Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a beloved, creamy and hearty soup that has taken kitchens by storm, especially during the chilly winter months. This soup combines a mouthwatering blend of chicken, noodles, cheese, and bacon, making it a family favorite and a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge in a comforting meal. Whether you’re gathering around the table with loved ones or just craving something warm and satisfying, this soup has all the right flavors and textures.
What Makes This Soup So Special?
This isn’t just any chicken noodle soup; Crack Chicken Noodle Soup stands out because of its rich, velvety base created with cream cheese and shredded cheddar. These ingredients melt into the broth, adding a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and savory egg noodles. The addition of turkey bacon provides a smoky, crispy element, while the herbs and spices give it a well-rounded flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
Key Ingredients and Their Role in the Recipe
Each ingredient in Crack Chicken Noodle Soup plays a specific role in creating its signature taste. Here’s a breakdown of the main ingredients and why they’re essential for the recipe.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, it enhances the flavor and provides a healthy source of fat.
- Onion, Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: These form the classic aromatic base that adds depth to the soup. The onion and garlic add a savory note, while carrots and celery bring a mild sweetness and texture that balance out the richness of the broth.
- Chicken Broth: This forms the backbone of the soup, adding flavor and creating a warm, savory base. If you’re watching your salt intake, try using a low-sodium broth.
- Shredded Chicken: Adds protein and texture. For convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken.
- Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese: The cream cheese melts into the broth, creating a rich, creamy texture, while the cheddar cheese brings a slightly sharp, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Dried Dill and Parsley: These herbs add a subtle earthiness and help balance the creaminess. Dill especially complements chicken, adding a unique, comforting aroma.
- Egg Noodles: These hearty noodles absorb the flavors of the soup and serve as the main carbohydrate component, making the dish more filling and satisfying.
- Turkey Bacon: Provides a smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture. Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to regular bacon, making it a healthier choice.
- Fresh Parsley: Garnish for added color and a touch of freshness that elevates the presentation.
Nutrition and Health Benefits of Ingredients
Not only is Crack Chicken Noodle Soup delicious, but it also packs a variety of nutrients from each ingredient. Here’s a quick look at the health benefits:
- Protein-Packed Chicken: With shredded chicken as the primary protein source, this soup supports muscle health and helps keep you full longer.
- Fiber-Rich Vegetables: Carrots and celery bring fiber to the dish, supporting digestion and adding a dose of essential vitamins like Vitamin A (from carrots) for immune support.
- Healthy Fats from Olive Oil: Adding olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to be heart-healthy and good for maintaining cholesterol levels.
- Calcium and Vitamin D from Cheeses: The cheddar and cream cheese contribute calcium, promoting bone health, and adding a satisfying richness to the soup.
Incorporating these nutrient-dense ingredients makes this soup not only delicious but also beneficial for health. Adding herbs like dill and parsley also provides antioxidants and contributes to the soup’s overall nutritional value.
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup recipe brings warmth, comfort, and nutrition in every bowl, making it an excellent addition to your winter recipe collection.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
1. Sauté Vegetables
Start by sautéing vegetables to create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Instructions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Add minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, and continue to sauté for another 3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Pro Tip: A properly cooked aromatic soup base adds depth to the entire dish, so don’t rush this step.
2. Add Broth and Chicken
After sautéing, it’s time to add the chicken broth and shredded chicken.
- Instructions: Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth (for a lower-sodium option, choose low-sodium broth). Add the shredded cooked chicken and stir well. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Tip: Seasoning your broth well at this stage is crucial for a balanced flavor. Check the salt and add more if needed to create a well-seasoned chicken broth soup.
For a breakdown of nutritional benefits of chicken soup, check out Healthline’s Chicken Soup Benefits.
3. Incorporate Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese
The cream cheese and cheddar cheese are what make this soup so rich and creamy.
- Instructions: Reduce the heat to low, then add the 8 oz of cubed cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and blended into the broth, creating a smooth texture. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
- Tip: To avoid clumping, make sure your cream cheese is softened, and stir slowly to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
4. Season the Soup
Adding seasonings like dried dill and parsley enhances the flavors of this soup.
- Instructions: Add ½ teaspoon each of dried dill and dried parsley, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and taste the soup, adjusting seasonings as needed.
- Tip: Dill pairs particularly well with chicken, lending a subtle yet distinct flavor. This step ensures your perfectly seasoned chicken soup has balanced and robust flavors.
5. Cook Noodles in Soup
Cooking the noodles directly in the soup allows them to soak up the flavors.
- Instructions: Add 1½ cups of egg noodles and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Tip: Cooking the noodles in the broth infuses them with flavor and ensures a tender noodle texture that complements the creamy base.
6. Add Turkey Bacon and Final Touches
Adding turkey bacon at the end gives this soup a smoky finish.
- Instructions: Stir in ½ cup of cooked, crumbled turkey bacon and let it warm through. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Tip: Bacon as a soup topping adds a delightful crunch and richness that completes the dish.
Tips and Variations
If you want to customize your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, here are some ideas:
- Protein Options: Substitute the chicken with turkey for a leaner protein.
- Vegetable Additions: Add other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Creaminess Adjustments: For a lighter soup, use half the cream cheese or substitute with a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Noodle Alternatives: You can also experiment with different noodles like rice noodles or gluten-free options if you have dietary restrictions. For inspiration, explore alternative noodle options for soups on Eat This, Not That!.
These soup recipe variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your personal taste and dietary needs, keeping it both delicious and versatile.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Here are some serving ideas:
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a light side salad for a balanced meal.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; however, let it cool completely before transferring to the freezer. When ready to reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove. For more tips on freezing soups, refer to The Kitchn’s guide on freezing soups.
FAQs Section
1. What makes this soup “crack” chicken noodle soup?
This soup is often called “crack” chicken noodle soup due to its addictive combination of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors. The mix of cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon makes it hard to resist!
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other types, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a slightly different taste and texture.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of egg noodles. Be sure to check all other ingredients, especially the broth and seasonings, for any hidden gluten.
4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Add all ingredients except for the noodles and cheese to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add the noodles and cheese in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
5. How do I make this soup healthier?
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheddar, and omit or reduce the bacon. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or kale, for added nutrients.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate winter comfort food, offering warmth and rich flavors that make it a favorite for the entire family. This creamy chicken noodle soup combines the heartiness of a classic chicken noodle with the richness of cheddar and cream cheese, making it a perfect meal for cozy days. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your personal touch, this soup is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy this recipe as part of your go-to comfort food collection, perfect for any cold day when you need something warm, filling, and delicious.
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Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comfort Food Favorite
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a creamy, hearty blend of shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and turkey bacon. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on cold days and sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth (or low-sodium broth)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or any noodle of choice)
- 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, cooking until softened (about 4-5 minutes). Add minced garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for 3 more minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in chicken broth, add shredded chicken, and stir. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add cubed cream cheese, stirring until it melts and blends smoothly.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Mix in cheddar cheese, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese melts and is well incorporated.
- Cook Noodles: Add egg noodles and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until tender.
- Add Turkey Bacon: Stir in crumbled turkey bacon, letting it warm through.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles.
- Substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon if preferred.
- Adjust the creaminess by reducing the cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
Keywords: Creamy chicken soup, chicken noodle comfort soup, cheesy chicken noodle soup, winter soup recipe