This cozy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is loaded with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and delicious spices. It’s perfect for a chilly day or when you need a warm hug in a bowl!
Plus, it’s super easy to make! I love how it comes together quickly, so I can enjoy a big bowl while binge-watching my favorite shows. What could be better than that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: A key base for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, low-sodium options are great. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you prefer a lighter option, try using plain Greek yogurt instead, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can swap them for whole wheat noodles, gluten-free pasta, or even spiralized veggies for a lower-carb option!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience. No leftover chicken? You can quickly poach some or use canned chicken for a fast shortcut!
How Do I Make My Soup Creamy Without Curdling the Cream Cheese?
To keep your soup smooth and creamy, it’s important to incorporate the cream cheese properly. Here’s how:
- After cooking the noodles, reduce the heat to low to prevent boiling.
- Cube the softened cream cheese and add it gradually. Stir gently until fully melted into the soup.
- Adding the heavy cream afterward helps create a silky texture. Always use low heat to avoid curdling.
These steps will help you achieve a rich and creamy soup that’s simply irresistible!
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles or other favorite noodle
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crack Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend about 35 minutes to cook this warm, comforting dish perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add in the diced onion, carrot slices, and celery. Cook these for about 5-6 minutes until they become tender. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrant aroma.
2. Add the Broth and Chicken:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then add the shredded cooked chicken. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to your liking, giving it a good stir.
3. Cook the Noodles:
Now, it’s time to add the egg noodles into the simmering soup. Cook them according to the package instructions, which usually takes around 7-8 minutes, until they’re nice and tender.
4. Make It Creamy:
Once the noodles are ready, reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the cream cheese cubes followed by the heavy cream. Keep stirring until the cream cheese fully melts into the soup, creating that delicious creamy texture.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even some extra herbs to bring out the flavors.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully ladle the hot soup into bowls and top it off with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra touch.
7. Enjoy!
Now serve the soup hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful of this creamy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup! Perfect for cozy evenings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it properly before shredding. You can thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can cook chicken directly from frozen in the soup, just allow a little extra cooking time.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some white beans for protein, and tofu can be an excellent substitute for chicken!
What Should I Do with Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, reheat it on the stove before serving. Alternatively, you can freeze it in portions, but avoid adding the noodles until you’re ready to reheat for the best texture.
