh and tasty!
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, avoid adding the angel hair pasta. Instead, let the soup cool, then pour it into airtight containers, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why did my soup turn out too thick?
If your Crack Chicken Soup becomes too thick, no worries! You can adjust the consistency easily. Simply stir in a bit more low sodium chicken stock or whole milk to your desired thickness. Remember, it’s all about getting that perfect creamy texture!
Is this soup safe for pets?
Not really! While the ingredients in Crack Chicken Soup are wholesome, the soup contains seasonings and onions that can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep this delicious treat just for you and your family.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese if I want a dairy-free option?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free version of Crack Chicken Soup, I often use coconut milk or almond milk combined with dairy-free cream cheese. This way, you still get that creamy richness without the dairy! Enjoy experimenting!
Creamy Crack Chicken Soup That Warms Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place crispy bacon to bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and crunchy. Once done, chop into pieces.
- Bake chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until thoroughly cooked; allow to cool and then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté onion, celery, and diced carrots in a stockpot with olive oil or butter over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and whole milk in a bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the stockpot along with low sodium chicken stock, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and the softened cream cheese; stir until well combined.
- Combine the shredded chicken and crispy bacon with the soup mixture, letting it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld those flavors together.
- Add broken angel hair pasta into the pot and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender.
- Melt in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it gives the soup a rich, creamy texture. Serve hot with your choice of optional toppings.