This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! With tender chicken, delicious spices, and a touch of ranch, it’s a comfort food dream.
Honestly, it’s so good, you might find yourself craving it again the next day. Perfect for cozy nights when you want something warm and satisfying! 🍲
I love making this soup because it cooks all day while I do other things. Just toss in the ingredients, and let the slow cooker do its magic—it couldn’t be easier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish since they get super tender in the slow cooker. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat; they add a richer flavor.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This mix gives the soup its signature flavor. If you’re out, homemade ranch seasoning with dried herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder is a perfect substitute.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese makes the soup creamy. For a lighter version, you could swap it for Greek yogurt, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its tanginess. You can substitute it with any cheese you prefer like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a nice crunch. If you want a healthier or vegetarian option, skip the bacon altogether or opt for turkey bacon.
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it right in your slow cooker! Once the cooking time is up and the chicken is tender, take two forks and pull the chicken apart into shreds.
- Just insert the forks into the chicken and pull them in opposite directions.
- Shred the chicken within the broth – this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Make sure to mix the shredded chicken back with the other ingredients for a well-distributed flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 ounce)
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups fresh kale or spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Just set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. These will be the heart of your soup, so make sure they’re fresh and ready to go!
2. Add the Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth, which gives the soup its yummy base. Next, sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the top of the chicken. This will infuse the soup with delicious flavor.
3. Add the Cream Cheese:
Take your cream cheese and place it right in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s submerged in the broth—this will help it melt nicely and create that creamy texture we love!
4. Let it Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. You can move on to other things while it cooks!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to shred it! Using two forks, carefully shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. It’ll be super easy as it should fall apart nicely!
6. Mix in the Goodness:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped kale or spinach, and sliced green onions. Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and all the ingredients are well combined. It’s going to look fantastic!
7. Final Touches:
Give the soup a little taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. You want it to be just right for your taste buds!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve your hot, creamy crack chicken soup! Dish it out into bowls and enjoy this delicious meal with family or friends. Perfect for cozy nights!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Simply place them in the slow cooker without thawing. Just remember to extend the cooking time by about an hour, so the chicken is cooked through and tender. It’s always best to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free substitute, you can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese. Just keep in mind that yogurt will give a tangier flavor, so taste and adjust accordingly!
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Absolutely! You can add diced carrots, celery, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the slow cooker at the same time as the chicken, so they’ll cook through by the end. Adjust the broth slightly if you add more ingredients!
