Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Cozy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

Whipping up a hearty crack chicken noodle soup promises pure comfort on chilly evenings.

Creamy textures and bold flavors define this crowd-pleasing dish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Packed with tender chicken and rich seasonings, the recipe delivers an irresistible blend of warmth and satisfaction.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this soup checks all the right boxes.

Cheesy, zesty ingredients meld together to create a meal you’ll want to savor slowly.

Families and friends will gather around the table, eager to dig into this delectable creation.

Let’s dive into a recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Tasty Changes For Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup: Replace egg noodles with rice noodles or spiralized zucchini, ensuring a wheat-free alternative for gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast, creating a creamy consistency without dairy products.
  • Vegetarian Protein Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, maintaining the soup's hearty texture and protein content while offering a plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Use cauliflower rice instead of noodles and increase vegetable content, transforming the recipe into a low-carbohydrate friendly meal that fits ketogenic dietary requirements.

Best Matches For Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Pair Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup with Crisp White Wine: A light, zesty Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the soup's richness and complements its creamy texture.
  • Create Rustic Bread Accompaniment: Serve a warm, crusty sourdough or French baguette to soak up the flavorful broth and add delightful textural contrast.
  • Match with Fresh, Herbal Salad: Prepare a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a bright, tangy counterpoint to the soup's creamy depth.
  • Enhance with Sparkling Beverage Pairing: Choose a crisp sparkling water with lemon or a light wheat beer to refresh the palate between spoonfuls of the comforting soup.

How To Store Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it cools completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion, and freeze for 2-3 months without adding noodles to maintain texture.
  • Transfer desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly and prevent cold spots.
  • Gently warm soup in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent scorching, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Your Questions About Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

  • What makes this chicken noodle soup different from traditional recipes?

This version combines rotisserie chicken with freshly seared chicken breasts, creating a more robust flavor profile and adding extra texture to the soup.

  • Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like wide egg noodles, shell pasta, or even gluten-free alternatives depending on your preference.

  • Is this soup considered a complete meal?

Absolutely! The soup contains protein from chicken, vegetables, and a creamy base, making it a hearty and nutritious one-pot meal that satisfies hunger and provides balanced nutrition.

  • How can I make this soup healthier?

You can reduce the cream content by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or replace some cream with Greek yogurt to lower calories while maintaining a creamy texture.

Why Folks Love Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Tackle Hearty Comfort: A classic chicken noodle soup elevated with creamy ranch and bacon for maximum satisfaction.
  • Create One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required with everything cooked in a single Dutch oven, reducing kitchen mess and saving precious time.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like adding different vegetables or using rotisserie chicken makes this recipe adaptable for busy home cooks.
  • Boost Flavor Complexity: Ranch seasoning and bacon bits transform traditional soup into a gourmet experience with layers of savory goodness.

What Goes In Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

For the Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender meat that serves as the primary protein source for the soup.
  • Rotisserie Chicken: Pre-cooked chicken that adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.
For the Aromatics:
  • Onions, Carrots, Celery: A classic mirepoix that provides a flavor base and depth to the soup.
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic element to enhance the overall taste profile.
For the Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Dried Thyme, Parsley: Herbs that contribute earthy and fresh notes to the soup.
  • Ranch Seasoning Mix: Provides a tangy and herbal flavor boost to the dish.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste.
For the Liquid and Creamy Components:
  • Chicken Broth: Creates the foundational liquid base for the soup.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creates a luxurious, creamy texture.
  • Heavy Cream: Contributes to the smooth and velvety consistency of the soup.
For the Pasta:
  • Egg Noodles: Provides a classic pasta element that absorbs the flavorful broth.
For the Garnish:
  • Fresh Chives, Bacon Bits: Adds a final layer of flavor and textural contrast.
For the Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: Used for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables.

How To Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Easily

Step 1: Sizzle Chicken in Hot Pot

Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drizzle olive oil to create a perfect searing surface for chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt and pepper over chicken, then cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown with a delicious crust.

Step 2: Saute Aromatic Vegetables

Remove chicken and set aside. Toss into the same pot:
  • Diced onions
  • Chopped carrots
  • Sliced celery

Cook vegetables for 5-6 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

Step 3: Awaken Garlic Flavors

Mince garlic and stir into vegetable mixture. Cook for 30 seconds to release intense aromatics without burning.

Step 4: Build Soup Foundation

Pour chicken broth into the pot. Scrape browned bits from bottom to create a rich flavor base.

Step 5: Combine Chicken Varieties

Slice seared chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Return to pot with shredded rotisserie chicken.

Step 6: Season and Spice

Add:
  • Dried thyme
  • Fresh parsley
  • Ranch seasoning mix

Stir thoroughly to distribute herbs and spices evenly.

Step 7: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Bring mixture to a rolling boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to blend and chicken to become tender.

Step 8: Cook Noodles to Perfection

Add egg noodles and cook for 6-8 minutes until they reach al dente texture with a slight bite.

Step 9: Create Creamy Texture

Lower heat. Stir in:
  • Cream cheese
  • Heavy cream

Mix continuously until cream cheese melts completely, creating a luxurious, smooth consistency.

Step 10: Final Seasoning and Taste

Adjust salt and pepper to your preference. Taste and fine-tune flavors.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Top with:
  • Freshly chopped chives
  • Crispy bacon bits

Serve immediately while steaming hot, ready to comfort and delight.

Tips That Help With Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Sear Chicken Strategically: Brown chicken breasts over medium-high heat to lock in deep, rich flavors and create a delectable golden exterior.
  • Vegetable Timing Matters: Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until translucent to build a robust flavor foundation for the soup's base.
  • Prevent Garlic Burning: Add minced garlic for just 30 seconds to release aromatic oils without scorching and creating bitter undertones.
  • Cream Cheese Melting Technique: Stir cream cheese continuously into low-heated soup to ensure smooth, lump-free integration and creamy consistency.
  • Noodle Texture Perfection: Cook egg noodles precisely 6-8 minutes to maintain ideal al dente texture with slight resistance when biting.
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Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Crack chicken noodle soup brings comfort and excitement to classic comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and hearty noodles. Creamy, rich flavors and simple ingredients make this soup a crowd-pleasing dish you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein and Noodles:

  • 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skinless
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Toppings:

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
  • 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Preheat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to medium-high heat, adding olive oil to create a sizzling surface for searing chicken breasts.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then carefully sear each piece for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and developing a rich exterior crust.
  3. Remove chicken and set aside, then introduce diced onions, carrots, and celery into the same pot, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Mince garlic and stir into the vegetable mixture, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release aromatic oils without burning.
  5. Pour chicken broth into the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom to infuse deep flavor into the liquid base.
  6. Slice seared chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot along with shredded rotisserie chicken.
  7. Add dried thyme, parsley, and ranch seasoning mix, stirring to distribute herbs and spices evenly throughout the soup.
  8. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to become tender.
  9. Introduce egg noodles and cook for 6-8 minutes until perfectly al dente, maintaining a slight resistance when bitten.
  10. Reduce heat to low and incorporate cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  12. Ladle soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chives and crispy bacon bits for added crunch and flavor complexity.
  13. Serve immediately while piping hot, enjoying the rich, comforting blend of creamy broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles.

Notes

  • Swap chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation and deeper flavor profile.
  • Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free alternatives like zucchini noodles or rice noodles for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Create a lighter version by using low-fat cream cheese and half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce overall calorie content.
  • Enhance meal prep by cooking the soup in advance and storing in airtight containers for up to 4 days, allowing flavors to develop even more intensely.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 950 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

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