Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup Recipe For Cozy Evenings

Creamy, comforting slow cooker crack chicken soup delivers pure culinary magic right to your kitchen.

Busy home cooks adore this ridiculously simple meal that practically prepares itself.

Tender shredded chicken melts into a rich, velvety broth packed with irresistible flavors.

Cream cheese adds luxurious depth while ranch seasoning brings a zesty punch.

Minimal ingredients combine for maximum satisfaction in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Weeknight dinners just got way more delicious – you won’t believe how easy this comes together.

Grab a ladle and get ready to become the dinner hero everyone will cheer for.

What’s in Crack Chicken Soup

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender meat that forms the foundation of the soup.
  • Bacon: Crispy, smoky flavor enhancer.
Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Cream Cheese: Rich and smooth base for creamy texture.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds depth and creamy consistency.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty and provides extra cheesy flavor.
Liquid and Seasoning:
  • Chicken Broth: Provides liquid base and savory background.
  • Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds zesty and herb-like flavor profile.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds subtle garlic flavor.
  • Onion Powder: Provides mild onion undertone.
  • Black Pepper: Offers slight spicy kick.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Frozen Corn: Adds sweet and textural element.
  • Baby Spinach Leaves: Optional fresh green boost.
  • Green Onions: Optional fresh and mild onion flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish for brightness.

How to Cook Crack Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Base

Place chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker.

This creates a perfect foundation for your delicious soup.

Step 2: Build Flavor Layers

Gather these ingredients and add them to the slow cooker:
  • Cream cheese (cubed)
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth
  • Ranch seasoning mix
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Black pepper

Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic.

Cook on low setting for 6-8 hours or on high setting for 3-4 hours.

The chicken should become incredibly tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Transform the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker.

Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Return the shredded chicken back into the soup mixture.

Step 5: Add Decadent Mix-Ins

Stir in these delightful ingredients:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped bacon
  • Frozen corn

Allow the soup to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

This helps the cheese melt completely and warms the corn through.

Step 6: Optional Fresh Touches

For extra brightness, consider adding:
  • Baby spinach leaves
  • Chopped green onions

Incorporate these during the final 10 minutes of cooking.

The spinach will gently wilt, and the green onions will provide a fresh flavor boost.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls.

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve alongside crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

Tips to Master Crack Chicken Soup

  • Adjust slow cooker settings based on your schedule – low and slow for tender meat or high and quick for busy days.
  • Cover chicken completely with liquid and avoid overcooking to maintain moisture and prevent tough texture.
  • Add shredded cheese near the end of cooking to prevent separation and ensure smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Cook bacon separately and sprinkle on top just before serving to maintain crunchiness and prevent sogginess.
  • Blend a portion of soup for thicker consistency or add extra broth for a lighter soup if desired.

Save and Reheat Crack Chicken Soup Easily

  • Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the soup's flavor.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Pour soup into a saucepan, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Soup Pairings That Go Well

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel to complement the rich, creamy flavors of the crack chicken soup, cutting through its hearty texture and enhancing the savory bacon notes.
  • Crusty Sourdough Bread Companions: Slice a warm, tangy sourdough loaf to soak up the luxurious soup base, providing a perfect textural contrast and additional depth to each delightful spoonful.
  • Crisp Green Salad Counterpoint: Toss a light, zesty salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a bright vinaigrette to balance the soup's creamy intensity and add a refreshing element to the meal.
  • Cool Craft Beer Match: Choose a hoppy IPA or a smooth amber ale to stand up to the soup's bold flavors, offering a refreshing counterpoint that cuts through the richness and cleanses the palate.

Spin Ideas for Crack Chicken Soup

  • Low-Sodium Version: Replace ranch seasoning mix and cream of chicken soup with homemade low-sodium chicken broth, fresh herbs, and reduced-sodium seasonings to decrease salt content while maintaining flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternative, use coconut milk instead of chicken broth, and replace cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast for creamy texture and cheesy taste.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Swap chicken breasts with plant-based chicken substitute or firm tofu, use vegetable broth, and add extra protein through chickpeas or white beans while keeping similar seasoning profile.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Remove corn, increase protein quantity, use full-fat cream cheese, swap regular bacon for uncured bacon, and add extra heavy cream to boost fat content while reducing carbohydrate ingredients.

FAQs

  • Is ranch seasoning mix necessary for the recipe?

Yes, ranch seasoning mix is crucial as it provides the signature flavor profile that makes this crack chicken soup delicious and gives it a tangy, herbal taste.

  • Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh chicken breasts work perfectly in this slow cooker recipe. Just ensure they are fully thawed before adding to the slow cooker for even cooking.

  • What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using chicken broth and heavy cream mixed with flour to create a similar consistency and creamy texture.

  • How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Cooking on low heat for the recommended time and using chicken breasts with some fat content helps keep the meat tender and juicy. The liquid ingredients also help maintain moisture throughout the cooking process.

Why Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup Hits the Spot

  • Toss ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, creating a hands-off cooking experience that's perfect for busy days.
  • Packed with creamy ranch, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, this soup delivers an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Easily adapt the recipe by adding extra veggies like spinach or corn, making it a versatile dish that caters to different preferences and nutritional needs.
  • Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction combine in this hearty soup that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal right in your kitchen.
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Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup Recipe

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy slow cooker crack chicken soup delivers comfort in a bowl, blending tender shredded chicken with rich, cheesy goodness. Hearty ingredients meld together, creating a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Chicken:

  • 1 pound boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
  • 8 slices cooked bacon (chopped)
  • 1 1-ounce packet ranch seasoning mix

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Liquid and Vegetable Ingredients:

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 10.5-ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups frozen corn
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup chopped green onions (optional)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))

Instructions

  1. Position chicken breasts along the base of the slow cooker, creating an even layer for consistent cooking.
  2. Incorporate cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Gently mix ingredients until well combined.
  3. Secure the lid and set slow cooker to low temperature for 6-8 hours or high temperature for 3-4 hours, ensuring chicken becomes thoroughly tender and fully cooked.
  4. Extract chicken from liquid and use two forks to meticulously shred meat into tender, bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken back into the slow cooker.
  5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon pieces, and frozen corn. Allow mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, enabling cheese to melt completely and corn to warm through.
  6. During final cooking minutes, optionally incorporate baby spinach leaves and chopped green onions, which will gently wilt and infuse additional freshness into the soup.
  7. Transfer soup into serving bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Accompany with crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt to reduce fat and add protein, creating a lighter version of the soup without compromising flavor.
  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth and ranch seasoning to control salt intake, perfect for those monitoring sodium levels.
  • Customize protein options by substituting chicken with turkey or plant-based alternatives like tofu for vegetarian adaptations.
  • Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for quick meal prep, storing up to 3 months while maintaining rich, creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 33 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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