Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Indulge in the addictive flavors of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and rice all simmered in a savory ranch-seasoned broth. You’ll find this recipe not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to comfort food for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The unique combination of ranch seasoning and cream cheese creates a rich and creamy broth that enhances the taste of every ingredient.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with crusty bread, this soup is adaptable to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and textures in every bite.
• Make Ahead Option: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal meal prep option.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this scrumptious Crack Chicken and Rice Soup, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot ensures even heating, allowing for perfect simmering of your soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

To make the delightful Crack Chicken and Rice Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, (diced (approximately 1 cup))
• 2 large carrots, (diced into ¼-inch pieces (approximately 1 cup))
• 2 ribs celery, (diced into ¼-inch pieces (approximately 1 cup))
• 2 teaspoons garlic, (minced)

Seasonings

• 1 packet (1 ounce / 3 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups (48 ounces) chicken broth
• 1 cup (185 g) long-grain white rice, (uncooked)
• 2 cups (280 g) rotisserie chicken, (shredded and cubed)
• 4 ounces (½ package) cream cheese, (softened)
• Fresh parsley, (for garnish)

How to Make Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

To start, heat your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter until melted.
* Once melted, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 8–10 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
* Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Next, incorporate the seasonings into your sautéed vegetables.
* Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, dried basil, kosher salt, oregano, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth

Now it’s time to add liquid to your mixture.
* Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.
* Add uncooked rice to the pot and stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Allow the soup to simmer for about 20–25 minutes.
* Keep an eye on it until the rice is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish with Chicken and Cream Cheese

Finally, enhance your soup’s creaminess!
* Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and softened cream cheese until fully melted.

Step 7: Serve

Your Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is ready!
* Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley for that extra touch of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate this hearty soup.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve the soup with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Pair it with garlic bread to add a flavorful crunch.

Garnished with Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a hint of sharpness.
• Shredded Cheese – Add a handful of shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

As Part of a Meal

• Simple Salad – A light green salad makes a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for added nutrition.

In a Bread Bowl

• Edible Bread Bowl – Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with the soup for a fun presentation.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Achieving the perfect Crack Chicken and Rice Soup requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for a delightful dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for the best results.
• Simmer Gently – Maintain a gentle simmer while cooking rice to ensure it cooks evenly without becoming mushy.
• Cream Cheese Integration – Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before adding it, making it easier to blend into the soup.
• Leftover Variations – Feel free to use leftover chicken or other vegetables you have on hand for a quick meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

To complete your meal, consider serving some delightful side dishes alongside Crack Chicken and Rice Soup. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tang that balances the creamy soup.
2. Cornbread Muffins – Soft cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soup’s texture.
5. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty complement to the lighter elements of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Crack Chicken and Rice Soup a success, be mindful of these common pitfalls.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect cooking times. Always let ingredients like broth and cream cheese come to room temperature for optimal blending.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender yet slightly crisp veggies by cooking until just softened.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Use the recommended spices and taste as you go to adjust seasoning if needed.
• Not Stirring Frequently: Failing to stir while simmering can cause rice to stick. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring Storage Guidelines: Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Follow guidelines for refrigeration and freezing to keep your soup fresh longer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat until warm, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crack Chicken and Rice Soup that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I use leftover chicken for Crack Chicken and Rice Soup?

Yes! Leftover chicken works great. Just shred it before adding it to the soup for an easy meal solution.

What can I substitute if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning, create a blend using dried herbs like parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder for a similar flavor profile.

How do I make Crack Chicken and Rice Soup spicier?

To add some heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. Adjust the simmering time accordingly for best results.

Is Crack Chicken and Rice Soup gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth and ensure your ranch seasoning is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to everyone at the dinner table. Its versatility allows for endless customization—consider adding different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Give this comforting dish a try today!