When the weather turns chilly or you’re in need of a comforting bowl of goodness, there’s nothing quite like a hearty soup to warm your spirits. Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is not just a delightful dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every spoonful. Inspired by the ever-popular crack chicken recipes, this soup combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and savory ranch flavors into a meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends. What makes this particular recipe special is its simplicity and ability to please even the pickiest of eaters—kids and adults alike will find it hard to resist!
Why you’ll love this dish
This isn’t just any chicken soup; it’s a creamy, dreamy bowl packed with comfort. Maybe you’re looking for a dish that comes together quickly or perhaps you’re needing something substantial yet affordable. Crack Chicken and Rice Soup has you covered. With the heartiness of chicken and rice, adorned with fresh veggies, and enriched with a delightful ranch seasoning, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to various tastes and dietary needs, so you can feel good about serving it again and again.
"This soup is a hug in a bowl! It’s just what I needed for a cold day!" – A satisfied reviewer
Step-by-step overview
Making Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is as easy as it is rewarding! In just a few steps, you can create a dish that boasts flavor and nutrition. Start by cooking your chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables in chicken broth. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it back into the pot and stir in rice and a packet of ranch seasoning to elevate the taste. Finish it off with a splash of heavy cream for that perfect creaminess. The best part? This recipe is otherwise simple, allowing you to craft a meal that feels gourmet yet comes together in a snap.
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for a delicious pot of soup:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, green onions, bacon
Feel free to swap out the rice for a whole grain alternative or adjust the vegetable quantities based on your preferences!
Directions to follow
- In a large pot, begin by adding the chicken, onion, carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Sprinkle in the rice and ranch seasoning mix, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the rice is perfectly tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve hot and consider finishing it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon for an extra touch of flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to enjoying your Crack Chicken and Rice Soup, there are plenty of creative ways to elevate your serving. Ladle it into a bowl and top it with a sprinkle of green onions for a pop of color. Serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping or a fresh side salad to balance the meal. For a fun twist, you can even offer a selection of toppings on the side like crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or even a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a bit of heat.
How to store & freeze
Once you’ve savored your delicious soup, storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to consume the frozen portions within 2-3 months for best quality. When reheating, always ensure that the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
For those who are looking to enhance their cooking skills, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- For the juiciest chicken, consider using thighs instead of breasts; they offer more flavor and moisture.
- A splash of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors in the soup.
- If you’re in a hurry, using rotisserie chicken can cut down on prep time significantly.
- Don’t skip on seasoning; taste as you go to find that perfect flavor balance!
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! Here are a few variations to spark your creativity:
- Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for a kick!
- Veggie-rich: Throw in extra vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition.
- Mexican flair: Add corn and black beans along with taco seasoning instead of ranch for a different flavor profile.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep and cooking time together usually take about 45 minutes to an hour. It’s quite efficient for a meal that feels hearty!Can I substitute the rice for another grain?
Absolutely! Quinoa, barley, or even cauliflower rice can work instead of traditional rice, just adjust cooking times as needed.How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.Is this meal kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and familiar flavors make it a hit among kids. Customize toppings to meet their preferences for a meal that they’ll love.
With its array of comforting ingredients and a creaminess that satisfies, Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is a recipe worth making again and again. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or at a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress!
Print
Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting bowl of creamy chicken and rice soup enriched with savory ranch flavors, perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, green onions, bacon
Instructions
- In a large pot, add the chicken, onion, carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Sprinkle in the rice and ranch seasoning mix, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. A splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American