Campbell’s Chicken Soup Uk Recipe

If you’ve ever had a rough day or felt under the weather, there’s a good chance that Campbell’s Chicken Soup has been your comfort in a can. With its rich, savory broth, tender chicken chunks, and a healthy helping of vegetables, this soup is not just a meal-it’s an experience. In the UK, Campbell’s Chicken Soup has a special place in our hearts, offering that instant homely feeling even when you’re miles away from your mom’s kitchen.

But have you ever wondered how to make this classic comfort food from scratch? While you can always grab a can off the shelf, creating your own version can be surprisingly simple-and much more satisfying. Plus, it lets you control the quality of the ingredients, making it healthier and just the way you like it. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make your own Campbell’s Chicken Soup, UK-style, from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Campbell’s Chicken Soup Uk Recipe

Making a homemade version of Campbell’s Chicken Soup isn’t as complicated as it sounds. With just a few staple ingredients and some patience, you can whip up a deliciously comforting bowl of soup that’s every bit as flavorful as the canned version (if not better!). Here’s how you can do it:

Ingredients Needed

To make a truly authentic Campbell’s Chicken Soup, you’ll need these core ingredients:

1. Chicken Breast (or Thighs)

   • Why?: Chicken is the star of the show. Opt for chicken breast for leaner meat, or thighs for a richer, juicier flavor. Either way, it’s essential for the classic taste. You’ll cook this until it’s tender, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Carrots

   • Why?: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and color, balancing the savory chicken flavor. They should be finely chopped or grated for that signature soft texture that you find in canned soup.

3. Celery

   • Why?: Celery contributes a lovely crunch and a slightly peppery flavor. It also adds to the soup’s aromatic base and enhances the overall depth of the flavor.

4. Onion

   • Why?: Onion is the foundation for any hearty soup. It brings a natural sweetness once sautéed, making the broth even more flavorful.

5. Chicken Stock

   • Why?: To really get the right base, you need a quality chicken stock. You can go for store-bought or homemade. Homemade stock will always give a richer, deeper taste.

6. Bay Leaves

   • Why?: Bay leaves are subtle but essential for that herby undertone that you might recognize in Campbell’s Chicken Soup. They infuse the broth with a slight earthiness.

7. Cornflour (Cornstarch)

   • Why?: To get the signature thick and smooth texture that’s just right for Campbell’s Soup, cornflour is used as a thickening agent. It also helps the soup hold together well.

8. Salt And Pepper

   • Why?: You can’t forget the basics. Salt and pepper are the seasoning superheroes in this recipe, enhancing all the flavors.

9. Parsley (Optional)

   • Why?: For a touch of color and freshness, fresh parsley adds a lovely finish to the soup. It’s not mandatory, but it helps elevate the look and taste.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating this comforting bowl of goodness:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Start by cooking your chicken breast or thighs in a large pot. You can either poach it by simmering in water or broth, or sauté it in a bit of olive oil for more flavor. Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In the same pot, heat a bit of oil (or butter if you prefer a richer taste). Add in your diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.

3. Make The Broth

   • Pour in your chicken stock, add the bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes so the flavors can blend.

4. Thicken The Soup

   • In a small bowl, mix the cornflour with a little cold water to make a slurry. Slowly add this to the simmering broth while stirring constantly. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens up to the desired consistency.

5. Add The Chicken

   • Stir in your shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything heat through for a few minutes.

6. Final Touches

   • Remove the bay leaves. If you want, garnish with fresh parsley to add color and freshness.

7. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or crackers for the full experience.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken: The meat is essential for the flavor profile. The method of cooking-whether poached, roasted, or sautéed-can affect the richness of the soup. Poaching in broth gives a lighter, cleaner taste, while sautéing adds more depth.
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables act as aromatic vegetables. When sautéed, they release natural sugars that add to the overall sweetness of the soup without overpowering it.
• Cornflour: This is the secret to a creamy and smooth texture. It doesn’t change the flavor, but it makes the soup satisfying, giving it that signature velvety consistency you’re used to in the canned version.

Expert Tips

1. Homemade Chicken Stock: If you have the time, homemade chicken stock will take this recipe to the next level. It’s richer, more flavorful, and free of preservatives or artificial additives.
2. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep your vegetables on the firmer side-overcooking can result in mushy soup. You want them to add texture, not become part of the broth.
3. Season as You Go: Taste your soup at different stages of cooking, especially after adding the cornflour. This way, you can adjust seasoning levels and ensure the broth tastes just right.
4. Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully. Just allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

While the classic Campbell’s Chicken Soup is perfect as is, there are many ways you can tweak it to fit your taste preferences:

• Creamy Chicken Soup: Add a splash of double cream at the end of cooking to make the soup extra rich and creamy.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in some peas, potatoes, or leeks for extra flavor and nutrition. These additions can complement the existing veggies.
• Spicy Chicken Soup: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes. This will give your soup a nice, subtle heat without overwhelming the flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Instead of using regular cornflour, opt for a gluten-free version to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Herb Variation: Add thyme, rosemary, or a dash of garlic powder to enhance the flavor. You could even experiment with different fresh herbs for a unique twist.

Final Words

Campbell’s Chicken Soup, UK-style, is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to both your body and soul. Whether you’re sick, chilly, or just in need of something heartwarming, this soup is your go-to recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity-yet it’s the kind of simplicity that delivers so much flavor.