Rich & Comforting Creamy Crack Chicken Soup Recipe

Whipping up a delectable crack chicken soup brings comfort right to your kitchen table.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly in this crowd-pleasing culinary creation.

Creamy textures mingle with savory chicken, creating an irresistible meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Rich flavors burst through each spoonful, promising a delightful dining experience.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.

Smooth and indulgent, the soup delivers warmth and nourishment in every bite.

You’ll want to savor each moment of preparation and enjoyment.

Dive into this soul-warming recipe that guarantees smiles around the dinner table.

Instructions for Rich, Flavorful Crack Chicken Soup

Step 1: Crisp Up Bacon

Sizzle chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until golden and crunchy. Scoop out bacon pieces with a slotted spoon, leaving behind a thin layer of bacon drippings.

Step 2: Awaken Aromatics

Drizzle olive oil into the pot with bacon fat. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, dancing them around the pot until they become soft and release their delightful fragrance.

Step 3: Build the Base

Drop chicken pieces into the pot with savory chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then dial down the heat. Cover and let the chicken simmer gently until it’s perfectly cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Star

Pull out the chicken and transform it into delicate strands using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to its bubbly bath.

Step 5: Create Creamy Magic

• Cream cheese
• Heavy cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ranch seasoning
• Smoked paprika
• Spinach or kale (optional)

Whisk and stir until everything melts into a smooth, dreamy concoction.

Step 6: Final Flourish

Taste and sprinkle salt and pepper as needed. Let the soup simmer briefly to marry all the flavors.

• Crispy bacon bits
• Fresh parsley
• Extra cheddar cheese

Tips for a Soup That’s Thick,, and Loaded

• Maximize Bacon Flavor: Save the crispy bacon fat for an extra layer of smoky richness in your soup base, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• Chicken Texture Trick: Poach chicken breasts or thighs whole to keep the meat tender and moist, then shred for a perfect, juicy consistency.
• Creamy Consistency Hack: Soften cream cheese at room temperature before adding to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety texture throughout the soup.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace traditional ranch seasoning with homemade low-carb seasoning blend and swap heavy cream for coconut cream to make this keto-friendly.
• Green Boost Option: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the last minute to preserve nutrients and add a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the soup.

Creamy Crack Chicken Soup That’s Seriously Addictive

• Minimal prep and cooking time make this soup a lifesaver for busy families needing a delicious meal fast.
• Easily swap ingredients like chicken type, greens, or cheese to match your taste preferences and pantry availability.
• Loaded with chicken and bacon, this soup delivers substantial nutrition and satisfying flavor in every creamy spoonful.
• Its rich, comforting taste appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients That Make Crack Chicken Soup Special

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Tender meat that forms the hearty core of the soup, opt for boneless cuts for easier shredding.
• Bacon: Crispy, smoky flavor enhancer that adds depth and crunch, choose thick-cut for better texture.

• Cream Cheese: Rich and smooth ingredient that creates a luxurious base, room temperature works best for easier melting.
• Heavy Cream: Adds silky richness and helps create a velvety soup texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese that provides additional flavor and creaminess, shredded works perfectly.

• Chicken Broth: Liquid base that provides depth and helps cook the chicken, low-sodium recommended for better control of saltiness.
• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic foundation that builds essential flavor profile, fresh ingredients preferred.
• Ranch Seasoning: Zesty blend that adds complex herb and spice notes.
• Spinach or Kale: Optional green vegetable for nutrition and color, fresh or frozen both work well.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds subtle smoky undertone and warmth.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Used for sautéing aromatics, provides initial flavor base.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for final flavor adjustment.
• Parsley: Optional fresh garnish for brightness and color.

How to Reheat Crack Chicken Soup and Keep It Dreamy

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed soup stays fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore creamy consistency if needed.
• Heat in microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to prevent hot spots. Check temperature before serving to ensure even heating.

Sides That Pair Like a Charm with This Soup

• Select a light, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the soup's rich, creamy texture and complement its bold flavors.
• Choose a rustic sourdough or herbed focaccia to soak up the creamy broth, adding delightful texture and enhancing the soup's hearty profile.
• Prepare a tangy green salad with mixed leafy greens, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the soup's heaviness and provide a fresh counterpoint.
• Select a smooth amber ale or blonde lager that matches the soup's richness while offering a subtle hoppy brightness that refreshes the palate.

Add-Ins That Elevate Crack Chicken Soup

Veggie Lovers’ Version: Replace chicken with cauliflower or tofu, using vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based alternative that keeps the creamy texture and rich flavor profile.

Keto-Friendly Swap: Substitute cream cheese with full-fat cream cheese, use heavy cream, and replace ranch seasoning with homemade low-carb seasoning mix to maintain ketogenic requirements.

Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, swap dairy cheeses with nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a smooth, allergen-friendly version that maintains the soup’s comforting essence.

Low-Sodium Option: Eliminate added salt, use reduced-sodium chicken broth, select low-sodium bacon, and control seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a healthier adaptation.

Crack Chicken Soup FAQs

• How do I choose the right chicken for this soup?

Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts are leaner, while thighs offer more flavor and tenderness. Fresh chicken works best for maximum taste and texture.

• Can I make this soup less spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce or omit the ranch seasoning and smoked paprika. You can also use mild versions of these seasonings to control the heat level according to your preference.

• Is this soup protein-packed?

Yes! The combination of chicken and bacon provides a significant protein boost. Each serving contains approximately 20-25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk. For a lighter version, use milk and add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the soup. Greek yogurt can also work as a cream alternative.

Creamy Crack Chicken Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Crack chicken soup delivers comfort with its rich, cheesy blend of tender meat and savory broth. Hearty ingredients meld together, promising a satisfying meal that will warm souls and delight taste buds, leaving you craving another spoonful.

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Ingredients

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Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 4 slices bacon, chopped

Dairy and Cream Components:

• 1 (8 ounces/225g) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup (120 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Base and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup baby spinach or kale (optional, for extra greens)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Render crispy, golden bacon in a spacious pot, transferring the pieces to a side plate while preserving approximately one tablespoon of rendered fat.
2. Introduce olive oil or butter to the residual bacon drippings, then gently sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and aromatic.
3. Pour chicken broth into the pot and submerge whole chicken pieces, allowing the liquid to reach a vigorous boil before reducing heat and covering for gentle poaching until protein is completely cooked.
4. Extract chicken from the broth and meticulously shred using two forks, then return the tender meat to the simmering liquid.
5. Incorporate cream cheese, whisking thoroughly to create a silky base, then introduce heavy cream, creating a luxurious texture.
6. Blend in shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, and leafy greens, stirring until the cheese melts and vegetables soften.
7. Calibrate seasoning with salt and pepper, allowing the soup to simmer briefly for flavor integration.
8. Ladle the creamy concoction into serving vessels, crown with crispy bacon fragments, fresh parsley, and additional cheese before presenting piping hot.

Notes

• Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness, ensuring it renders plenty of delicious fat for sautéing.
• Keep chicken breasts or thighs at room temperature before cooking to guarantee even cooking and tender meat texture.
• Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt as healthier alternatives to traditional heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup.
• For gluten-free adaptation, replace ranch seasoning with homemade blend using dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Swap chicken with rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken to reduce overall cooking time and add extra depth of flavor.
• Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for those wanting a spicy kick without compromising the creamy base.
• Opt for baby spinach instead of kale for quicker wilting and a milder green vegetable component.
• Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3-4 days, reheating gently to prevent cream from separating.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 525
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg