Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked, shredded, or chopped chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works well); 1 (10.5 oz.) can condensed chicken soup; 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup chopped celery; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 1 (1 oz.) packet Ranch dressing mix; 12 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese; 3/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 8 oz. thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, uncooked

Isabella

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Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the epitome of comfort food. This creamy, cheesy soup combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and the zesty flavor of Ranch seasoning, creating a rich dish that warms you up from the inside out. Perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave something hearty, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

3 cups cooked, shredded, or chopped chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works well)

1 (10.5 oz.) can condensed chicken soup

6 cups low-sodium chicken stock

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup chopped celery

2 medium carrots, sliced

1 (1 oz.) packet Ranch dressing mix

12 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese

3/4 cup cream cheese, softened

8 oz. thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, uncooked

Directions:

Prepare the Bacon:

Cook the bacon until crispy. Drain and crumble it, setting it aside for later.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large Dutch oven, mix together the chicken, condensed soup, chicken stock, milk, cream cheese, sliced carrots, chopped celery, Ranch dressing mix, and crumbled bacon. Bring this delicious mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Simmer the Soup:

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Noodles and Cheese:

Stir in the uncooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to simmer until the noodles are fully cooked, which should take about 10 minutes.

Serve:

Garnish with extra crumbled bacon if desired and serve warm. Enjoy the comforting aroma and delicious flavors of your homemade soup!

Serving Tips:

Garnish: Enhance the soup’s flavor and presentation by garnishing with extra crumbled bacon, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Temperature: Enjoy the soup warm for the best flavor. If serving at a gathering, consider keeping it in a slow cooker on the warm setting to maintain its temperature.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to omit the noodles if you plan to freeze it, as they can become mushy when reheated. Instead, add freshly cooked noodles when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Heat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If reheating from the refrigerator, it can be heated in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.

Texture Adjustment: If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of chicken stock or milk while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

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FAQs:

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast! Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding or chopping. You may want to cook it separately in the Instant Pot or boil it first, then shred it and add it to the soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just let it cool, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Is there a way to make this soup lighter?

Yes! To lighten the soup, you can use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk, and reduce the amount of cream cheese or use a lighter version. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?

This soup pairs well with various sides, such as crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with crackers or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a must-try for any soup lover. Whether you’re facing a cold day or simply need a warm, hearty meal, this recipe has you covered. Try it today and discover why it’s called “Crack” Chicken!