Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy broth, tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a savory hint of turkey bacon. It’s rich, cheesy, and filling, making it the perfect choice for a cozy dinner on chilly nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Creamy and Cheesy: Melted cream cheese and cheddar make this soup incredibly creamy.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit your taste, from noodles to bacon.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, this soup is ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth (or low-sodium broth)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or any noodle of choice)
• 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, and sauté for an additional 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken.
5. Stir everything to combine and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cream Cheese

6. Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese.
7. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and blends smoothly into the broth, creating a creamy base.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cheese

8. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
9. Stir until the cheese is melted and well incorporated into the soup.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

10. Add the egg noodles and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Add Turkey Bacon

11. Stir in the crumbled turkey bacon and allow it to warm through.

Step 7: Serve

12. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for cooking the soup
• Cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables
• Ladle for serving

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and crusty bread for dipping.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.

Variations

• Noodle Options: Substitute egg noodles with other pasta types like rotini, macaroni, or bow ties.
• Regular Bacon: For a richer flavor, substitute regular bacon instead of turkey bacon.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and omit the cheddar for a lighter soup.

Helpful Tips

• Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure the cream cheese is softened and cubed for easier melting.
• Preventing Mushy Noodles: If you expect leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl, as noodles can become overly soft when stored in soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving, especially if using low-sodium broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor to the soup.

2. Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing isn’t recommended due to the cream cheese and noodles, which may change texture when thawed. For a freezer-friendly version, add cream cheese and noodles when reheating.

3. How can I make this soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, stir in an extra 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar or let it simmer longer with the cream cheese until the broth reduces.

4. Can I use another cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes! Gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack would also add a nice creaminess and flavor.

5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese, tender chicken, and savory bacon. It’s rich, flavorful, and a sure crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any cozy meal!

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