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Creamy Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

A comforting bowl of creamy crack chicken noodle soup with crunchy bacon, tender chicken, and a rich, flavorful broth.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 10 ounces egg noodles
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions (optional garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6 to 7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
  3. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, then add the chicken, ranch seasoning, black pepper, and dried parsley. Stir, bringing everything to a boil.
  2. Once boiling, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-22 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it back to the pot, mixing it into the broth.
  4. Stir in the cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar until both cheeses are fully melted and incorporated.
  5. Add the egg noodles and let them simmer for 7-9 minutes until tender.
  6. If desired, stir in baby spinach until just wilted, followed by the lemon juice.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of parsley or green onions.

Notes

For a healthier version, add black beans or chickpeas, or swap egg noodles for whole wheat noodles. This dish freezes well if noodles are excluded prior to freezing.