This creamy crack chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food for any season, combining savory chicken, crunchy bacon, and rich cheese all in a silky-smooth broth. The ranch seasoning adds a subtle tang, while the melted cheddar cheese creates a luscious, velvety texture.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this soup is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal. The combination of flavors makes it a standout choice for any occasion, and you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the broth is smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken, bacon bits, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot and garnish with extra bacon bits and shredded cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Chicken Breasts (cooked and shredded):
For this recipe, cooked chicken breasts are shredded to create the base for the soup. You can either cook the chicken yourself by boiling or pan-searing, or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience. Shredded chicken gives the soup texture and ensures the chicken soaks up all the creamy goodness of the soup base. - Cream Cheese (8 oz):
Cream cheese is the star ingredient that makes this soup irresistibly creamy and velvety. It adds a smooth texture and helps bind all the ingredients together. When combined with the chicken broth, the cream cheese melts into a luxurious base for the soup. Make sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand to ensure it blends smoothly into the soup. - Ranch Seasoning Mix:
This packet of ranch seasoning is what gives the soup its signature flavor. It adds a tangy, herby kick that complements the richness of the cream cheese and chicken. If you’re looking to control the level of seasoning, feel free to use a homemade ranch seasoning mix or adjust the packet amount to your taste. - Bacon Bits:
Bacon bits bring a smoky, savory flavor to this creamy soup, providing a nice contrast to the creaminess and adding a bit of crunch. You can either use store-bought bacon bits or crisp up your own bacon and chop it into small pieces. If you prefer a lower-fat option, turkey bacon can be substituted. - Chicken Broth:
Chicken broth serves as the liquid foundation for the soup, providing a deep, savory taste that complements the chicken and cream cheese. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish, or use homemade broth for an even richer flavor. - Shredded Cheddar Cheese:
The addition of shredded cheddar cheese adds another layer of flavor and creaminess to the soup. It also thickens the soup and gives it a delicious cheesy taste. If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend. - Garlic Powder and Onion Powder:
These pantry staples add a subtle depth of flavor to the soup, enhancing the savory elements without overpowering the dish. Garlic powder provides warmth and richness, while onion powder adds a hint of sweetness.
Why This Soup is So Special:
This Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is a decadent twist on classic chicken soup, perfect for anyone craving comfort food with a rich and savory taste. The cream cheese and cheddar create a silky, velvety broth that pairs wonderfully with the shredded chicken and smoky bacon bits. Ranch seasoning brings an unexpected burst of flavor, making each bite irresistibly satisfying.
This soup is not only quick and easy to make but is also customizable. If you’re looking to make it spicier, you can add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes. For a lighter version, you can swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt or use reduced-fat cream cheese.
How to Serve:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad. It can also be served as a comforting appetizer or as the main dish for lunch or dinner. The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings with friends.
Feel free to adjust the amount of ingredients to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy this comforting, creamy bowl of goodness that will surely become a family favorite!
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best things about this Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is that it stores beautifully. It’s an excellent option for meal prep because it can be made in advance and reheated throughout the week. The flavors even improve after a day or two in the fridge, making it a great dish to prepare ahead of time for busy weeks. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for later! Portion the soup into individual servings, let it cool completely, and store in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Customizing Your Soup
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are a few customization options you might want to try:
- Add Vegetables: You can easily make this soup even heartier by adding vegetables like spinach, kale, or cauliflower. Adding a handful of spinach at the end of cooking will give it an extra burst of nutrients while still keeping the soup creamy and delicious.
- Spicy Version: If you love a little heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup an extra kick. The creaminess will balance out the spice perfectly.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a non-dairy cheese such as vegan cheddar. You can also use coconut milk or almond milk as a base instead of chicken broth for a lighter alternative.
- Low-Carb/ Keto Friendly: This soup is already keto-friendly as it’s naturally low in carbs. To make it even more keto, you can add cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles for extra texture and volume without the carbs.
Serving Ideas
This soup is rich and filling on its own, but if you want to add some extra sides to complete the meal, here are some delicious ideas:
- Garlic Bread: A slice of crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion to this creamy soup. The crunchiness of the bread adds a nice contrast to the smooth soup, and dipping it into the broth is heavenly.
- Side Salad: A fresh, light salad with greens like arugula or spinach can balance the richness of the soup. Add a simple vinaigrette or lemon dressing for an extra refreshing touch.
- Cheese Topping: For the ultimate indulgence, top your creamy crack chicken soup with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, extra bacon bits, and a handful of chopped green onions or chives. This adds flavor and color while making the soup even more decadent.
Why It’s Loved by So Many
This soup is loved for its incredible combination of flavors and textures. The rich, creamy broth pairs perfectly with the tender shredded chicken and crispy bacon. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience – a comforting, flavorful dish that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Plus, it’s quick to make, which makes it a go-to dish when you need something satisfying in a hurry. Whether you’re feeding your family, preparing for a gathering, or simply craving a creamy, comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to deliver.
Serving Suggestions for Special Occasions
Looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or holiday gathering? This creamy crack chicken soup is perfect for serving to a crowd. To make it a special occasion meal, you can serve it in bread bowls or top it with freshly chopped herbs for a touch of elegance. Pair it with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a balanced and delicious dining experience.
Dietary Considerations
- Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
- Low-Carb/Keto: As mentioned, this soup is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- Nut-Free: This recipe doesn’t contain any nuts, making it a safe choice for those with nut allergies.
Conclusion
This Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, flavorful, and satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its creamy base, savory chicken, crispy bacon, and bold ranch seasoning, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner, a meal prep option, or something to share at a family gathering, this soup checks all the boxes.
With its versatility and the ability to customize to your taste or dietary needs, it’s the perfect recipe to keep on hand for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy a delicious, hearty bowl of soup in no time. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly see why it’s called “Crack” chicken—it’s that addictive! Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your loved ones, and savor every spoonful of this comforting bowl of heaven.