Crack chicken soup is a rich, creamy, and incredibly flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and other mouthwatering ingredients to create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Crack chicken soup is an irresistible dish that takes the beloved crack chicken to a whole new level. This dish is known for its creamy, cheesy, and savory profile, making it a favorite among comfort food lovers. The base of this soup is made with chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon, which all combine to create a hearty and satisfying soup that’s perfect for cold nights or cozy family dinners.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also versatile, as you can make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, crack chicken soup will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection. This dish is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about crack chicken soup, including the ingredients, detailed step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and much more. Let’s dive into the world of this delicious, creamy soup.
What is Crack Chicken Soup?
Crack chicken soup is a creamy, comforting dish that takes inspiration from the famous “crack chicken” recipe. Traditionally, crack chicken is made by cooking chicken with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and bacon, but in soup form, it is elevated to a whole new level of indulgence. The result is a thick, velvety soup that’s loaded with flavor.
The key to its irresistible taste is the perfect balance of creaminess, saltiness, and smokiness. With tender chicken, melted cream cheese, and flavorful seasonings, every spoonful of crack chicken soup is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
For more savory comfort recipes like this, check out this slow cooker chicken noodle soup, which is another great option for cozy nights.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Soup
To make this flavorful crack chicken soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken works best for this recipe, as it shreds easily and adds tenderness to the soup.
- Cream cheese: This adds creaminess and richness, making the soup luxurious and velvety.
- Ranch seasoning mix: The ranch seasoning mix gives the soup a tangy, zesty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty cheese texture that enhances the soup’s creamy consistency.
- Bacon: Optional but highly recommended for extra flavor. Bacon adds a smoky, crispy bite that contrasts well with the creamy soup base.
- Chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing the liquid to combine all the ingredients.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice depth of flavor and an aromatic touch.
- Onion: A mild sweetness from the onion helps balance the richness of the cream cheese.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning and ensuring the soup is perfectly flavorful.
How to Make Crack Chicken Soup
Now, let’s dive into the detailed steps for making crack chicken soup. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, the process is fairly simple.
Stovetop Method:
- Cook the Chicken: Begin by cooking the chicken breast or thighs in a large pot over medium heat. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you prefer. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot, and shred it with two forks.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and softened.
- Add the Cream Cheese and Broth: Add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Incorporate the Shredded Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, followed by the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Bacon: If using bacon, crumble it into the soup just before serving for added texture and flavor.
Slow Cooker Method:
- Combine the Ingredients: Place the chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic, and chicken broth in the slow cooker.
- Cook on Low: Cook the mixture on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, shred it with two forks.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the cheddar cheese and allow it to melt into the soup. Add cooked bacon at the end if desired.
Instant Pot Method:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode, and cook the onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Pressure Cook: Add the chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and chicken broth to the pot. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the pressure is released, shred the chicken and stir in the cheddar cheese.
- Finish: If using bacon, crumble it into the soup before serving.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
- Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on the method used)
- Total Time: 30-45 minutes
- Servings: This recipe serves about 6-8 people.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Soup
Crack chicken soup is one of those comforting dishes that everyone will love. Here are five reasons why this soup will quickly become a favorite:
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The cream cheese and cheddar cheese create a velvety texture that makes every spoonful irresistible.
- Packed with Flavor: Ranch seasoning, garlic, and bacon add layers of flavor to this soup, making it a savory delight.
- Easy to Make: Whether you’re using the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, this soup is simple to prepare and requires minimal effort.
- Perfect for Any Season: Enjoy it on a cold winter’s day for warmth or as a hearty dish for dinner.
- Versatile: This recipe can easily be adjusted based on your dietary preferences or what ingredients you have on hand.
Storage Options
Crack chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup becomes too thick after storing, just add a little bit of chicken broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.
Variations and Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and cheddar cheese with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese.
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables such as carrots, celery, and potatoes to make a hearty vegetable-based soup.
- Spicy: Add some jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Pairings and Accompaniments
Pair crack chicken soup with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or some crispy tortilla chips for a complete meal. A refreshing cucumber salad or coleslaw would also complement the rich flavors of the soup.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
Crack chicken soup has a creamy texture similar to other cheesy chicken soups but stands out due to its ranch flavor and bacon. While chicken noodle soup is light and broth-based, crack chicken soup is thick, creamy, and rich, making it a heartier choice for a meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is cracked chicken called cracked chicken?
Cracked chicken gets its name from its irresistible flavor that’s so delicious, it’s considered “addictive,” much like “crack.”
What is special about chicken soup?
Chicken soup is known for its comforting qualities, often associated with healing properties. The combination of tender chicken, broth, and various seasonings makes it a nourishing and soothing dish.
How long does crack chicken last in the fridge?
Crack chicken can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
What is crack chicken soup?
Crack chicken soup is a creamy, flavorful soup made with chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and other tasty ingredients, often including bacon for added flavor.
Best Time to Enjoy Crack Chicken Soup
This dish is ideal for a cozy dinner during cooler months, though it can be enjoyed year-round. It’s perfect for family gatherings or whenever you’re in need of a hearty, comforting meal.
Presentation Tips
Serve crack chicken soup in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra shredded cheese on top. A side of warm, crusty bread makes it even more appealing!
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