Crack Chicken Soup is a creamy, hearty, and irresistibly delicious dish packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a savory broth. This easy, one-pot soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or family dinners. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a household favorite!
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For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 package (8 oz / 225 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup (10 g) chopped green onions or fresh parsley
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side).
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese, whisking until the cream cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cheese
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Notes
- Keto-friendly: This soup is naturally low-carb, making it a great option for those on a keto diet.
- Vegetable additions: Add chopped spinach, kale, or broccoli for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing soup for a gathering, this recipe has you covered. Try it today and experience the creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Crack Chicken Soup ahead of time, and if so, how should I store it?
Yes, you can absolutely make this soup ahead of time! Prepare the soup completely, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of extra chicken broth during reheating if the soup has thickened too much. Assemble the toppings just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What substitutions can I make if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand, like the heavy cream or cream cheese?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with an equal amount of half-and-half, but the soup may be slightly thinner. For the cream cheese, you can use a similar amount of sour cream or even Greek yogurt, although this will alter the tanginess slightly. If you’re out of cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack or a similar melting cheese works well. Adjust the seasoning to taste as needed to compensate for any flavor changes.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked perfectly and when the soup is ready to serve?
The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Look for chicken that is no longer pink inside and shreds easily with two forks. The soup is ready to serve when the cheese is fully melted and the flavors have had a chance to meld, typically after simmering for 10-15 minutes. The soup should be creamy and smooth, with a rich aroma from the spices and cheese.
Can I double or triple this recipe to feed a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe! When doubling, use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, especially during the simmering stage, to ensure all the flavors meld properly. If tripling, consider using two pots to manage the volume and ensure even cooking. Be sure to adjust the ingredient amounts proportionally.
What are the nutritional benefits of Crack Chicken Soup?
This Crack Chicken Soup offers several nutritional benefits. Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair. The cheddar cheese contributes calcium and protein. The broth offers hydration and can provide electrolytes. This soup can also be adapted to include vegetables like spinach or kale, adding vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
CRACK CHICKEN SOUP
This Crack Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting soup loaded with chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add chicken breasts and cook until cooked through, about 20 minutes.
- Remove chicken from pot, shred it using two forks, and set aside.
- Add cream cheese to the broth and stir until melted and combined. Add ranch seasoning and mix well.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the pot and add cheddar cheese, bacon, celery, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes and serve hot.
Notes
For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
