Enter “Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup,” a flavor-packed twist on traditional chicken noodle soup that has earned its place as a beloved family favorite. Brace yourselves, because once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll be hooked on its irresistible combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch flavors.
In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming satisfaction of a steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup. But what if we told you that we’re about to take this classic to a whole new level of deliciousness?
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone who’s just starting to explore the joys of cooking, this recipe is accessible, easy to follow, and guaranteed to leave you with a sense of culinary achievement.
Easy Weeknight Family Meal
Just taking the classic ingredients of chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning mixed with a creamy broth takes this from good to amazing.
Plus, it’s the perfect choice for those chilly evenings when all you want is a bowl of something warm and comforting. Join us on this culinary journey as we walk you through the steps to create “Crack Chicken Noodle Soup,” a meal that’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This hearty chicken bacon ranch soup
You’re going to absolutely love this Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup recipe for several reasons. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Unparalleled Flavor: The combination of tender, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and the rich, creamy goodness of ranch dressing creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. It’s a harmonious blend of savory, smoky, and creamy notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Comfort Food Reimagined: This great recipe takes classic comfort food, chicken noodle soup, and elevates it to new heights. The addition of ranch dressing and bacon adds a unique twist, making it even more satisfying and comforting.
Ease of Preparation: No need to be a gourmet chef to create this dish. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s accessible to all levels of cooks. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you can master this recipe with ease.
Versatility: The flexibility of this recipe allows for customization. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, making it an ideal choice for those who like to put their own twist on traditional recipes.
Family Favorite:
“Crack Chicken Noodle Soup” is a family-friendly meal that will have everyone gathering around the table. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch. You can even make a big batch to enjoy as leftovers throughout the week.
Instant Comfort: On a cold, rainy day or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is like a warm hug from the inside. It’s the perfect remedy for any day when you need a little extra comfort.
Quick and Convenient: This soup comes together in a relatively short amount of time. It’s a fantastic option when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked, hearty meal.
With these fantastic qualities, this is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that will leave you craving it over and over again.
You’ll want to use your large soup pot for this recipe. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will have you and your loved ones savoring every spoonful.
This recipe is about to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it’s earned the nickname “Crack Chicken Noodle Soup.”
Make enough because everyone will want another bowl. The best thing is that it tastes even better the next day.
What is Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
It has a playful name, yet it is a delicious and flavorful variation of the classic chicken noodle soup. It gets its name from the addictive and irresistible combination of ingredients, which include shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and the creamy, savory flavors of ranch dressing.
Here’s a basic overview of the key components of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup:
Chicken:
This recipe typically uses shredded or diced chicken. You can use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, or cook chicken breasts or thighs specifically for the soup. The chicken adds heartiness and protein to the dish.
Bacon:
Crispy bacon is a star ingredient in this soup. Cooked bacon provides a smoky, savory flavor and adds a delightful crunch to each spoonful.
Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix:
Just one packet of this mix adds amazing flavor. Another option is to use ranch salad dressing is the secret ingredient that gives the soup its unique and delicious flavor. It’s creamy, herby, and tangy, enhancing the overall taste of the soup. One of our favorite things is our homemade ranch salad dressing. We use it for so many things.
Noodles:
Like traditional chicken noodle soup, this version includes noodles. You can use your favorite type, such as egg noodles, fettuccine, or even rice noodles. Today, I used Simply Asia Chinese Style Lo Mein Noodles.
Broth:
Chicken broth serves as the base of the soup, providing a savory and comforting liquid for all the ingredients to simmer in. If you are using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, then you have a few options for your broth. I made my own chicken stock and often have some on hand frozen at the ready.
Another quick and flavorful option is to use a soup base like Better Than Bouillon dissolved in water.
Vegetables:
You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to the soup for added flavor and nutrition. I love using the frozen mixed vegetables of all kinds, from the California Blend to the Asian Stir Fry Blend like I did today. Another option is to add fresh spinach or kale to this for a well-rounded nutritious dish.
Seasonings:
Various seasonings and herbs can be used to enhance the flavor. Popular choices include garlic, parsley, thyme, and black pepper.
The beauty of this soup lies in its balance of rich, creamy, and smoky flavors, making it a comforting and irresistible dish that’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. The name “Crack” suggests its addictive nature; once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s so loved by those who try it. It’s a comforting twist on a classic that’s sure to become a family favorite.
How to make chicken soup without drying out the chicken?
To make chicken soup without drying out the chicken, you need to follow a few key cooking techniques and tips that will help you maintain the chicken’s tenderness and juiciness.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your chicken remains succulent in your soup:
Instructions
You can cook the chicken right in the same kettle you plan to make your soup in. This is a great way to make your own chicken broth.
Choose the Right Cut of Chicken.
Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks will help maintain moisture. These cuts tend to be more forgiving and less likely to dry out during cooking. You can also use a whole chicken.
Sear the Chicken (Optional).
If you have the time and want to add extra flavor, sear the chicken in a hot skillet or pot with a little oil until it’s browned on all sides. This step is optional but can enhance the depth of flavor in the soup.
Use Low and Slow Cooking.
To prevent the chicken from drying out, cook it over low to medium heat for a longer period. Simmer the chicken in the broth or water rather than boiling it vigorously.
Maintain a Gentle Simmer.
Keep the soup at a gentle simmer, just below the boiling point, to ensure the chicken cooks slowly and evenly.
Cover the Pot Partially.
While simmering, partially cover the pot with a lid or leave it slightly ajar to let some of the steam escape. This helps to control the temperature and prevents the chicken from overcooking.
Remove the Chicken at the Right Time.
Cooking times can vary depending on the type of chicken used. If using bone-in pieces, simmer for about 30-45 minutes, and for a whole chicken, it may take 1-2 hours. Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the soup as soon as it’s fully cooked to prevent overcooking, which can lead to dryness.
Let the Chicken Rest.
After removing the chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before shredding or cutting it into bite-sized pieces. This helps to retain the juices and maintain tenderness.
Then Finish the Soup
Add Vegetables and Noodles or Rice. After removing the chicken, add your choice of vegetables and noodles or rice to the soup. Cook these components according to their recommended times.
Return the Chicken. Once the soup is ready and the vegetables and noodles/rice are cooked, return the chicken to the pot. Allow it to heat through before serving. Pro Tip. If using rotisserie chicken, just remove it from the bone and dice it. Add it to your soup broth at this point and skip all the steps above.
Season to Taste. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or seasonings according to your preferences.
By following these steps, you can make a delicious chicken soup without drying out the chicken. The low and slow cooking process, along with careful timing, will result in moist and tender chicken in your soup.
What are the Storage Options for this Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup?
To store Creamy Soup or any soup properly, follow these storage options and guidelines to maintain its flavor and quality:
Refrigeration
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature.
Transfer the soup to an airtight container or a covered pot.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Freezing
If you have more soup than you can consume within a few days, consider freezing it.
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature.
Portion the soup into airtight, freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Frozen soup can be stored for 2-3 months.
To use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Reheating
When reheating from the refrigerator, gently warm the soup over low to medium heat to avoid scorching the cream or cheese.
If reheating from the freezer, thaw it in the refrigerator first, then reheat as above.
Avoid Repeated Freezing and Thawing
Try to avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the soup, as it can affect the texture and quality.
Note About Pasta and Noodles
If your soup includes pasta or noodles, they may become softer and absorb more liquid after freezing. You can add fresh, cooked pasta when reheating the soup to maintain a better texture.
Customize for Individual Servings
To avoid reheating the entire batch, portion the soup into single-serving containers before freezing. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need.
Use Freezer Bags
You can also use freezer bags instead of containers for space-saving storage. Squeeze out excess air and lay them flat for easier storage and quicker thawing.
Proper storage and reheating can help maintain the quality of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup so that it tastes as delicious as the day you made it.
This variation of Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup with cream cheese offers an extra level of richness and creaminess that’s sure to be a hit. Our whole family loves this hearty soup. Enjoy!
Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker
Make this in a slow cooker for a convenient and hands-off cooking experience. Using a slow cooker simplifies the process, and you’ll come home to a delicious, hot meal.
Here’s how to adapt the Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup Recipe for a slow cooker.
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside to drain on a paper towel.
In the same skillet, add the diced raw chicken breast. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove the chicken and set it aside. If using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, skip this step.
In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and any other vegetables.
Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the vegetables are tender.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth.
Stir the cream cheese and ranch mixture into the slow cooker. Mix well until the soup is creamy and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese and continue to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the soup is creamy and flavorful.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serve the Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup hot, garnished with fresh chives or green onions if desired.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup Recipe: Crack Chicken Noodle
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 8 Slices Bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 Pounds Chicken cooked and diced, rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe
- 1 Medium Onion chopped
- 2 Cloves Garlic minced
- 2 Stalks Celery diced
- 8 Ounces Vegetables optional can be any kind, even frozen
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 6 Ounces Noodles optional
- 8 Ounces Cream Cheese 1 cup softened
- 1 Packet Dry Ranch Seasoning 3 ounces, or ¼ Cup Ranch Salad Dressing
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream or Whole Milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.8 Slices Bacon
- Add the diced chicken to the kettle with the bacon drippings. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Skip this step if you are using rotisserie chicken.2 Pounds Chicken
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add any other vegetables at this time, if desired. Return the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the pot.1 Medium Onion, 2 Cloves Garlic, 2 Stalks Celery, 8 Ounces Vegetables
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.6 cups chicken broth
- Add the noodles and let cook while you prepare the cream cheese. Cut the cream cheese into large chunks and let it soften. Add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mixture to the soup, stirring until it’s fully incorporated, and the soup becomes creamy.6 Ounces Noodles, 8 Ounces Cream Cheese, 1 Packet Dry Ranch Seasoning
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and make the soup even creamier.1 Cup Cheddar Cheese
- Turn off the heat and add the heavy cream.1 Cup Heavy Cream
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preference.Salt and pepper to taste
- Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon crumbles and, if desired, fresh chives or green onions on top of the soup.Fresh chives or green onions for garnish
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker
Make this in a slow cooker for a convenient and hands-off cooking experience. Using a slow cooker simplifies the process, and you’ll come home to a delicious, hot meal. Here’s how to adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside to drain on a paper towel. In the same skillet, add the diced raw chicken breast. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove the chicken and set it aside. If using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, skip this step. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and any other vegetables. Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the vegetables are tender. In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and dry ranch seasoning mix until smooth. Stir the cream cheese and ranch mixture into the slow cooker. Mix well until the soup is creamy and the ingredients are fully incorporated. Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese and continue to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the soup is creamy and flavorful.Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serve the Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup hot, garnished with fresh chives or green onions if desired.
