Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Introduction

When I first tried making Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, I wasn’t sure if it could live up to its bold name, but it did not disappoint. The creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors of chicken, cheese, and herbs, created a soup that was not only incredibly comforting but also addicting. My family was hooked after the first spoonful, and the entire pot was gone in no time. The richness of the cream cheese and cheddar cheese gave it a velvety texture, while the noodles absorbed all the delicious flavors, making each bite irresistible. It’s the perfect soup to warm you up on a chilly day or when you need a little comfort food to make you feel good.

What I love most about this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is how simple and quick it is to prepare. It’s one of those recipes where you can throw everything together, let it cook, and in just under 40 minutes, you have a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it to your family for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this soup is sure to impress. The best part is how customizable it is. You can adjust the seasonings, cheese, and even the type of noodles based on your preferences.

Ingredients

To make this rich and creamy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need the following 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 your choice)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These simple ingredients combine to create a bowl of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Sauté Vegetables:

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for an additional 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the kitchen smells amazing.

1. Add Broth and Chicken:

• Pour in the chicken broth, add the shredded chicken, and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to start mingling.

1. Incorporate Cream Cheese:

• Reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and blends smoothly into the broth. This will give the soup its rich, creamy base.

1. Add Seasonings and Cheese:

• Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has melted and is fully incorporated into the soup. This will add a cheesy richness that makes the soup extra comforting.

1. Cook Noodles:

• Stir in the egg noodles (or any noodles of your choice) and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the delicious flavors of the broth.

1. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. This soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread for dipping!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s the estimated nutrition breakdown for each serving, assuming the recipe makes 4 servings:

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (1/4 of the recipe)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

These values are based on the ingredients listed. If you adjust the types of broth or use lighter cream cheese, the calorie count may be slightly different.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This soup is incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in just under 40 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner after a long day or a hearty weekend lunch.

How to Serve

This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the creamy broth perfectly.
• With a Side Salad: A light, fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of the soup.
• As a Main Dish: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a main dish for dinner. It’s filling and satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side.
• For Meal Prep: Store the soup in individual containers for easy meal prep. It’s great to grab for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Additional Tips

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a great flavor to the soup.
2. Adjust Noodles: If you prefer gluten-free noodles, use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles as a substitute.
3. Make it Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy cream cheese and dairy-free cheese to make the soup dairy-free, or substitute with coconut cream for a different flavor.
4. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas or corn for a more colorful and nutrient-packed soup.
5. Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for extra heat.
• Crack Chicken with Spinach: Add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for added color and nutrition.
• Crack Chicken with Bacon: Fry up some bacon and crumble it into the soup for a smoky flavor boost.
• Low-Carb Crack Chicken Soup: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of egg noodles to make this soup lower in carbs.
• Crack Chicken with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes for an even heartier soup that’s perfect for colder days.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Simple Salad: A light side salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the soup.
• As Part of a Bigger Meal: Serve with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables for a complete dinner.
• For Special Occasions: This soup makes a great starter for a holiday meal or a family gathering. Its rich, creamy texture is sure to impress your guests.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. You may need to add a little extra broth or cream to return the soup to its original texture.
• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to adjust the consistency.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
   Yes, you can use frozen carrots and celery. Just be sure to thaw them first to ensure even cooking.
3. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
   If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use a block of soft cream cheese or even Greek yogurt as a substitute.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a different flavor.
5. Is this soup gluten-free?
   The soup itself is gluten-free if you use gluten-free noodles. Be sure to check the label on the cream cheese or broth if you’re concerned about hidden gluten.
6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just shred them after cooking for the same texture.
7. Can I make this soup spicy?
   Yes, add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
8. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, half-and-half is a great substitute if you want a slightly lighter version of the soup.
9. **Can I make this soup vegetarian?**
   Yes, you can use vegetable broth and swap out the chicken for beans, tofu, or extra vegetables.
10. Can I freeze this soup?
    Yes, this soup freezes very well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavors that make it impossible to resist. With the combination of creamy cheese, savory chicken, and tender noodles, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or for a special gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy this hearty soup with a side of bread and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a complete, satisfying meal!

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