This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is the perfect comforting dish combining classic chicken noodle soup flavors with a creamy, cheesy twist. With hearty ingredients like shredded chicken, savory turkey bacon, and soft egg noodles, this soup is ideal for warming up on chilly days or when you crave a nourishing meal.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe blends the rich flavors of chicken and vegetables with the creamy texture of cheddar cheese and cream cheese, offering a unique spin on traditional chicken noodle soup. A sprinkle of dried dill and parsley enhances the soup’s depth, while a topping of fresh parsley adds a burst of color. The soup’s texture and mild flavors make it family-friendly, easy to prepare, and delicious for all ages.
History and Origin
Chicken noodle soup has a long history across many cultures, with versions found in numerous cuisines worldwide. Often known as a go-to for comfort and nourishment, chicken noodle soup became a pantry staple due to its simple yet wholesome ingredients. This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup variation introduces an American twist with added cheeses and turkey bacon for a richer, creamier version inspired by “crack chicken” recipes. These recipes are known for their addictive combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and seasonings.
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 for reduced sodium)
- 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
1. Sauté Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add minced garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for an additional 3 minutes. The vegetables should be fragrant and slightly softened at this stage.
2. Add Broth and Chicken
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- Add the shredded chicken, stirring gently to distribute it throughout the soup.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Incorporate Cream Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and creamy base.
4. Add Seasonings and Cheese
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into the soup.
- Add the dried dill, parsley, salt, and pepper, adjusting seasonings to taste.
- Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted and blended into the broth.
5. Cook Noodles
- Stir in the egg noodles and cook for 7-10 minutes or until they are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Turkey Bacon
- Stir in the crumbled turkey bacon, allowing it to warm through in the soup.
7. Serve
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time
- Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a simple side salad for added texture and flavor balance. If you prefer a heartier meal, serve it alongside a baked potato or garlic toast. For beverages, consider pairing it with a light tea or sparkling water with a twist of lemon to balance the richness of the soup.
Variations of the Recipe
- Low-Carb Option: Replace egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free noodles, like rice noodles or chickpea pasta.
- Extra Veggies: Add chopped mushrooms, baby spinach, or corn for added texture and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Health Benefits Notes
This soup offers a nutritious balance of protein from the chicken and turkey bacon, along with fiber from the vegetables. Using low-sodium chicken broth makes it a heart-healthy option, while cream cheese and cheddar add calcium. Incorporating a variety of vegetables boosts vitamins A, C, and K. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cheeses.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
A: Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup, bring it to a boil, and add freshly cooked noodles.
Q: Can I use a rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: You can substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives. Coconut cream can also be used for creaminess, though it will alter the flavor.
Q: How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it should last 3-4 days in the fridge.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is an indulgent twist on a beloved classic. Its creamy, cheesy broth combined with tender chicken, savory turkey bacon, and soft egg noodles make it a perfect choice for cozy meals. Versatile and customizable, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit dietary needs or taste preferences. Whether for family dinners or a warming lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the comforting warmth in every spoonful!
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Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup combines classic chicken soup ingredients with creamy cheese, shredded chicken, and turkey bacon, creating a rich, comforting meal perfect for any season. Its simple preparation and cozy flavors make it ideal for family dinners or chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium optional)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried dill
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or preferred noodles)
- 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 3 more minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and add shredded chicken. Stir to combine, and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese: Lower the heat, add cubed cream cheese, and stir until it melts smoothly into the broth.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Stir in cheddar cheese, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese melts and blends in.
- Cook Noodles: Add egg noodles and cook for 7-10 minutes until tender.
- Add Turkey Bacon: Stir in crumbled turkey bacon, allowing it to heat through.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheese.
- Freeze before adding noodles for better texture upon reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~380
- Sodium: ~600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g