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When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals that bring warmth and comfort to the table, few dishes compare to Crack Chicken Noodle Soup. This rich and creamy soup combines tender chicken, savory bacon, melted cheese, and hearty egg noodles into a bowl of pure comfort. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet familiar, making it perfect for family dinners, cold weather meals, or anytime you crave something filling and flavorful.
Unlike traditional chicken noodle soup, this version elevates the classic with creamy cheeses and smoky bacon, transforming it into a restaurant-quality comfort food that’s easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced home chefs.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich texture with perfectly balanced flavors
- High-protein comfort food that keeps you full and satisfied
- One-pot meal for easy cleanup
- Family-friendly recipe that appeals to all ages
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
This recipe is especially popular because it combines the comforting qualities of chicken noodle soup with the bold, crave-worthy flavors of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and bacon.
Ingredients Breakdown
• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the vegetables, adding flavor and creating the base of the soup.
• Onion & Garlic – Build savory depth and form the foundation of the soup’s flavor.
• Carrots & Celery – Classic soup vegetables that add color, texture, and gentle sweetness.
• Chicken Breasts – Lean and protein-rich; they become tender as they simmer and shred easily.
• Chicken Broth – The backbone of the soup, providing savory richness and depth.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy texture that sets this soup apart.
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds sharp, bold flavor and melts smoothly into the broth.
• Cream Cheese – Brings mild tang and extra creaminess to balance the cheddar.
• Herbs & Seasonings – Parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper enhance and round out the flavors.
• Egg Noodles – Hearty noodles that soak up the creamy broth while staying tender.
• Bacon – Adds smoky crunch and bold flavor that makes the soup irresistible.
• Green Onions or Chives – Used as garnish for freshness and visual appeal.
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Tips and Tricks
- Shred chicken while warm for easier handling
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
- Simmer gently after adding dairy to prevent curdling
- Add noodles last to avoid overcooking
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
For an even richer flavor, reserve a small amount of bacon grease and sauté vegetables in it instead of olive oil.
Variations and Customizations
- Low-Carb Crack Chicken Soup
Skip the noodles and add cauliflower florets or zucchini instead. - Spicy Version
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat. - Extra Cheesy Soup
Increase cheddar cheese or add Monterey Jack for a smoother finish. - Vegetable-Packed Option
Add spinach, kale, or peas for extra nutrients. - Slow Cooker Method
Prepare the soup base in a slow cooker for hands-off cooking.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls
- Pair with a fresh green salad for balance
- Enjoy alongside buttermilk biscuits
- Complement with steamed vegetables for a complete meal
This soup also works well as a starter or main course for casual gatherings.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze without noodles for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding broth if needed
Because noodles absorb liquid over time, you may need to add extra broth when reheating.
Popular Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken can be added during the final step to save time.
Will this soup thicken as it sits?
Yes, the noodles and cheese will thicken the soup over time. Add broth to adjust consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles or omit them entirely for a gluten-free version.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add chicken breasts and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and set aside.
- Stir heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese into the pot. Cook over low heat until melted and smooth.
- Add egg noodles, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir in crumbled bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with green onions or chives. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese
- To prevent overcooked noodles, cook them separately and add before serving
- This soup thickens as it cools; add broth when reheating
- Ideal for meal prep and batch cooking
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