This Creamy Chicken Ranch Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, creamy broth, and the zesty flavor of ranch seasoning. It’s a quick and easy soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. With a creamy base, a hint of paprika, and a generous amount of cheddar cheese, this soup will satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out. Whether served as a main dish or paired with a side salad, this soup is a delicious and hearty meal for any day of the week.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Cuisine
This soup combines classic American comfort food ingredients, such as chicken, ranch seasoning, and creamy broth, creating a rich, satisfying dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Full List of Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup cream cheese, softened
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant. -
Add the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. -
Cook the Noodles:
Once the broth is simmering, add the egg noodles to the pot. Stir and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. -
Add the Chicken and Seasonings:
Stir in the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning mix, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. -
Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream (or milk), cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. -
Simmer and Serve:
Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or ranch seasoning if desired. -
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 8%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Chicken soup is a classic comfort food found in many cultures, with variations depending on the region. This Creamy Chicken Ranch Soup adds a modern twist to the traditional chicken soup with the use of ranch seasoning, which provides a rich, tangy flavor. It’s a popular recipe for busy families or anyone looking for a quick, hearty meal, especially during the colder months.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese creates a velvety soup that’s packed with flavor.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy broth, this soup is both filling and comforting.
- Easy and Quick: This recipe is quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes to make, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild, creamy flavors and cheesy goodness make this soup a hit with both kids and adults.
Health Benefits
- Chicken: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair and immune health.
- Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel the body.
- Cheese: The cheese in this soup provides calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
- Onions and Garlic: Both onions and garlic have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the immune system and overall health.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair this creamy soup with a fresh green salad, topped with a light vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the dish.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread or dinner rolls to dip into the creamy soup for added comfort.
- Topped with Herbs: Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to add a burst of flavor and color.
Cooking Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saver and adds flavor and tenderness to the soup.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more water or chicken broth. If you like it thicker, reduce the amount of broth or add more cream cheese.
- Make It Spicy: If you prefer a spicier version, add some crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the soup.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Ranch Soup: Add a packet of spicy ranch seasoning or hot sauce for a spicy kick to the soup.
- With Veggies: Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the soup to boost the nutritional value and add more flavor.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Ranch Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, and cheesy goodness makes this soup a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for the weekend, this soup is sure to satisfy.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before serving. -
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave. -
Can I use other noodles instead of egg noodles?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta, such as elbow macaroni or penne, instead of egg noodles. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. -
Can I make this soup without cream cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cream cheese and use more heavy cream or add a bit of sour cream for creaminess. -
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. -
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with a plant-based protein or extra vegetables for a vegetarian version of this soup. -
Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, you can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the soup for extra heat. -
Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of ranch seasoning?
Yes, you can use ranch dressing, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in the soup since ranch dressing is more liquid than the seasoning mix. -
Can I add more cheese to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add more shredded cheese to make the soup even cheesier or use a different type of cheese, like mozzarella or parmesan, for a different flavor. -
What should I serve with this soup?
Serve this soup with a side of fresh bread, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad to make a complete meal.
Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Ranch Soup!