Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Indulge in the addictive flavors of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup. This hearty dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rice simmered in a savory ranch-seasoned broth. Ideal for cozy dinners, this soup offers comfort and satisfaction, making it suitable for family gatherings or a simple weeknight meal. Its unique combination of flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful: The ranch seasoning brings a burst of flavor that elevates the dish, making it irresistible.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course or paired with crusty bread for dipping, this soup adapts to any occasion.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and protein from chicken, it’s a wholesome option for families.
• Leftover Friendly: Great for using up leftover chicken or rice, minimizing food waste while maximizing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth and efficient, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you’ll need to prepare this delightful soup.

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 allows even cooking and prevents sticking while simmering your soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for stirring ingredients without damaging your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping veggies accurately to ensure they cook evenly.

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)
• 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 Filling

• 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)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, (for garnish)

How to Make Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Step 1: Heat the Base

To a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once butter is melted:
1. Add onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook until softened, stirring occasionally (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Add ranch seasoning, basil, salt, oregano, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add rice to the pot:
– Stir well to combine everything.

Step 6: Simmer Until Ready

Simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked through:
– Add diced chicken and cream cheese.
– Stir until cream cheese is completely melted into the soup.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately in bowls:
– Garnish with fresh parsley as desired.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy a bowl of comforting Crack Chicken and Rice Soup that will warm your heart!

How to Serve Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a cozy lunch, here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with buttery garlic bread for a flavorful and indulgent side.

Topped with Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions – Add a fresh crunch by sprinkling chopped green onions on top.
• Shredded Cheese – Melt some cheese on top for an extra creamy texture.

As a Meal Prep Option

• In Meal Prep Containers – Portion the soup into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Frozen Portions – Freeze leftovers in individual portions for a quick meal later.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Making the perfect Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Taste the broth before serving; you may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Cook Rice Separately if Needed – If you prefer firmer rice, cook it separately and add it just before serving instead of simmering it in the soup.
• Let It Sit Before Serving – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

Pairing sides with Crack Chicken and Rice Soup can enhance your meal. Consider these tasty options that complement the soup perfectly.

1. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
2. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cheesy Biscuits – Flaky biscuits with cheese are perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make a hearty side dish.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crack Chicken and Rice Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong rice: Not all rice types cook the same way. Stick with long-grain white rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for a tender but still firm texture by cooking them just until softened.
• Skipping the seasoning: The ranch seasoning is essential for flavor. Don’t forget to add it at the right stage for maximum impact.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Ensure your chicken is shredded or cubed evenly; this helps it blend seamlessly into the soup.
• Ignoring broth quality: A good quality chicken broth makes all the difference. Opt for low-sodium versions if you prefer more control over salt levels.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup freezes well for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave space for expansion.

Reheating Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crack Chicken and Rice Soup:

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Leftover chicken works great in this recipe and adds extra flavor.

How can I customize Crack Chicken and Rice Soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or corn, or even switch up the seasonings based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after a day as flavors meld together beautifully.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken and Rice Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken and Rice Soup is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various ingredients or sides!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crack Chicken and Rice Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Crack Chicken and Rice Soup, a delightful blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rice simmered in a flavorful ranch-seasoned broth. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. With its deliciously creamy texture and savory profile, it’s no wonder everyone will be asking for seconds! Easy to prepare in under an hour, this dish combines convenience with nourishment, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 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
• 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

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and butter until melted.
2. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery for 8-10 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in ranch seasoning, dried basil, salt, oregano, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in uncooked rice.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender; then add shredded chicken and cream cheese until melted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 60mg