Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Introduction

Crack chicken noodle soup is a deliciously creamy and savory take on the classic chicken noodle soup that has gained immense popularity for its addictive combination of flavors. This comforting dish is loaded with tender shredded chicken, hearty noodles, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored broth. It’s often referred to as “crack” chicken due to its irresistible flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, and it can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs or cooking methods like the slow cooker or Instant Pot. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make this mouthwatering soup from scratch, offer tips for customization, and share answers to common questions about this popular dish.

What is Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?

Crack chicken noodle soup is a hearty, creamy variation of traditional chicken noodle soup, combining some of the best comfort food ingredients into one delicious dish. It features shredded chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, cheese, and egg noodles, all cooked in a rich, creamy broth. The dish gets its “crack” moniker from its addictive blend of flavors, similar to other popular recipes like crack chicken or crack dip.

The term “crack” in this context refers to how people can’t seem to get enough of the dish, thanks to its savory combination of bacon, creamy ranch, and cheese, making it a fan-favorite comfort meal. Unlike the lighter, broth-based chicken noodle soup, this version is richer and heartier, perfect for those looking for something a bit more indulgent during the colder months or whenever a filling meal is needed.

How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

Making crack chicken noodle soup from scratch is easy and requires just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s how you can prepare this comforting dish step by step.

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups chicken broth
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
3 cups egg noodles
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken breasts and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside.
Prepare the broth: In the same pot, whisk in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the broth. Add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine.
Add the noodles: Bring the mixture back to a boil and add the egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
Finish the soup: Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and heavy cream. Let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Noodles:

For the chicken: You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time, or poach the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to make the soup.
For the noodles: If you prefer, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Cook the pasta separately if you plan to freeze the soup, as noodles tend to get mushy after freezing.

Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Crack chicken noodle soup can be easily adapted for both slow cooker and Instant Pot methods, making it even more convenient for busy days. Here’s how you can prepare it using these popular kitchen appliances.

How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup in a Slow Cooker

Prepare the ingredients: Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder into the slow cooker.
Cook on low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If you’re in a hurry, you can also cook it on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon. Let everything cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the soup is creamy and well combined.
Cook the noodles separately: While the soup is finishing up, cook the egg noodles separately on the stovetop according to package directions. Once done, stir the noodles into the slow cooker just before serving to avoid them becoming too soft.

How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup in an Instant Pot

Prepare the base: Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder to the Instant Pot.
Pressure cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure. Cook for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release to release the pressure.
Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot.
Add noodles and remaining ingredients: Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Add the egg noodles and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the soup is creamy.

Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot

Slow Cooker: Ideal for prepping in the morning and having a meal ready by dinner, the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld over time and keeps the chicken incredibly tender.
Instant Pot: Perfect for those days when you’re short on time, the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process without sacrificing flavor, giving you a creamy, hearty soup in less than an hour.

Variations and Substitutions for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Crack chicken noodle soup is highly customizable, making it easy to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some popular variations and substitutions you can try to make the dish your own.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions

Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: To make this soup low-carb or keto-friendly, you can replace the egg noodles with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash. Both options provide a lighter texture while keeping the soup hearty and satisfying.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta, or use rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Be sure to check that the ranch seasoning mix is also gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, replace the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. You can use a dairy-free ranch seasoning and vegan cheddar cheese to maintain the creamy, cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Creative Variations

Add Vegetables: To pack more nutrients into the soup, consider adding vegetables like spinach, carrots, or celery. Stir in fresh spinach at the end of cooking for extra color and nutrition, or sauté diced carrots and celery in the broth for a heartier texture.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. This will give the soup a spicy kick while keeping its creamy richness intact.
Bacon Alternatives: For a lighter option, swap the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether. You can also use ham or prosciutto for a different savory flavor profile.

Suggestions for Making the Soup Creamier or Lighter

Creamier Soup: For an even richer, creamier consistency, you can double the amount of cream cheese and heavy cream. You can also blend a portion of the soup in a blender before stirring it back in to thicken the texture without adding extra dairy.
Lighter Soup: If you prefer a lighter version of crack chicken noodle soup, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also skip the cheese or reduce the amount for a less indulgent option without losing the soup’s core flavor.

What to Serve with Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing your crack chicken noodle soup with the right side dish can elevate the meal. Here are some great accompaniments:

Crusty Bread

A hearty soup like crack chicken noodle soup begs for a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy broth. Whether you prefer a classic French baguette, sourdough, or homemade dinner rolls, bread adds the perfect texture contrast.

Side Salad

For a lighter, fresher contrast to the richness of the soup, pair it with a simple side salad. A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess of the soup, offering balance to the meal.

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are another great option for dipping into the soup. The garlicky, buttery flavor pairs well with the ranch seasoning and bacon, making each bite more indulgent.

Grilled Cheese

For an ultra-comforting combination, serve the soup alongside a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The melty, toasted sandwich provides extra cheese goodness that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.

How to Store and Reheat Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Crack chicken noodle soup can easily be stored and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly and reheat it for the best flavor and texture.

Proper Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze the broth and chicken mixture without the noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated. Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty ziplock bag for up to 3 months. You can cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve the soup.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop: For the best results, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you can add a bit of chicken broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Microwave: You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fully heated. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.

Can You Freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes, you can freeze crack chicken noodle soup, but it’s recommended to freeze it without the noodles. The texture of the noodles tends to break down when frozen and reheated, resulting in a mushy consistency. To avoid this, prepare and freeze the broth, chicken, and cheese mixture, then add fresh-cooked noodles when you’re ready to eat.

Nutritional Information for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Crack chicken noodle soup is a rich and hearty dish, making it a satisfying meal. However, it’s important to be aware of its nutritional content, especially if you’re mindful of calorie intake or specific dietary needs.

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

Calories: 450-500 kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 30g
- Saturated fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 900mg

This nutritional information is based on a standard serving size and includes ingredients like cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and egg noodles. The calorie count and fat content are higher due to the use of creamy and cheesy ingredients, making this dish indulgent and filling.

How to Make It Healthier Without Losing Flavor

If you’d like to enjoy crack chicken noodle soup while keeping it a bit lighter, here are a few simple adjustments:

Reduce the heavy cream: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to cut down on fat and calories.
Use low-fat cheese: Opt for reduced-fat cheddar or a dairy-free cheese to lower the fat content without compromising on flavor.
Swap noodles: Use whole wheat noodles or vegetable-based alternatives like zucchini noodles for added fiber and fewer carbs.
Add vegetables: Incorporate more vegetables like spinach, carrots, or celery to increase the nutritional value without drastically changing the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have about crack chicken noodle soup, along with helpful answers to guide you.

FAQ 1: What is crack chicken noodle soup, and why is it called “crack” chicken?

Crack chicken noodle soup is a rich and creamy version of chicken noodle soup, made with ranch seasoning, bacon, cheddar cheese, and cream. The term “crack” refers to the addictive combination of flavors, particularly the savory mix of bacon, ranch, and cheese, which makes the dish incredibly satisfying and hard to resist.

FAQ 2: How do you make crack chicken noodle soup from scratch?

To make crack chicken noodle soup from scratch, cook chicken breasts in chicken broth, shred the chicken, and combine it with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, bacon, and egg noodles in a creamy broth. For a detailed step-by-step recipe, refer to the section above.

FAQ 3: Can you make crack chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! Crack chicken noodle soup can be made in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Each method has its own benefits: the slow cooker allows for a hands-off approach, while the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process. For instructions on how to prepare the soup using these appliances, check the relevant section above.

FAQ 4: What are some variations or substitutions for crack chicken noodle soup?

There are many ways to customize crack chicken noodle soup to suit your dietary needs or preferences. You can make it low-carb by swapping noodles for zucchini noodles, gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta, or dairy-free by substituting cream cheese and cheddar with non-dairy alternatives. Additionally, you can add vegetables or spices to change the flavor profile.

FAQ 5: Can I make crack chicken noodle soup without bacon?

Yes! If you’re looking to skip the bacon, you can still make a delicious crack chicken noodle soup. You can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika to maintain a smoky flavor, or simply omit it if you prefer a lighter version of the dish.

FAQ 6: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the final steps of cooking. This method eliminates the need to cook raw chicken, making the recipe even quicker to prepare.

Final Thoughts on Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Crack chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of creamy chicken, savory bacon, and the familiar taste of ranch seasoning. Whether you’re making it on a busy weeknight or preparing it ahead of time for meal prep, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With plenty of variations and options for customization, you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your dietary preferences or switch it up based on what you have in your pantry.

Not only is crack chicken noodle soup easy to make, but it’s also the perfect way to warm up on cold days or satisfy a craving for something rich and flavorful. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, you’re missing out on a truly delicious experience! how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your favorite variations or substitutions, and enjoy this cozy meal with your loved ones.