Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a cozy bowl filled with tender chicken, creamy goodness, and hearty noodles. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting meal!
What makes this soup so special? That creamy taste will have you thinking you’re in heaven! I love to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping—just the best combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too! You can also skip it for a vegetarian version and add extra veggies for flavor.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds great taste. Should you need a substitute, cooked turkey or canned chicken can be handy!
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to swap them out for whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a non-dairy cream cheese could work as an alternative, keeping the creaminess without the heaviness.
How Do I Cook the Bacon Perfectly?
Cooking bacon can be simple, but to get that perfect crisp, follow these steps:
- Start with a cold pan. Place bacon in and then turn the heat to medium.
- Let the bacon cook slowly; this helps render the fat and creates crispiness.
- Cook until golden brown and crispy, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
This method helps keep the bacon crispy while also providing a delicious base flavor for your soup!
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 ½ cups egg noodles
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet cozy enough for a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, carefully remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a paper towel. Leave the bacon fat in the pot to add flavor to the soup!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook this mixture until the vegetables are softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the shredded chicken, dried parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
4. Cook the Noodles:
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions until they’re tender, which typically takes 5-7 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on them!
5. Make It Creamy:
Turn the heat to low and add the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until both cheeses are completely melted and the soup is nice and creamy.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the soup from heat and stir in the sour cream and sliced green onions. This adds a lovely extra flavor!
7. Serve It Up:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and more green onions if you like. Enjoy every delicious spoonful of your rich and creamy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup!
This soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days or for bringing comfort during those cozy nights at home.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it first. The best way to thaw chicken is in the fridge overnight or using the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Make sure it’s cooked through before shredding!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess if needed.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance. Just make sure to add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and sour cream right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Noodles?
If you’d like to replace egg noodles, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You could also substitute it with rice or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly based on what you choose!