Method: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

  1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Create the Base

  1. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
  2. Add Potatoes (Optional): If using potatoes, add them to the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

  1. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Lower the heat and whisk in the softened cream cheese until it melts into the broth, creating a creamy base.
  2. Add Heavy Cream and Milk: Slowly stir in the heavy cream and milk, mixing thoroughly to combine.

Step 5: Add Chicken, Bacon, and Seasoning

  1. Return Chicken to the Pot: Add the cooked chicken back into the soup, along with the crumbled bacon.
  2. Add Ranch Seasoning: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

  1. Melt the Cheddar: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until fully melted and the soup becomes rich and velvety.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

  1. Corn (Optional): If using corn, add it to the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
  2. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Serving the Soup

  1. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions, extra bacon bits, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for an irresistible presentation.
  2. Serve With: Serve alongside crusty bread, warm rolls, or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Soup

  1. Chicken Options: Shredded rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
  2. Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering soup.
  3. Low-Carb Version: Skip the potatoes and use cauliflower florets as a substitute for a keto-friendly option.
  4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.

Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Soup

Crack Chicken Soup is everything you could want in a comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with bold flavors. The combination of chicken, cheese, and ranch seasoning creates an addictive blend that’s satisfying and filling. Whether you make it for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy a bowl of this decadent, flavor-packed soup, and don’t be surprised when your guests come back for seconds!