There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy, and flavorful bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day. This delicious dish combines the comfort of classic chicken noodle soup with the indulgent flavors of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and crispy turkey bacon. Its rich, velvety texture and savory taste make it an instant favorite for family dinners or cozy nights in.

What makes this dish so addictive? The combination of tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a cheesy, creamy broth creates a meal that is both filling and satisfying. Inspired by the viral crack chicken recipe, this soup takes those flavors to the next level with the addition of comforting broth and perfectly cooked noodles.

Unlike traditional chicken soup, which relies on simple broth and vegetables, this version is enhanced with cream cheese and heavy cream for extra depth and richness. Plus, the addition of turkey bacon adds a smoky crunch that balances the creamy texture perfectly.

For those who love experimenting with comfort food, this dish is an excellent base for countless variations. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative or a spicier twist, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your preference. You can also check out the history and benefits of chicken soup to understand why this dish has been a staple in kitchens for centuries.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to make the perfect Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, from selecting the best ingredients to cooking tips that ensure a delicious outcome. Get ready to experience your new favorite soup recipe!

The Ingredients Breakdown

To make the ultimate Crack Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need a mix of classic soup ingredients and rich, indulgent add-ins. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, savoriness, and texture.

Base Ingredients

These ingredients form the foundation of the soup:

Butter (1 tbsp): Enhances the richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant, savory kick that pairs well with the creamy broth.
Chicken broth (6 cups): The liquid base that brings all the flavors together. Using a high-quality broth is key for the best taste. Learn more about chicken broth and its nutritional benefits.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the soup its signature creamy texture.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The secret ingredient for a rich, velvety consistency. Choose full-fat cream cheese for the best results. More on cream cheese and its culinary uses.

Protein & Noodles

Shredded chicken (3 cups): This soup is perfect for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quick meal.
Egg noodles (2 cups): These classic noodles absorb the flavors beautifully while maintaining a satisfying bite. Learn more about egg noodles and their versatility.

Seasonings & Herbs

Dried parsley (1 tsp): Adds a mild herbal freshness.
Dried dill (½ tsp): Complements the creaminess with a subtle tang.
Salt (½ tsp) & Black pepper (¼ tsp): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

Extra Flavor Additions

Turkey bacon (6 slices, cooked & crumbled): Adds a smoky, crispy element to contrast the creamy broth. For those who prefer regular bacon, it works just as well! Discover more about different types of bacon.
Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into the soup, providing extra depth and a slightly sharp flavor. Learn more about cheddar cheese varieties.
Green onions (½ cup, chopped): A fresh and slightly spicy garnish that ties everything together.

Each of these ingredients contributes to the richness, texture, and overall addictiveness of this soup. Up next, we’ll discuss how to select the best ingredients to elevate your dish even further!

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The key to making the best Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is selecting high-quality ingredients that enhance flavor and texture. Below, we’ll dive into how to choose the best options for chicken, noodles, cheese, and bacon to ensure a perfect bowl every time.

Best Chicken Options

Choosing the right type of chicken can make a big difference in the final dish. Here are the best options:

Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and easy option with built-in seasoning. Just shred and add to the soup.
Leftover Chicken: If you have roasted or grilled chicken from another meal, this is a great way to use it.
Freshly Cooked Chicken: Cooking and shredding boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ensures the freshest taste. Poaching the chicken in chicken broth adds even more flavor.

For a low-carb option, swap chicken with shredded turkey for a different yet equally delicious variation.

Types of Noodles: Egg Noodles vs. Alternatives

Noodles add heartiness to the soup, but not all noodles are created equal. Here’s what works best:

Egg Noodles: The classic choice for chicken noodle soup because they absorb flavors beautifully while maintaining a soft, chewy texture. Learn more about egg noodles and their versatility.
Gluten-Free Alternatives: If you need a gluten-free version, swap out egg noodles for rice noodles, chickpea pasta, or spiralized zucchini (zoodles).
Low-Carb Options: Instead of pasta, try shredded cabbage or cauliflower rice to reduce carbs while keeping the soup hearty.

Cheese Choices: Why Cheddar is Best & Alternatives

Cheddar cheese is ideal for Crack Chicken Noodle Soup because it melts well and adds a slight sharpness that balances the creamy broth. However, if you want to experiment, consider these options:

Sharp Cheddar: For a bolder taste.
Mild Cheddar: For a creamier, subtler flavor.
Mozzarella: A good alternative if you prefer a more mild, stretchy cheese.
Pepper Jack: Adds a spicy kick for those who like heat.

Bacon Options: Turkey Bacon vs. Regular Bacon

The crispy, smoky flavor of bacon adds depth and texture to this soup. Here’s how different options compare:

Turkey Bacon: A leaner choice that still delivers crunch and smokiness.
Regular Bacon: Adds extra richness and a stronger smoky flavor. Frying it until crispy before adding it to the soup enhances the texture.
Bacon Bits: A convenient option if you’re short on time, though fresh bacon provides the best taste.

By choosing the best ingredients, you can customize this soup to match your flavor preferences while ensuring the perfect balance of creaminess, savoriness, and comfort. Up next, we’ll walk through the step-by-step cooking process to bring all these elements together into one delicious dish!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have the perfect ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together. Follow these simple steps to make a rich, creamy, and irresistible bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup.

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted:

Add 1 small diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft and translucent.
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

At this stage, the kitchen should already smell amazing! Onions and garlic provide the savory base that enhances the soup’s overall depth of flavor.

2. Build the Soup Base

Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This liquid gold is what makes the soup comforting and full of flavor. For the best results, use homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought version to control the saltiness. You can read more about the benefits of chicken soup and its history.

Once the broth is simmering, add:

3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Stir well and let the soup simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Melt the Cream Cheese for Creaminess

Reducing the heat to low is essential before adding dairy-based ingredients. Otherwise, they might curdle!

Add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese in small chunks.
Stir continuously until it is fully melted and incorporated into the broth.

A common issue is the cream cheese forming lumps instead of blending smoothly. To avoid this, let the cream cheese reach room temperature before adding it, or whisk it with a small amount of warm broth before stirring it into the pot. You can also learn about cream cheese’s uses in cooking.

4. Cook the Noodles

Now it’s time for the noodles to soak up all that flavor!

Stir in 2 cups of egg noodles and let them cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
Keep the heat on a gentle simmer—boiling the soup too aggressively can cause the dairy to separate.

If you prefer a gluten-free or low-carb version, swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or gluten-free pasta. You can check out alternative egg noodle varieties here.

5. Add the Final Touches

Once the noodles are tender, stir in:

6 slices of cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Stir gently until the cheese melts into the soup, creating an extra creamy, cheesy consistency. If you want an extra cheesy kick, use sharp cheddar or Pepper Jack cheese for added depth. Discover more about cheddar cheese varieties.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove the soup from the heat and top it with ½ cup of chopped green onions. The mild, slightly spicy bite of green onions brightens up the rich, creamy broth.

For serving suggestions, pair this soup with:

Crusty bread for dipping
A fresh green salad to balance the richness
Roasted vegetables for an extra nutrient boost

And that’s it! You’ve just made an incredibly flavorful, creamy, and satisfying bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup that will have everyone coming back for more. Up next, we’ll explore some pro tips to make sure your soup turns out perfect every time!

Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Making the perfect Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is all about balancing creaminess, texture, and flavor. Follow these expert tips to ensure your soup turns out deliciously smooth and packed with flavor every time.

1. How to Make It Extra Creamy

The secret to an ultra-creamy soup lies in how you handle the dairy ingredients:

Use full-fat dairy – Low-fat cream cheese or heavy cream won’t give you the same rich texture.
Whisk the cream cheese before adding – This prevents lumps from forming. Softening it at room temperature also helps.
Add heavy cream last – Stirring it in at the very end preserves its silky texture.

For a deeper dive into the science of cream cheese and its uses in creamy soups, check out this Wikipedia page.

2. Preventing Curdled Dairy

Curdling happens when dairy is exposed to high heat too quickly. Here’s how to avoid it:

Use low heat when adding cream cheese and heavy cream. Avoid boiling the soup after adding them.
Temper the dairy. Mix a small amount of hot broth with the cream cheese before adding it to the pot.
Stir constantly. This ensures the cheese and cream melt smoothly into the soup.

3. How to Thicken the Soup If Needed

Want a thicker soup? Try these simple methods:

Simmer longer. Letting the soup cook uncovered for a few extra minutes helps it naturally thicken.
Add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the soup.
Use more cheese. Extra shredded cheddar will thicken the broth while adding more depth of flavor.

For more ideas on thick, hearty soups, check out Pinterest’s collection of creamy soup recipes for inspiration!

4. Adjusting Seasoning for Different Flavor Preferences

This soup is already flavor-packed, but you can tweak it to match your taste:

Want more heat? Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
Prefer a tangy kick? A splash of lemon juice or a dash of Dijon mustard enhances the depth of flavor.
Looking for more umami? A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce adds richness.

By following these tips, you’ll create the perfect bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup every single time. Up next, we’ll explore fun variations and customizations to make this dish your own!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is how versatile it is. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, need a dairy-free option, or want to spice things up, there’s a variation for everyone. Below are some easy ways to customize this soup while keeping its deliciously creamy and savory essence.

1. Low-Carb/Keto Version

For those on a low-carb or keto diet, swapping out the egg noodles is a great way to reduce carbs while still keeping the soup hearty. Try these alternatives:

Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): These add a slight crunch and hold up well in broth.
Cauliflower Rice: A great way to mimic the texture of noodles while keeping it low-carb.
Shirataki Noodles: These zero-carb noodles work well for keto diets.

If you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, you might also enjoy checking out more Keto Chicken Soup recipes on Pinterest.

2. Dairy-Free Version

If you’re lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, try these substitutions:

Coconut Milk: A great alternative to heavy cream that still adds a creamy texture.
Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: Available in most stores, these plant-based options blend well into the soup.
Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor without using actual cheese.

3. Spicy Variation

Want to add some heat to your soup? Try these simple modifications:

Add Diced Jalapeños – A few chopped jalapeños bring a spicy kick.
Use Pepper Jack Cheese – Swapping out cheddar for spicy Pepper Jack adds an extra layer of heat.
Stir in Hot Sauce – A dash of Sriracha or Frank’s Red Hot Sauce boosts the spice level.

4. Vegetarian Version

Although this soup is packed with chicken, you can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with plant-based alternatives:

Use Vegetable Broth – Swap chicken broth for a rich, flavorful veggie-based broth.
Replace Chicken with Mushrooms or Chickpeas – These add heartiness without the meat.
Omit the Bacon or Use Vegan Bacon Bits – You can still get that smoky flavor without using real bacon.

For more vegetarian comfort food ideas, check out these Pinterest comfort food recipes.

By making a few simple swaps, you can customize Crack Chicken Noodle Soup to fit your dietary preferences while keeping it flavorful and satisfying. Next, we’ll explore the best side dishes and pairings to serve alongside this comforting soup!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

A bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is already a hearty, comforting meal, but the right sides and pairings can take it to the next level. Whether you’re looking for crunchy textures, fresh contrasts, or complementary flavors, these serving suggestions will complete your meal.

1. Best Side Dishes

Pairing the right side dish with your soup adds variety and balance to the meal. Here are some great options:

Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth. Try a warm baguette, sourdough, or even cheesy garlic bread.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic comfort food combo that adds an extra cheesy indulgence.
Roasted Vegetables – Roasting carrots, brussels sprouts, or bell peppers adds a slightly caramelized, savory contrast to the creamy soup.
Side Salad – A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup. A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens works beautifully.

For more cozy meal ideas, check out these Pinterest comfort food recipes.

2. Ideal Drink Pairings

Pairing your soup with the right drink can enhance the overall dining experience. Consider these options:

White Wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) – The acidity in these wines balances the soup’s richness.
Iced Tea with Lemon – A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate.
Hot Herbal Tea (Chamomile or Peppermint) – A cozy drink to complement the warm, comforting flavors of the soup.
Sparkling Water with Citrus – Adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.

3. Toppings for Extra Flavor

Elevate your soup with these delicious garnishes and mix-ins:

Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!
Crumbled Bacon – Adds crunch and smoky depth.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, or Chives) – Enhances the soup’s freshness.
Crushed Crackers or Croutons – For a satisfying crunch.
A Dollop of Sour Cream – If you love an even creamier texture.

The right sides, drinks, and toppings can turn your soup into a complete meal that’s both satisfying and well-balanced. Up next, we’ll go over how to store leftovers and the best ways to reheat this soup while keeping it just as creamy and delicious!

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—Crack Chicken Noodle Soup stores and reheats beautifully! Follow these simple storage and reheating tips to keep the flavors fresh and the texture perfect.

1. How to Store Leftovers Properly

To maintain the best quality and freshness, follow these steps when storing your soup:

Refrigerate in an Airtight Container – Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed container. This prevents excess condensation, which can make the soup watery.
Store in the Fridge for Up to 3 Days – For best taste and texture, consume within this timeframe.
Separate Noodles for Longer Storage – If you plan to store the soup for more than a day, consider storing the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming too soft or mushy.

2. Can You Freeze Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes! However, because this soup contains dairy and noodles, freezing requires a few extra steps to preserve its creamy texture:

Freeze Without the Noodles – Cook the soup without the noodles and freeze the broth separately. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
Use Heavy Cream Instead of Milk – Milk-based soups can separate when frozen, while heavy cream holds up better.
Store in Freezer-Safe Containers – Use freezer bags or airtight containers, leaving an inch of space for expansion.

3. Best Way to Reheat Without Losing Texture

Reheating Crack Chicken Noodle Soup the right way ensures it stays creamy and flavorful:

Stovetop (Best Method) – Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or heavy cream to bring back its original consistency.
Microwave (Quickest Option) – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
Avoid High Heat – Boiling can cause the dairy to curdle and the noodles to break apart.

For more tips on creamy soup storage and reheating, check out these Pinterest soup guides.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you’ll keep your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup tasting fresh and delicious, whether you enjoy it the next day or weeks later! Up next, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about this amazing soup.

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Crack Chicken Noodle Soup. These tips will help you customize, troubleshoot, and perfect your soup every time!

1. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! A slow cooker makes this soup even easier:

Add chicken, broth, onion, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
Shred the chicken, then stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese.
Add cooked egg noodles just before serving to prevent them from getting too soft.

For more slow cooker soup ideas, check out this Pinterest collection of slow cooker soup recipes.

2. How Can I Make It Gluten-Free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply swap the egg noodles for:

Gluten-free pasta (chickpea, rice, or quinoa-based)
Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
Cauliflower rice

Make sure to also use a gluten-free chicken broth, as some brands contain hidden gluten.

3. Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful alternative to cooking fresh chicken. Simply:

Remove the skin and shred about 3 cups of rotisserie chicken.
Add it to the soup when you pour in the broth to absorb the flavors.

Using rotisserie chicken saves time while keeping the soup rich and delicious.

4. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Soup?

For the best results:

Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round.

Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the dairy to separate. More reheating tips can be found in our Pinterest creamy soup guides.

5. How Do I Prevent the Cream Cheese from Clumping?

To ensure a smooth, creamy texture:

Use room-temperature cream cheese before adding it to the soup.
Whisk the cream cheese with a bit of warm broth before stirring it in.
Stir constantly while melting it into the soup to avoid lumps.

By following these simple fixes, your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup will turn out perfectly creamy every time!

Ultimate Guide to Crack Chicken Noodle Soup

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the warmth of traditional chicken noodle soup with the rich, creamy flavors of cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and crispy turkey bacon. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week. The combination of shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a velvety broth makes it incredibly flavorful and filling.

This easy-to-make soup can be customized to fit different dietary preferences, including low-carb, keto, and gluten-free variations. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Ingredients

Scale

For the soup base:

1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups cooked shredded chicken
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For extra flavor:

6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped green onions

Instructions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in shredded chicken, dried parsley, dried dill, salt, and black pepper.

Reduce heat to low and add softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.

Stir in heavy cream, then add the egg noodles. Simmer until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Once the noodles are cooked, add crumbled turkey bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the soup.

Remove from heat and top with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Best Chicken to Use: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience, but fresh shredded chicken provides the best flavor.
Preventing Dairy Curdling: Always add cream cheese and heavy cream over low heat to maintain a smooth texture.
Noodle Alternatives: For a low-carb version, substitute zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or shirataki noodles.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, omit the noodles and add fresh ones when reheating.
Reheating Instructions: Warm gently over medium-low heat to keep the soup creamy and smooth. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Serving Suggestion: Pair with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.