Campbell Chicken Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes have the nostalgic appeal and widespread popularity of Campbell’s Chicken Soup. The warmth, the simplicity, and the rich flavors wrapped in a steaming bowl of this soup have been a staple in households for decades. Whether you’re sick and looking for a cure-all, or simply craving something soothing, this soup hits the spot.

But here’s the thing: while the store-bought version is great, there’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own chicken soup from scratch, giving you the ability to adjust the flavors, and tweak the ingredients exactly how you like. Plus, nothing beats the aroma that fills your kitchen as this comforting dish simmers on the stove.

In this guide, we’ll explore a delicious homemade Campbell Chicken Soup Recipe, break down the ingredients, provide expert cooking tips, and even offer variations to make it your own. Let’s dive in!

Campbell Chicken Soup Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of Campbell’s famous chicken soup but takes it up a notch with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the first spoonful, you’ll taste the homemade love in every bite.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb. chicken breast (boneless, skinless): The star of the show, providing tender meat and a rich base for the soup.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium for better control over the salt content.
• 2 medium carrots: Chopped into small pieces for texture and sweetness.
• 2 celery stalks: Diced finely, adding that classic crunch.
• 1 medium onion: Diced, for a savory base flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced, bringing aromatic depth.
• 1 cup egg noodles: A classic soup addition that makes it hearty.
• 1 bay leaf: For subtle, herbal notes.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can recreate this classic, homemade chicken soup:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by boiling the chicken breasts. In a large pot, bring about 4 cups of water to a boil, then add the chicken breasts. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery over medium heat. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Add the shredded chicken back in, along with the bay leaf. Bring it all to a simmer.
4. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom.
5. Season: Once the noodles are cooked and the soup has thickened slightly, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot!

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken Breast: Choosing boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures you get lean, tender meat without too much fat. It’s the healthiest option and the easiest to shred once cooked.
• Chicken Broth: While store-bought broth is convenient, homemade chicken broth made from simmered bones is ideal if you have the time. It’s richer and has more depth of flavor, but pre-made low-sodium broth is an excellent shortcut.
• Vegetables: Carrots and celery are quintessential soup veggies. Carrots bring a natural sweetness, while celery adds that signature crunch and earthy flavor. The onion and garlic are essential for a savory, aromatic base.
• Egg Noodles: Traditional egg noodles are the perfect choice for chicken soup because they absorb the broth, becoming tender yet holding their shape. You can experiment with other types of noodles, but egg noodles hold a special place in classic chicken soup recipes.
• Bay Leaf: This simple herb adds a complex, woodsy flavor to the broth. Be sure to remove it before serving, as it’s not meant to be eaten.

Expert Tips

• Skimming the Broth: If you’ve boiled your chicken in water first, you’ll likely notice some foam or impurities floating on top. Skim this off with a spoon for a clearer, cleaner soup.
• Shred the Chicken While It’s Warm: It’s much easier to shred chicken while it’s still warm, and it ensures the meat remains juicy and easy to pull apart. You can use two forks or your hands.
• Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more noodles or let the soup simmer longer to reduce the broth. If you want a lighter soup, add extra chicken broth.
• Add a Splash of Lemon: For a bit of brightness, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It cuts through the richness and enhances the soup’s flavors.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe is a classic, there’s plenty of room for customization! Here are a few variations you can try:

• Chicken & Rice Soup: Swap the egg noodles for cooked rice. This variation is a little heartier and just as comforting.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken entirely and use a combination of mushrooms and beans (like cannellini beans) to add texture and protein.
• Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a bit of heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also toss in some chopped jalapeños for a fiery kick.
• Creamy Chicken Soup: For a richer, creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk after the soup has finished cooking. This creates a velvety smooth texture.
• Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill to elevate the flavors of the broth and give it a slightly different herbal profile.

Final Words

Chicken soup is one of those magical dishes that brings a sense of home and warmth to any table. It’s soothing, simple, and the perfect comfort food for nearly any occasion. This Campbell Chicken Soup recipe allows you to create your own version, using fresh ingredients and enhancing flavors to your taste.

Whether you’re making it for yourself, a loved one, or someone who’s under the weather, the beauty of homemade chicken soup is that it’s so customizable and forgiving. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about the whole process-from the chopping to the simmering to that first taste of the delicious, steaming soup.