Cozy Hearty Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Cold Days

Comfort arrives in a steaming bowl of crack chicken noodle soup that promises pure culinary magic.

Cold days call for warm, soul-soothing meals packed with rich flavors.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among perfectly cooked noodles, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Each spoonful delivers a hearty blend of savory broth and delectable ingredients.

The recipe brings together simple components that transform into an extraordinary meal.

Creamy, satisfying, and utterly delicious, this soup stands ready to become your new favorite cold-weather companion.

You won’t be able to resist seconds of this irresistible comfort classic.

Ingredients for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

• Bacon: Adds smoky depth and crispy texture, choose thick-cut for maximum crunch.
• Chicken: Provides hearty protein, use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience.
• Cream Cheese: Brings rich, velvety smoothness to the soup, opt for full-fat version.

• Celery: Offers fresh, light crunch and aromatic base, select crisp stalks.
• Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color, choose firm, bright orange vegetables.

• Chicken Broth: Creates foundational soup flavor, select low-sodium for better control.
• Milk: Enhances creaminess and softens soup's texture, whole milk recommended.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides instant thickness and savory undertones.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: Introduces tangy, herbal notes, ensures consistent flavor profile.

• Egg Noodles: Delivers classic comfort texture, break in half for easier eating.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, adds sharp, rich cheese flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Brightens presentation and adds fresh herbal finish.
• Salt and Pepper: Customizes final seasoning to personal preference.

Tools That Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Easier

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for cooking bacon, sautéing vegetables, and preparing the entire soup.
• Cutting Board: Perfect for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for slicing celery, carrots, and chopping bacon.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cheese Grater: Helpful for shredding cheddar cheese.
• Colander or Strainer: Optional for draining any excess liquid from chicken.

How to Prepare Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

• Crisp the Bacon

Sizzle bacon in a large pot until golden and crunchy. Pull out the crispy pieces and keep the tasty drippings behind.

• Soften the Veggies

Toss chopped celery and carrots into the bacon grease. Let them dance and soften for about 5 minutes, releasing their delicious flavors.

• Build the Soup Base

Pour in chicken broth, splash of milk, and cream of chicken soup. Blend in cream cheese and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.

• Simmer the Protein

Drop shredded chicken into the bubbling mixture. Let everything simmer gently, allowing flavors to get cozy and mingle for 10-15 minutes.

• Add Noodle

Break noodles in half and toss them into the pot. Cook until they’re perfectly tender, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in shredded cheddar and watch it melt into silky goodness.

• Finish and Serve

Scatter crispy bacon bits on top. Season with salt and pepper. Optional parsley adds a fresh pop of color. Ladle into bowls and enjoy the comfort!

Flavor Additions for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

• Crisp the bacon extra well for a more intense flavor boost and satisfying crunch throughout the soup.
• Prepare the soup base a day ahead and store in the refrigerator, which allows flavors to develop even more deeply.
• Swap regular noodles with gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles to accommodate gluten-sensitive diets without compromising taste.
• Replace chicken with rotisserie turkey or plant-based chicken alternatives for different protein options that work perfectly in this versatile recipe.
• Add extra vegetables like diced zucchini or spinach to increase nutritional value and create a more colorful, hearty soup experience.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Warm

• Cozy Comfort Bowl: Serve this soup in deep ceramic mugs or rustic bowls to enhance the warm, homey feeling of the dish.
• Hearty Sidekick Pairing: Accompany the soup with crusty garlic bread, warm buttermilk biscuits, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that satisfies every hunger craving.
• Elegant Topping Tricks: Sprinkle additional crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or extra shredded cheddar cheese on top to add texture and create a restaurant-quality presentation that delights the eyes and taste buds.
• Family-Style Gathering: Present the soup in a large central serving dish with extra toppings on the side, allowing everyone to customize their bowl and enjoy a interactive, fun dining experience.

Store Crack Chicken Noodle Soup for Future Meals

• Keep your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup delicious and safe with these smart tips.
• Transfer cooled soup to airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the fridge for 3-4 days, maintaining optimal flavor and texture.
• Freeze soup without noodles for best results. Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen soup stays tasty for up to 3 months when properly sealed.
• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Divide soup into individual serving containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. Label with the date to track freshness and enjoy convenient meals throughout the week.

FAQs

• Why is it called Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?

The name comes from the addictive, irresistible flavor that makes people crave it repeatedly, similar to how crack chicken recipes are known for their highly enjoyable taste.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and can save you time in preparing the soup, providing the same delicious flavor and tender meat.

• Is this soup kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s an excellent kid-friendly recipe that combines familiar flavors like cheese, chicken, and bacon in a comforting, creamy soup that most children will enjoy.

• Can I make this soup ahead of time?

You can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it becomes too thick during storage.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 600 kcal

Servings: 7

Hearty Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Savory Crack Chicken Noodle Soup delivers comfort in a single spoonful, blending creamy textures with rich chicken flavor. Hearty ingredients and simple preparation make this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to share with family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups (710 ml) cooked shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 6 cups (1.4 l) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz/298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 8 oz (226 g) thin spaghetti, angel hair pasta, or other noodles
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) ranch seasoning mix
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bacon Preparation: Crisp bacon in a large pot until golden, remove and set aside, leaving a thin layer of rendered fat for cooking.
2. Vegetable Sauté: Introduce diced celery and carrots to the bacon-infused pot, cooking until vegetables soften and become translucent.
3. Liquid Base Creation: Pour chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and milk into the vegetable mixture, whisking to form a smooth, creamy foundation.
4. Cheese and Seasoning Integration: Blend softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning into the liquid, stirring until completely dissolved and thoroughly incorporated.
5. Chicken and Simmer Stage: Add shredded chicken to the simmering mixture, allowing flavors to meld for 10-12 minutes on gentle heat.
6. Noodle and Cheese Incorporation: Submerge noodles into the soup, stirring occasionally, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until pasta is tender and cheese melts completely.
7. Final Flourish: Garnish with reserved bacon pieces, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and optionally top with fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

• Select High-Quality Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispy texture, ensuring it renders properly and provides a rich base for the soup.
• Cream Cheese Melting Technique: Soften cream cheese at room temperature and whisk gradually to prevent lumps, creating a smooth and creamy soup consistency.
• Prevent Noodle Overcooking: Add noodles in the last 10-12 minutes of cooking to maintain perfect al dente texture and prevent mushiness, stirring occasionally to distribute evenly.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for lactose-free version; use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and noodles for celiac-friendly adaptation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg