Creamy Bacon and Ranch Chicken Noodle Soup can be a delicious and comforting meal. While it may not be the healthiest option due to the bacon and cream, it still provides some nutritional benefits. Here are a few:
1. Protein: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for repairing and building tissues in the body. Protein is also important for maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting overall health.
2. Vitamins and Minerals: The soup may contain various vegetables and herbs like carrots, celery, onions, and garlic, which provide vitamins (such as vitamin A and vitamin C) and minerals (such as potassium and magnesium). These nutrients are important for proper bodily functions, including immune support, bone health, and cell repair.
3. Energy: The combination of chicken, noodles, and cream in the soup provides carbohydrates that can be a source of energy for the body. Carbohydrates are essential for fueling our daily activities and maintaining optimal brain function.
4. Comfort and Satisfaction: While not directly related to nutritional benefits, a warm and comforting bowl of soup can provide psychological comfort and satisfaction. It can be a mood booster and help reduce stress levels.
However, it’s important to note that the bacon and cream in this soup add significant amounts of saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, which should be consumed in moderation. If you’re looking to make this dish healthier, you can consider using turkey bacon or reducing the amount of bacon and cream used. Adding more vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, can also increase the nutritional value of the soup.
Overall, while Creamy Bacon and Ranch Chicken Noodle Soup may not be the healthiest option, it can still provide some nutritional benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Moderation and incorporating healthier ingredients can help make it a more nutritious choice.
Creamy Bacon and Ranch Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
3 cups cooked, shredded or chopped chicken breast (you can also use rotisserie chicken)
1 10.5 oz. can condensed chicken soup
6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 1 oz. packet Ranch dressing mix
12 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
8 oz. Thin Spaghetti or Angel Hair – uncooked
Directions:
Cook the bacon, drain, cut, and crumble – set aside.
Combine the chicken, condensed soup, chicken stock, milk, cream cheese, carrots, celery, ranch dressing mix, and crumbled bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
Turn down the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 – 25 minutes.
Add the noodles and cheese and simmer until the noodles are fully cooked.
Top with extra crumbled bacon if desired.
Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Here are some tips for making Creamy Bacon and Ranch Chicken Noodle Soup:
1. Use quality ingredients: Choose fresh chicken, preferably boneless and skinless, for the soup. Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible. Use fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavors.
2. Cook the bacon separately: Instead of cooking the bacon directly in the soup, cook it separately until crispy. This way, you can control the amount of fat and can sprinkle it on top of the soup when serving for added texture and flavor.
3. Reduce the amount of cream: While cream adds richness to the soup, it can also be high in calories and fat. Consider using a lighter option such as half-and-half, or use a combination of milk and a small amount of cream to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Add more vegetables: Boost the nutritional value of the soup by adding extra vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, peas, or mushrooms. These additions will not only add nutrients but also enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
5. Opt for whole wheat noodles: Instead of using regular white noodles, choose whole wheat or whole grain noodles. They are higher in fiber and provide more nutrients compared to their refined counterparts.
6. Use low-sodium broth: Look for low-sodium chicken broth or make your own to control the salt content of the soup. This will help reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
7. Season wisely: The ranch seasoning mix typically contains salt, so be mindful of the amount of additional salt you add to the soup. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill over the soup to add a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
Remember to enjoy this soup in moderation as an indulgent treat rather than a regular meal, as it can be high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal.