Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm, creamy soup that tastes so good you’ll want to eat it again and again! It’s called “crack” because it’s super addictive, not because it has anything bad in it. This dish is perfect for cold days, family dinners, or anytime you want something really yummy.
What is Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a special version of chicken noodle soup. It has creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tasty seasonings like ranch flavor. It’s a mix of your favorite comfort foods in one bowl.
People love it because it’s richer and more exciting than regular chicken noodle soup. Over the years, it has become a favorite for families and anyone who loves cozy meals.
What Goes in Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
This soup is made with simple ingredients that work together to make it delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Soft and juicy pieces of chicken.
- Noodles: These soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Cream Cheese: This makes the soup super creamy.
- Bacon: Crispy bits that add a smoky, salty crunch.
- Seasonings: Ranch seasoning and other spices make it extra tasty.
Why is Crack Chicken Noodle Soup So Special?
- It’s Healthy: The chicken gives you protein, and the noodles give you energy.
- Great for Cold Days: The warm soup feels cozy, like a blanket in a bowl.
- Everyone Loves It: Kids, grown-ups, and even picky eaters will enjoy it.
What’s the Difference Between This Soup and Regular Chicken Noodle Soup?
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is creamier and more flavorful than regular chicken noodle soup.
- Regular Chicken Noodle Soup: Light and simple, with clear broth.
- Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: Creamy, rich, and packed with flavors like bacon and ranch seasoning.
What is “12 Tomatoes”?
12 Tomatoes is a website that shares easy, comforting recipes. Their version of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is super popular because:
- They make recipes that are easy for everyone to follow.
- Their soups and meals are perfect for family dinners.
- They always add little tricks to make dishes extra tasty.
Check out more yummy ideas at 12 Tomatoes.
What You Need to Make This Soup
Before you start cooking, make sure you have:
- A Big Pot: To hold all the soup.
- A Cutting Board and Knife: For cutting chicken and bacon.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To make sure you add the right amounts.
Picking the Right Noodles
The noodles in your soup are important!
- Best Choice: Egg noodles are chewy and taste great with creamy soups.
- Gluten-Free Option: If someone can’t eat regular noodles, you can use rice noodles or other gluten-free ones.
The Best Bacon for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Bacon adds a lot of flavor to this soup.
- Thick-Cut Bacon: This is the best because it stays crispy and adds extra taste.
- Cooked or Fresh Bacon: Fresh bacon gives the best flavor, but pre-cooked bacon works if you’re in a hurry.
How to Pick Your Chicken
Chicken is the main ingredient in this soup, so pick the best one:
- Bone-In or Boneless?: Bone-in chicken has more flavor, but boneless is easier to prepare.
- Rotisserie Chicken: You can also buy a ready-made chicken at the store to save time.
What Mistakes to Avoid
To make the soup just right, here are some things to watch out for:
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If you cook them too long, they’ll turn mushy.
- Use Good Cream Cheese: Cheap cream cheese won’t make the soup as creamy and smooth.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup 12 Tomatoes: How to Make It Step by Step
Now that you know all about Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, it’s time to make your own! Don’t worry—this is a super simple recipe that anyone can follow, and it will make your kitchen smell amazing.
What You Need to Make the Soup
Here are the ingredients to get started:
- Shredded chicken (about 2 cups). You can cook it at home or use store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Six pieces of bacon, cooked and broken into small crumbles.
- Cream cheese (8 oz) for the creamy texture.
- A packet of ranch seasoning mix for flavor.
- Chicken broth (8 cups) as the soup base.
- Two cups of egg noodles for the perfect chew.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) to make it cheesy and delicious.
- Optional herbs like garlic, parsley, or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
How to Make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Follow these steps to make your soup perfect:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cook your chicken if needed by baking or boiling it until tender. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully too. Shred the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the Bacon Crispy
Heat the bacon in a skillet until it’s golden and crispy. After cooking, let it rest on a paper towel to remove excess grease. Break it into crumbles once cooled.
Step 3: Create the Soup Base
In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and heat it over medium. Add the cream cheese and stir gently until it melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy liquid. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and mix everything together.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Noodles
Stir the shredded chicken into the soup, letting it soak in the flavors. Toss in the egg noodles and cook them for about 8–10 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Finish with Bacon and Cheese
Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese is fully melted. These ingredients add so much flavor and richness to the soup.
Step 6: Taste and Perfect the Flavor
Take a small taste of the soup to check the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or even fresh parsley if needed to make it just right.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Cook the noodles until just tender. Adding them near the end helps prevent overcooking.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth, creamy soup base.
- Add extra herbs like garlic, thyme, or parsley if you want to make the flavors pop.
Fun Ways to Change the Recipe
You can tweak this soup to fit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations:
- Low-Carb or Keto Option: Swap the noodles for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace cream cheese with coconut milk and skip the cheddar cheese.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a kick.
Keep It Simple with One Pot
Cooking everything in one pot makes cleanup a breeze. Start by frying the bacon in the same pot you’ll use for the soup, then remove the bacon and use the remaining grease to begin the soup. This trick saves time and adds flavor.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to save and enjoy the soup later:
- Fridge Storage: Once the soup cools, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze the soup in a sturdy, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat with Care: Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
- If the soup turns out too thick, simply add a little extra chicken broth or water to fix it.
- For bland soup, adjust the seasonings by adding more ranch mix, herbs, or even a touch of garlic powder.
- Overcooked noodles can be avoided by cooking them separately and adding them just before serving.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup 12 Tomatoes: Serving and Side Dishes
Now that you know how to make Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it and what to eat with it. You’ll also learn how to make it look fancy and enjoy it on special occasions.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is best served warm, straight from the pot. Here are a few tips to make it even better:
- Use Big Bowls: This soup is hearty, so use deep bowls to hold all the goodness.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle some fresh parsley, crumbled bacon, or shredded cheese on top to make it look colorful and tasty.
- Serve Hot: It tastes best when it’s warm, so serve it as soon as it’s ready.
What to Eat with Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
This soup is amazing on its own, but it’s even better with the right side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm bread or a dinner roll is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Simple Salad: A fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light dressing goes well with the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or zucchini make a great side dish.
- Cheese Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits add a yummy twist.
Drinks That Go Well with Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Pair your soup with a comforting drink for a complete meal. Here are some ideas:
- Hot Tea: A cup of herbal tea is cozy and light.
- Hot Chocolate: If you want something sweeter, hot cocoa is a fun choice.
- Juice or Lemonade: For kids, a glass of juice or lemonade is refreshing.
- Wine or Beer: For adults, white wine or a light beer complements the soup’s creamy flavor.
How to Make It a Family Meal
This soup is a great choice for families because it’s easy to make and everyone loves it. Here’s how to make it even better for your family:
- Kid-Friendly Tips: Use small pasta shapes if your kids don’t like egg noodles. You can also skip the bacon if they’re picky eaters.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a big family, make extra soup so there’s enough for seconds.
- Fun Toppings: Let your kids add their own toppings, like cheese or crackers.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup for Meal Prep
This soup is perfect for planning meals ahead. Here’s how to use it for meal prep:
- Portion It Out: Divide the soup into small containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Use Freezer Bags: Pour the soup into freezer bags and lay them flat in the freezer to save space.
- Reheat Gently: Warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. Add a little broth if it gets too thick.
Making It Look Fancy
If you’re serving Crack Chicken Noodle Soup for a special occasion, here’s how to make it look extra nice:
- Use Pretty Bowls: Serve it in colorful or patterned bowls for a fancy touch.
- Add Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh herbs, crumbled bacon, or a swirl of cream on top.
- Serve with a Side Plate: Add a slice of bread or a mini salad on a side plate to make it look like a restaurant dish.
When to Serve Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
This soup is perfect for so many occasions! Here are some ideas:
- Holidays: Serve it as a starter for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other holiday meals.
- Cold Days: It’s great on chilly evenings when you need something warm.
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with a rich and flavorful soup that’s easy to make.
What People Say About Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Fans of this soup from 12 Tomatoes love it because it’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor. Many say it’s their favorite meal on cold days, and some even call it the best soup they’ve ever had!
FAQ About Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Here are answers to common questions about this soup:
- Can I Use Egg Noodles in Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes! Egg noodles are a fantastic choice for this dish, adding a hearty texture. For a detailed recipe, check out Crack Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles to learn how to incorporate them perfectly. - What can I use instead of egg noodles?
Try macaroni, penne, or gluten-free noodles. - Can I skip the bacon?
Sure! The soup will still taste great without it. - How do I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. - What if my soup is too thick?
Add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out. - Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken will taste better. - What’s the best way to reheat it?
Heat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often. - Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, and spinach work well. - How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container. - What makes this soup so special?
The creamy base, crispy bacon, and tasty seasonings make it irresistible!
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect dish for anyone who loves warm, comforting, and super tasty meals. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and works for all kinds of occasions—whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special celebration. With its creamy base, crispy bacon, and hearty noodles, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!