Indulge in the addictive flavors of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, bringing together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice in a savory ranch-seasoned broth. Ideal for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal, this soup stands out with its rich flavor profile and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious soup ready to serve in about 50 minutes.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning and cream cheese creates a creamy, flavorful broth that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile Meal Option: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside your favorite bread for dipping.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s a wholesome choice for any family dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Crack Chicken and Rice Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Using the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without spilling.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
Ingredients
Indulge in the addictive flavors of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup. This hearty dish is packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and rice in a savory ranch-seasoned broth!
For the Soup 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
For the Soup
- 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: Heat the Pot
To a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Once butter is melted, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, stirring occasionally (about 8-10 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Add ranch seasoning, basil, salt, oregano, and pepper. Stir to combine well.
Step 4: Boil the Broth
Add chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Incorporate Rice
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add rice to the broth mixture. Stir to combine thoroughly.
Step 6: Simmer & Combine
Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and tender. Then add diced chicken and cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and combined.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
Serve immediately in bowls garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup!
How to Serve Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to enjoy this comforting soup even more.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of a freshly baked baguette for dipping into the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread for a flavorful complement.
Topped with Greens
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a crunch and added color.
- Shredded Cheese: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
Complementary Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp texture that balances the soup’s richness.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers freshness alongside the hearty soup.
How to Perfect Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
Perfecting your Crack Chicken and Rice Soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to make it even more delicious.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth make a significant difference in flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more spices based on your preference.
- Cook Rice Separately: If you prefer, cook the rice separately and add it just before serving to prevent overcooking.
- Add More Veggies: Consider adding peas or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
Serving side dishes alongside Crack Chicken and Rice Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs well with the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings additional textures and flavors to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: The fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in Caprese salad offer a refreshing taste that complements the rich soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies provide an eye-catching presentation alongside your soup.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate while adding a sweet touch at the end of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crack Chicken and Rice Soup experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always cook your onions, carrots, and celery first.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can make your soup taste bland. Use a good quality chicken broth or homemade broth for the best results.
- Overcooking the Rice: Adding rice too early or cooking it too long can result in mushy grains. Always follow the timing closely for perfect texture.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings: Every brand of ranch seasoning is different. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to your preference.
- Forgetting to Garnish: Skipping fresh parsley may seem minor, but it adds freshness and color. Always finish your soup with a sprinkle of herbs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.
Freezing Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated evenly.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Crack Chicken and Rice Soup:
What is Crack Chicken and Rice Soup?
Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is a savory dish made with tender chicken, vegetables, rice, and ranch seasonings that create a comforting bowl of goodness.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for using leftover chicken. Just shred or cube it before adding it to the soup.
How can I customize my Crack Chicken and Rice Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or corn for extra nutrition. You could also experiment with different herbs for added flavor.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup stores well, making it great for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above.
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your palate. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, so don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!
Crack Chicken and Rice Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup—a delightful blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice simmered in a savory ranch-seasoned broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a meal prep option, this hearty soup is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal preparation and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this rich dish in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Garnished with fresh parsley, each bowl serves up hearty nutrition that warms the soul.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter.
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened (8–10 minutes). Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in ranch seasoning, then add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and stir in rice; simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Fold in shredded chicken and cream cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg