Crack chicken noodle soup served with crusty bread on the side for a comforting meal

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Are you looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that will warm you from the inside out? Look no further than crack chicken noodle soup! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a creamy broth that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the best crack chicken noodle soup, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and more!

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients

To make a delicious pot of crack chicken noodle soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Fresh ingredients for crack chicken noodle soup, including chicken breasts, carrots, celery, and egg noodles.

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 cups (2 liters) chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 cups (300g) egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
  • 1 cup (150g) carrots, diced
  • 1 cup (150g) celery, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1 cup (100g) cream cheese, softened

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a large pot, add the chicken breasts and cover them with chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. While the chicken is cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil.
  2. Sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

  1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

  1. Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot along with the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil and add the egg noodles. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

  1. Once the noodles are cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese until fully incorporated and creamy.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Heavy cream and cream cheese being stirred into crack chicken noodle soup for a creamy texture

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: Cooking Tips

  • Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just shred it and add it to the soup after sautéing the vegetables.
  • Noodle Choices: Feel free to substitute egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
  • Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Advice

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover crack chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: Variations

  • Vegetable Additions: Add your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Spicy Version: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup FAQ

Can I make crack chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply add all the ingredients (except the cream and noodles) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the noodles and cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

Conclusion

Crack chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a dish to soothe your soul, this recipe is sure to deliver. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family!

Have you tried making crack chicken noodle soup? Share your experience in the comments below, and let us know your favorite variations!

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