Masters of kitchen
If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and downright addictive — this Crack Chicken Soup Recipe is your golden ticket. Loaded with juicy shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning, it’s the kind of comfort food that makes you go back for seconds (or thirds — no judgment here). It’s everything you love about “crack chicken” but in cozy soup form, perfect for chilly nights or lazy weekends.
I remember the first time I made this recipe — it was one of those “scrolling through Pinterest at midnight” moments. I spotted the words “bacon, cheese, ranch, and chicken” in one bowl, and let’s just say, I was sold before I read the instructions. Since then, this soup has become a family favorite we whip up at least twice a month, especially during soup season.
Let’s dive into this easy, creamy, soul-hugging soup you’ll want to keep on repeat.
What Is Crack Chicken Soup?
“Crack chicken” gets its quirky name from how addictive the flavor combo is — not from any actual shady ingredients. This wildly popular combo of ranch seasoning, bacon, cheddar, and cream cheese first gained fame as a crockpot shredded chicken dish. But someone brilliant had the idea to turn it into soup… and the rest is creamy history.
Think of it as a cross between loaded potato soup, chicken bacon ranch dip, and your favorite one-pot dinner. Only this one is way easier to make and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create a pot of crack chicken soup that’ll disappear before your eyes. (Ingredient swaps included!)
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Chicken – Boneless skinless breasts or thighs work great. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken.
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Bacon – Crispy, smoky, and essential. Reserve some to sprinkle on top.
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Ranch seasoning mix – Store-bought or homemade — this gives it that signature flavor.
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Cream cheese – Use the block-style kind for the creamiest results.
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Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can use a blend.
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Chicken broth – Low-sodium preferred so you can control saltiness.
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Carrots & celery – Optional, but add nice texture and balance.
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Garlic – Fresh minced adds a flavor boost.
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Onion – Yellow or white; sautéed to bring out sweetness.
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Heavy cream or half-and-half – Optional for extra richness.
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Butter or olive oil – For sautéing aromatics.
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Salt & black pepper – Adjust to taste.
Pro tip: Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale at the end for a veggie boost without altering the flavor.
How to Make Crack Chicken Soup (Step-by-Step)
This soup comes together easily whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even using an Instant Pot. Below are the step-by-step instructions for each.
Stovetop Method (My Go-To)
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Cook the bacon
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain all but 1 tbsp of the grease. -
Sauté aromatics
Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté in bacon fat or butter until softened, about 5–6 minutes. -
Add chicken and broth
Stir in raw chicken pieces and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. -
Shred the chicken
Remove the chicken and shred with two forks (or use a hand mixer for speed). Return shredded chicken to the pot. -
Stir in dairy & seasonings
Add ranch seasoning, cream cheese (cut into cubes), and shredded cheddar. Stir continuously until melted and creamy. Pour in a splash of cream or half-and-half if desired. -
Simmer and finish
Let the soup gently simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or more ranch seasoning. -
Top and serve
Ladle into bowls, top with crispy bacon bits and extra cheddar, and serve warm.
Optional Add-In: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives this soup a subtle kick!
Crockpot Version (Set It and Forget It)
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Place raw chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, ranch seasoning, and broth into the slow cooker.
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Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
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Shred the chicken, then stir in cream cheese and cheddar. Cover and cook for 20–30 more minutes until melted and smooth.
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Stir well, top with bacon, and enjoy!
Instant Pot Method (For Busy Days)
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Sauté the bacon in the Instant Pot using the Sauté setting. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté onion, garlic, and veggies for a few minutes.
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Add chicken, ranch seasoning, and broth. Pressure cook on High for 10 minutes. Let release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release.
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Shred chicken, stir in cheeses, and switch to Sauté to melt and simmer.
Expert Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Soup
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Use block cream cheese, not the whipped tub kind – It melts smoother and creates a thicker soup.
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Wait to add the bacon until serving – Keeps it crispy and full of flavor.
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Need to thicken it? Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) at the end.
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Like it spicier? Add hot sauce, chili flakes, or a spoonful of diced green chiles.
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Meal prep bonus: This soup reheats beautifully and actually tastes better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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It’s a one-pot wonder – minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
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Packed with protein, fat, and cheesy goodness – very satisfying.
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Totally customizable – low carb, gluten-free, spicy, veggie-loaded? Done.
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Freezer-friendly for busy weeknights.
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Kids love it. Adults crave it. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best parts about this crack chicken soup recipe is how easy it is to customize based on your mood, pantry, or diet goals. Whether you want it heartier, lighter, spicier, or more veggie-packed — there’s a delicious spin for everyone.
Low Carb/Keto Crack Chicken Soup
Trying to keep it low carb or keto-friendly? Just make a couple of smart swaps:
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Omit carrots (or replace with chopped cauliflower or broccoli florets).
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Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream.
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Serve as-is or over zucchini noodles or shredded cabbage for extra texture.
Tip: This version is naturally high in fat and protein — perfect for keto diets!
Crack Chicken Tortellini Soup
Looking for an even more indulgent version? Add cheese tortellini near the end of cooking and simmer until tender. It turns this soup into a crack chicken pasta bowl with minimal effort.
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Twist
Love some heat in your meals?
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Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
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Top with hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
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Garnish with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
It’s like a jalapeño popper in soup form — spicy, creamy, and irresistible.
Veggie-Loaded Version
Boost the nutrition while keeping all the flavor:
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Stir in baby spinach, kale, or chopped zucchini in the last 5 minutes.
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Add corn kernels, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.
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Use light cream cheese or reduced-fat cheddar if preferred.
You get a creamy soup and your veggie fix in one bowl!
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
This soup stores and reheats like a dream — just follow these simple tips to keep it tasting fresh:
Storing in the Fridge
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Let the soup cool completely before transferring.
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Tips
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Freeze in individual portions for grab-and-go lunches.
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For best texture, freeze before adding cream cheese and cheddar. Add fresh when reheating.
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Use freezer-safe bags or containers and label with the date.
Reheating
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Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.
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Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much in the fridge.
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Microwave works fine too — stir every 30 seconds for even heating.
Crack Chicken Soup FAQs
Let’s tackle some of the most common questions people have about crack chicken soup, pulled straight from Google’s “People Also Ask” section.
What is crack chicken soup made of?
It’s a creamy, flavorful chicken soup made with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar, chicken, and bacon — often called “crack” chicken because it’s so addictive.
Why is it called crack chicken?
The name refers to its addictive combo of flavors — ranch, bacon, cheddar, cream cheese, and tender chicken — not any actual “crack” ingredient. It’s comfort food at its most crave-worthy!
Can I use canned or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken works in a pinch, but shredded rotisserie chicken gives it more flavor and saves time.
How do I thicken my crack chicken soup?
If you want it extra thick:
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Add more cheddar cheese.
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Simmer uncovered for longer.
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Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
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Add extra cream cheese or heavy cream.
Is this soup keto or low carb?
Yes, with a few minor adjustments (skip carrots, use full-fat dairy), this soup is perfect for keto and low-carb diets.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You can try using:
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Plant-based cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Tofutti)
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Dairy-free cheddar shreds
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Coconut cream instead of heavy cream
Just note: the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Can I make it in a crockpot or Instant Pot?
Yes! This soup works beautifully in both:
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Crockpot: Cook on low 6–7 hours, then stir in cheeses at the end.
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Instant Pot: Pressure cook chicken and broth for 10 mins, shred, then stir in cheeses.
What should I serve with crack chicken soup?
This hearty soup pairs perfectly with:
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Crusty bread or garlic knots
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Side salad with ranch or vinaigrette
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Roasted broccoli or cauliflower
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Cheddar biscuits or cornbread muffins
My Family’s Favorite Way to Eat Crack Chicken Soup
Every time I make this soup, the house smells like a cozy dream — bacon sizzling, garlic softening, cheesy goodness wafting through the air. My kids call it “bacon cheese soup” and practically race to the table when it’s ready. We love serving it in deep bowls with buttery garlic toast on the side and a sprinkle of green onions or extra cheddar on top.
Pro tip? Make a double batch. You’ll thank yourself tomorrow.
More Recipes Like This One
If you enjoyed this Crack Chicken Soup Recipe, here are more cozy, creamy, and flavor-packed soup recipes to warm your bowl next:
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Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe – Classic comfort in a creamy, biscuit-friendly bowl.
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Coconut Curry Shrimp Soup – Bold, creamy, and bursting with Southeast Asian flavor.
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Crockpot Cheesy Potato Soup – Perfectly slow-cooked and loaded with gooey cheddar.
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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe – Hearty, wholesome, and freezer-friendly.
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Tomato Soup Recipe – Rich, velvety, and perfect with a grilled cheese on the side.
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Italian Meatball Soup Recipe – Savory, saucy, and full of tender meatballs and pasta.
Crack Chicken Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Forks or hand mixer (for shredding chicken)
- Optional: Crockpot or Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots sliced (optional)
- 2 celery stalks sliced (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1 oz packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese cubed (block-style)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: green onions extra cheddar, more bacon
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving about 1 tbsp of the bacon grease.
- Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add chicken breasts and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks (or a hand mixer), then return it to the pot.
- Stir in ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Add heavy cream if desired, then simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls, top with reserved crispy bacon and any additional toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Low carb tip: Skip carrots and celery or swap with cauliflower and spinach.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze without dairy for up to 2 months.
- Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Nutrition
Final Thoughts: Why This Crack Chicken Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Rotation
There’s just something magical about crack chicken soup — creamy, cheesy, hearty, and made with love. It hits all the right notes: easy enough for a Monday night, indulgent enough for the weekend, and comforting enough to turn a blah day into a great one.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, cozying up on a cold night, or just looking to treat yourself — this recipe delivers.
Save it, share it, pin it… and most importantly, enjoy every spoonful.