Description
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a creamy, comforting dish packed with chicken, noodles, and a cheesy, savory broth that will make you want seconds (and thirds!). Inspired by the popular “crack chicken” recipe, it’s loaded with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon for a rich and decadent soup that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 2–3 breasts)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (dry)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added veggies)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (or 1/2 cup bacon bits)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken breasts and chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
To the same pot, add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese begins to melt and form a smooth, creamy base.
Add the egg noodles (or pasta of your choice) to the pot, and stir to combine. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook the noodles for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender. If you’re adding frozen peas, toss them in along with the noodles for the last few minutes of cooking.
Once the noodles are cooked, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir to combine, then add the crumbled bacon. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
For an extra creamy and cheesy soup, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt into the soup.
Notes
- Make It Healthier – Use low-fat cream cheese and whole wheat pasta for a lighter version of this soup.
- Add Veggies – You can throw in some carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat.
- Slow Cooker Version – For a hands-off approach, cook the chicken in the slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low. After the chicken is cooked and shredded, add the other ingredients and let it cook for an additional hour on low.