There’s just something so comforting about a creamy soup, right? It wraps you up like a warm blanket on a chilly day. My crack chicken noodle soup has become a family favorite because it’s not just delicious, but it’s packed with flavor and super easy to whip up! The creamy richness combined with tender chicken and hearty noodles makes every spoonful feel like a hug. I remember the first time I made it for my kids; they couldn’t get enough! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll find a special place in your heart—and your kitchen!

Ingredients for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

To make my crack chicken noodle soup, you’ll need some key ingredients that come together to create a creamy and comforting bowl of goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but feel free to use any leftover chicken you have on hand. Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces!
1 cup egg noodles: These little noodles soak up all the flavor and add that perfect texture. Cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente.
4 cups chicken broth: This is the base of your soup, so go for a good-quality broth. It really makes a difference in flavor!
1 cup cream cheese: This is where the magic happens! The cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess that ties everything together.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because who doesn’t love extra cheese? It melts beautifully into the soup and adds a nice sharp flavor.
1 cup sliced carrots: Fresh carrots add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Slice them thin for quicker cooking.
1 cup diced celery: The celery adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor. Chop it finely to blend well with the other ingredients.
1/2 cup diced onion: Onions are essential for that savory base. Use yellow or white onions for the best flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This gives the soup a lovely garlic aroma without the fuss of fresh garlic. If you prefer fresh garlic, about 2 cloves minced will work too!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust seasoning to your personal preference. A little seasoning goes a long way!

Optional Ingredients

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the flavor and add a burst of freshness.
Peas: Toss in a handful of frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. They cook quickly and add a nice texture!
Hot sauce: If you like a kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up beautifully.

How to Prepare Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this delicious crack chicken noodle soup to life! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a warm and creamy bowl of goodness in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by grabbing a large pot and pouring in your 4 cups of chicken broth. Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, and diced onion. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. This will take about 5–7 minutes, and the aroma is just heavenly!
Once it’s boiling, toss in your 1 cup of egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they’re tender, usually around 5–6 minutes. Give them a stir occasionally to keep them from sticking together.
Next, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the soup gets its creamy texture! Mix everything together until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated, which should take about 3–5 minutes.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to make sure all the flavors blend nicely. If you want to adjust the seasoning, now’s the time!
Let the soup simmer on low for an additional 5–10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

And there you have it! Your crack chicken noodle soup is ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a no-fuss meal.
Comforting and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug, perfect for chilly days.
Family-Friendly: With its rich flavor and tender chicken, this soup is a hit with both kids and adults alike. You’ll find everyone coming back for seconds!
Versatile: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite veggies or spices, tailoring it to your taste preferences.
Leftover Friendly: It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
Healthier Comfort Food: Packed with protein and vegetables, this soup is a satisfying yet healthier choice compared to traditional creamy soups.

Tips for Success

Making the perfect crack chicken noodle soup is all about little details! Here are some expert tips to ensure yours turns out creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying:

Use quality chicken broth: The broth you choose sets the foundation for your soup. A homemade broth or a good-quality store-bought option will elevate the flavor significantly.
Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on your egg noodles! They should be cooked al dente, as they’ll continue to soften when you add the cream cheese and simmer the soup. No one likes mushy noodles!
Adjust the creaminess: If you want an extra creamy soup, feel free to add more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream. Just be sure to mix it well until everything is smooth!
Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Always taste your soup before serving, and adjust the salt, pepper, or even garlic powder to suit your preferences. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take it away!
Let it rest: If you can, let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better!
Store properly: If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors will deepen as it sits!

With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create a delicious crack chicken noodle soup that’ll impress everyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a comforting bowl of crack chicken noodle soup, it’s nice to know what you’re nourishing your body with! Here are the estimated nutritional values for a serving size of 1 cup:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, enjoy your soup guilt-free, knowing it’s not only delicious but also packed with satisfying nutrients!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my crack chicken noodle soup? No worries! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you make the most delicious bowl.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh chicken, just add it to the broth at the beginning and let it cook through before shredding. It’ll take a bit longer, but the flavor will be fantastic!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream cheese. Just remember that this might slightly change the flavor and texture, but it’ll still be creamy!

Can I make this soup in advance?
Definitely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, just swap out the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta or some rice. It will still be delicious and satisfying!

Can I freeze crack chicken noodle soup?
Yes! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your crack chicken noodle soup properly will ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for your next meal! Here’s how to do it:

Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting watery. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months!
Reheating: When you’re ready to dig in again, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Just heat until it’s warmed through, and you’re good to go!
Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Pour your desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your crack chicken noodle soup will remain just as comforting and creamy as the day you made it.

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: 5 Reasons to Love This Comfort Food

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and flavorful crack chicken noodle soup that is easy to make and satisfying.

Instructions

In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion. Bring to a boil.
Add egg noodles and cook until tender.
Stir in shredded chicken, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: crack chicken noodle soup, chicken soup, creamy soup, easy soup

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