This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, noodles, and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy texture? I love adding some herbs for a fresh touch. You’ll want to keep a pot of this on hand—it’s a cozy classic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or leftover cooked chicken. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked shredded chicken works perfectly!
Pasta: Rotini is great for this soup, but farfalles or penne can be used as well. If you’re gluten-free, swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta for the same satisfying texture.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness, but Neufchâtel cheese or even sour cream can be a lighter alternative if you’re looking to cut calories a bit.
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for its flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try smoked paprika or chipotle powder to bring that smoky flavor without the meat.
How Do You Make the Soup Creamy and Delicious?
The secret to making this soup creamy lies in the right techniques. Start by sautéing the vegetables first to bring out their flavors. When you add the cream cheese, stir vigorously until melted. This will help incorporate it into the broth smoothly.
- Use low heat when adding the cream cheese to ensure it doesn’t curdle.
- Taking time to let the cheese melt helps create that desired creamy texture.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any spiral pasta)
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creaminess:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare yourself for about 10 minutes to chop your veggies and gather ingredients. Cooking will take about 20-25 minutes, so you can have a warm, creamy, and delicious soup on the table in roughly 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these veggies until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step deepens their flavor.
2. Adding Garlic:
Now, go ahead and stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This will make your whole kitchen smell amazing!
3. Bringing in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and water to the pot. Add the dried thyme, parsley, and season with black pepper and salt. Bring everything to a boil to combine all those yummy flavors.
4. Cooking the Pasta:
Once boiling, toss in your rotini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente (just firm enough to bite).
5. Making It Creamy:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the softened cream cheese. Keep stirring until it’s melted and mixed thoroughly into the broth, creating a creamy base.
6. Combining the Goodness:
Add in the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon pieces. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is thick and creamy. Feel free to let it simmer for a few more minutes if needed.
7. Adjusting the Flavor:
Now it’s time to taste your soup. If you think it needs more flavor, add a little more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
8. Serving Up the Soup:
Serve your cozy soup hot! Garnish each bowl with extra crumbled bacon and chopped chives or green onions for that perfect finishing touch. If you like a little kick, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes!
Enjoy your creamy and comforting Crack Chicken Noodle Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before using it. You can safely thaw it in the fridge overnight or use a quick method by submerging the sealed chicken in cold water.
How Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep the cheese and pasta separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent them from getting mushy. Reheat gently on the stove.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Sure! Simply replace the chicken with cooked beans or tofu for protein, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the bacon. You’ll still have a creamy and delicious soup!