Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: Comforting and Flavorful, With a Healthy Twist
When it comes to comfort food, Crack Chicken Noodle Soup delivers all the heartwarming qualities you crave—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor—while still offering a healthy, balanced alternative to traditional creamy soups. With its hearty chicken, fresh vegetables, creamy base, and savory turkey bacon, this soup is a delicious meal that will fill you up and keep you coming back for more. Best of all, it’s easily customizable to suit your dietary needs, and it’s perfectly suited for those following the Weight Watchers program.
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup combines the classic flavors of chicken noodle soup with the richness of cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a meal prep option, or a comforting bowl of soup to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Rich & Creamy Texture: Thanks to the addition of cream cheese and cheddar cheese, this soup has a luxurious, creamy texture that satisfies those comfort food cravings. But don’t worry—it’s still a lighter version compared to traditional creamy soups.
Packed with Protein: The shredded chicken and turkey bacon provide a hearty dose of lean protein, making this soup a filling and balanced meal.
Low in Calories: With simple swaps like low-sodium broth and turkey bacon, this version of crack chicken noodle soup is lower in fat and sodium, making it more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor.
Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Weight Watchers-Friendly: This recipe is adaptable to the Weight Watchers program, with options for reducing points and calories.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe (Serves 4)
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium broth to keep it healthy)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (skinless and boneless for a leaner option)
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (use reduced-fat cheese for fewer calories)
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice, whole wheat or gluten-free noodles work great)
1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (for a lighter version, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. The onion should be translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for another 3 minutes. The vegetables should begin to soften, releasing their natural flavors into the oil.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Allow the soup to heat up, and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cream Cheese
Now it’s time to add the creamy richness to the soup. Drop the cubed cream cheese into the pot and stir constantly until the cream cheese melts into the broth. The mixture should become smooth and creamy, forming a rich base for the soup. Be patient, as this can take a few minutes to fully incorporate.
Step 4: Add the Cheddar Cheese and Seasonings
Once the cream cheese has fully melted and the soup has reached a creamy consistency, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely into the broth, adding a velvety texture to the soup. Next, add the dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Now, stir in the egg noodles (or the pasta of your choice). Let the soup simmer for about 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and fully cooked. The noodles should absorb some of the soup’s flavor while softening to the perfect texture.
Step 6: Stir in the Turkey Bacon
Once the noodles are done, add the crumbled turkey bacon to the soup. Stir gently to combine, allowing the turkey bacon to warm through. The turkey bacon adds a savory, crispy bite to the soup, creating an enjoyable contrast to the creamy base and tender chicken.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a touch of color and a fresh herbaceous note to the final dish. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth of this crack chicken noodle soup.
Nutrition Information per Serving (1 bowl)
Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 26g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 790mg (varies based on broth and bacon used)
Cholesterol: 40mg
Potassium: 520mg
Calcium: 150mg
Iron: 1.5mg
Weight Watchers Points Breakdown
For those following the Weight Watchers program, this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup comes in at approximately 6 SmartPoints per serving (based on 4 servings per recipe). The points may vary depending on the specific ingredients used, such as whether you use full-fat or reduced-fat cheese or regular bacon instead of turkey bacon.
How to Lower the Points:
Use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese: This will lower the fat content and reduce points.
Substitute whole wheat or low-carb noodles: This will keep the carbs lower while still adding fiber, reducing points slightly.
Omit the cheese entirely: If you want to cut points further, skip the cheddar cheese altogether, but you will lose some creaminess.
Health Benefits of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
High in Protein: The shredded chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Vitamins: The carrots and celery offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, and potassium, which contribute to skin health, bone health, and overall well-being.
Low in Fat: By using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and opting for low-sodium chicken broth, this recipe helps reduce the overall fat and sodium content, making it heart-healthier.
Calcium Source: The addition of cheddar cheese and cream cheese provides a good source of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Tips for Perfecting Your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Make-Ahead Option: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding extra broth if needed.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a faster option, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred the meat and add it to the pot in place of freshly cooked chicken for a shortcut that saves time.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to personalize your soup. Thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of paprika can enhance the flavor profile and add depth to the soup.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer soup, you can increase the amount of cream cheese or cheddar cheese. For a lighter version, simply cut back on the cheese or use a fat-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Delight
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup. This creamy, cheesy soup is packed with flavor, thanks to the rich combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Topped off with turkey bacon for a touch of crunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Not only is this soup delicious and satisfying, but it can also be easily adjusted to meet a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers, managing your sodium intake, or simply looking for a hearty meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, this soup can fit perfectly into your meal plan.
Why Choose Crack Chicken Noodle Soup?
Rich and Creamy Comfort: The cream cheese and cheddar cheese create a rich, velvety texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
High in Protein: With shredded chicken and turkey bacon, this soup provides a good amount of lean protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
Healthy Vegetables: The addition of carrots, celery, and onion ensures you’re getting a serving of vegetables with each bowl.
Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe can be customized with your favorite vegetables or noodles and adjusted to suit dietary preferences, like low-sodium broth or gluten-free noodles.
Weight Watchers-Friendly: This creamy soup fits within Weight Watchers’ SmartPoints system, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without feeling guilty.
Crack Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe (Serves 4)
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium or homemade broth for a healthier option)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (preferably rotisserie or leftover chicken)
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or gluten-free noodles if preferred)
1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Continue sautéing for another 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, releasing their natural flavors.
Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth, making sure to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Add the shredded cooked chicken, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Add the cubed cream cheese and stir until it has completely melted and blended into the broth. This creates a creamy base for the soup, giving it that signature rich texture.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted into the broth, giving the soup its velvety texture and cheesy flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles (or noodles of your choice) to the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still firm. Be sure to keep an eye on the noodles, as overcooking them can cause them to become too soft and mushy.
Step 6: Add Turkey Bacon
Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, stir in the crumbled turkey bacon. Allow the bacon to warm through, adding a crispy texture and smoky flavor that complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the comfort of this creamy, cheesy, and hearty bowl of Crack Chicken Noodle Soup.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 345 kcal
Protein: 27g
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g (from vegetables and broth)
Sodium: 550mg (using low-sodium broth)
Cholesterol: 80mg
Weight Watchers Points Breakdown
For those following the Weight Watchers program, this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is calculated to be approximately 6 SmartPoints per serving on the Blue, Green, and Purple plans.
How to Reduce Points:
Use a reduced-fat cream cheese: Switching to a lower-fat cream cheese will reduce the fat content, bringing the points down to 5 SmartPoints per serving.
Skip the turkey bacon: If you’re looking to lower the points further, omit the turkey bacon, which would bring it down to 4 SmartPoints per serving.
Use a lower-fat cheese: Opt for a reduced-fat or fat-free shredded cheese for fewer calories and points.
Why This Soup is Healthy and Satisfying
High in Protein
The shredded chicken and turkey bacon make this soup a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance, immune function, and overall health. Protein also helps keep you fuller for longer, making this soup a satisfying meal.
Packed with Vegetables
With carrots, celery, and onions, this soup is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A (from carrots) and fiber (from all the vegetables), which help support healthy digestion.
Creamy Yet Light
Despite its creamy texture, this soup isn’t overly heavy. The cream cheese and cheddar cheese give it the richness you expect from a comfort food, but you won’t feel weighed down after eating it. Using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting the cheese and bacon content ensures you’re not overloading on unhealthy fats and sodium.
Good Fats
The addition of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and help keep your skin and hair in good condition. Turkey bacon, a leaner alternative to regular bacon, provides a hint of smokiness without the extra fat and calories.
Customizing Your Crack Chicken Noodle Soup
This recipe is highly customizable depending on your dietary needs and preferences:
Low-Carb Option: Substitute the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Dairy-Free Version: Use non-dairy cream cheese (such as cashew cream cheese) and dairy-free cheese to make this soup dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Version: Swap the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles to accommodate gluten-free diets.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken and turkey bacon with plant-based alternatives such as shredded tofu and veggie bacon for a vegetarian-friendly soup.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a Salad: Serve this soup alongside a light salad to balance out the richness of the soup.
Crusty Bread: A slice of whole-grain bread or crusty sourdough pairs wonderfully with this creamy soup. It’s great for dipping!
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Crack Chicken Noodle Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the flavors of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, full of protein and flavor, and adaptable to a variety of dietary preferences. Plus, with its reasonable Weight Watchers points, it’s