Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a creamy, hearty, and flavor-packed soup that combines the timeless appeal of chicken noodle soup with a decadent twist of cheese, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving something cozy and indulgent, this soup is sure to hit the spot. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and the rich, cheesy broth makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a satisfying dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package ranch seasoning mix
- 4 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup carrots (sliced)
- 1 cup celery (sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked chicken, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Let the cheese melt and blend into the broth.
- Add crumbled bacon and stir to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy hot!
How to Prepare
- Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice the vegetables, shred the chicken, and cook and crumble the bacon.
- Have all your ingredients measured and ready to make cooking smooth and hassle-free.
- Follow the directions carefully, paying attention to the timing for adding ingredients to ensure perfectly cooked noodles and a creamy, cohesive broth.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Serves 6 people as a main course.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles and ensure your ranch seasoning is gluten-free.
3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup may be less creamy.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze cream-based soups, as the texture may change upon thawing. If you must freeze, omit the noodles and cream and add them fresh when reheating.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is comfort food at its finest, blending the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon with the classic warmth of chicken noodle soup. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, offering a hearty and satisfying meal for the whole family. Customize it to your preferences by adding extra veggies, swapping out noodles, or adjusting the seasoning. Whether you’re battling the cold or simply craving something indulgent, this soup is a guaranteed winner. Try it today, and watch as it becomes a go-to favorite in your recipe collection!