Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

This slow cooker crack chicken noodle soup has been a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal at my house ever since I stumbled upon it on a chilly evening. Its creamy texture paired with tender chicken and the warmth of bacon and cheddar makes it uniquely comforting and satisfying. This recipe delivers all the indulgence of a hearty soup without the hassle of standing over the stove, perfect for busy days when you still crave something homemade and filling.

I first tried this recipe on a weekend when the weather turned unexpectedly cold and it instantly became a repeat. My family adores it so much they request it anytime the temperature drops.

Ingredients

• Bacon: cooked and chopped adds smoky depth and a crunchy finish& choose thick-cut for richness
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and shred beautifully after slow cooking
• Black pepper: enhances flavor with a subtle heat boost& freshly ground is best
• Italian seasoning: brings a fragrant blend of herbs& fresh or dried both work fine
• Ranch seasoning mix: infuses savory tang and creaminess without extra effort
• Celery: chopped to add a mild aromatic crunch& look for firm, bright stalks
• Carrots: peeled and sliced give a slight sweetness and vibrant color& pick firm, orange carrots for best taste
• Yellow onion: diced creates a mellow, sweet base once cooked& pick onions free from blemishes with dry skins
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: contributes creamy thickness and a comforting chicken flavor
• Low-sodium chicken broth: ensures the soup isn’t too salty and helps balance flavors
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into gooey richness& extra sharp cheddar amps up the flavor
• Heavy cream: adds luscious silkiness to the soup& full fat gives the best texture
• Thin spaghetti: uncooked and broken into thirds cooks evenly in the slow cooker, making it easy to portion

Instructions

Sauté the Bacon:

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it is nicely browned and crisp to build a smoky savory base. Chop and set aside to add back later for a perfect crispy contrast.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

Place the chicken breasts, black pepper, Italian seasoning, ranch seasoning, chopped celery, sliced carrots, diced onion, condensed cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. This forms the hearty and flavorful broth base.

Slow Cook until Chicken is Tender:

Cook on the high setting for two and a half to three and a half hours or on low for four to five hours, allowing the chicken to become tender enough to shred easily.

Shred the Chicken:

Carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. This step ensures the chicken will evenly distribute through the soup.

Add Final Ingredients and Cook Pasta:

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and uncooked broken thin spaghetti. Stir gently to combine everything. Continue cooking for twenty to thirty minutes until the cheese is melted and the pasta is soft but not mushy.

My favorite ingredient in this soup is the ranch seasoning mix because it transforms simple ingredients into something super flavorful with almost no effort. I remember the first time I made this, I was skeptical about adding ranch seasoning to soup, but it became an instant hit. The combination of smoky bacon and creamy cheese with ranch spices is truly unforgettable and has become a go-to comfort dish for my family.

Storage Tips

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. Because of the pasta, it thickens over time, so you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to loosen it back up. For longer storage, store the soup without pasta and add fresh cooked noodles just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer less richness, substitute half and half or whole milk for the heavy cream but be mindful it won’t be quite as creamy. Use turkey bacon or omit bacon entirely for a lighter version. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up the creamy broth. A simple green salad or steamed green beans can balance the richness of the soup. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a bright fresh finish.

This soup is easy to prepare yet delivers a delicious, hearty meal perfect for any chilly day.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra richness and tenderness to the dish.

→ Is it necessary to cook the bacon first?

Cooking the bacon beforehand allows it to crisp up and enhances its flavor before adding to the slow cooker.

→ Can I substitute the spaghetti with other pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or orzo can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make the soup thicker?

Adding extra shredded cheese or simmering uncovered for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the broth.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Absolutely, it tastes great reheated and the flavors develop even more after resting overnight.