why make this recipe

Craveable Crack Chicken Soup is the perfect dish for anyone who loves comfort food. This creamy and cheesy soup is not only delicious but also easy to make. Packed with flavor from ranch seasoning, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or to satisfy those cravings for something rich and filling.

how to make Craveable Crack Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and shredded)
8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
1 oz ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
4 oz beef bacon (cooked and crumbled)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 finely diced yellow onion
3 cloves minced garlic
Optional: frozen corn or diced potato (for added texture)

Directions:

Start by dicing your beef bacon into small pieces. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef bacon over medium heat until it’s beautifully crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon bits to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot.
Add the finely diced onion to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and turned translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
Once the broth is simmering, whisk in the entire packet of ranch seasoning mix until it’s fully dissolved. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the pot, whisking continuously until it has completely melted and the soup base is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the pot and stir gently to combine. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly until they are fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy crumbled beef bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions.

how to serve Craveable Crack Chicken Soup

Serve this soup hot in bowls, and for a special touch, top it with the crispy bacon and some fresh chopped green onions. It’s great to enjoy with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

how to store Craveable Crack Chicken Soup

To store leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

tips to make Craveable Crack Chicken Soup

If you like extra texture, add frozen corn or diced potatoes when you add the broth.
Adjust the creaminess by using less cream cheese for a lighter soup.
Experiment with different cheese combinations for varied flavors.

variation

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. You can also swap the beef bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner option.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just add all ingredients except cheese and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add cheese just before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix. Always check labels if you have dietary restrictions.