When the weather cools down or you’re in need of a comforting, hearty meal, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup. Crack Chicken & Rice Soup is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something rich and flavorful. This recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese in a savory broth, all balanced by the subtle tang of ranch seasoning. The addition of long-grain white rice makes it a filling and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious, comforting soup.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 5½ cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 1 (1-oz) package ranch dressing mix
- 1 (10.5-oz) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- ⅔ cup uncooked long-grain white rice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced carrots, and diced celery. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the Chicken and Bacon:
- Stir in the chopped cooked chicken and the chopped cooked bacon into the pot. These ingredients will add richness and a smoky flavor to the soup, enhancing its comforting qualities.
- Incorporate the Ranch and Cheese:
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix into the pot, stirring to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Then, add the condensed cheddar cheese soup, stirring until it is fully incorporated and the broth takes on a creamy texture.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add the uncooked long-grain white rice to the pot. Stir the rice into the soup, making sure it is fully submerged in the broth. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and tender.
- Adjust and Serve:
- Once the rice is fully cooked, give the soup a good stir. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Ladle the Crack Chicken & Rice Soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or additional cooked bacon if desired.
Conclusion:
Crack Chicken & Rice Soup is a delightful blend of creamy, savory flavors that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. The combination of tender chicken, smoky bacon, and rich cheddar cheese, all seasoned with the familiar tang of ranch dressing, makes this soup a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or when you’re in need of some comfort food, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious payoff of this hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion.