Campbell’s Soup Lemon Chicken Recipe

Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day? Soup has a magical way of warming us from the inside out, providing both nourishment and satisfaction in each spoonful. But when you add a zesty twist, like the tangy flavor of lemon paired with the tender richness of chicken, you get a dish that feels both cozy and refreshing. That’s where Campbell’s Soup Lemon Chicken recipe shines, offering a simple yet delicious meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor.

In this detailed guide, we’re going to dive into the recipe, exploring everything from the ingredients to the cooking method, ingredient insights, expert tips, and even ways you can tweak the recipe to make it your own. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just looking for a quick, hearty dish, this soup is bound to become a favorite. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Campbell’s Soup Lemon Chicken Recipe

Campbell’s Soup Lemon Chicken recipe is a deliciously vibrant dish, blending the rich, savory flavors of chicken with the tangy kick of lemon. This recipe uses Campbell’s Chicken with Rice Soup as a base, making it incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for those busy weeknights or moments when you need something that’s both comforting and a little different from your usual rotation.

Here’s the basic rundown of what this recipe includes:

• Lemon: Adds a zesty, bright flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken and creates a refreshing contrast.
• Chicken: You’ll be using tender, juicy chicken that adds both protein and heartiness to the soup.
• Campbell’s Soup base: The soup provides a creamy texture that binds all the flavors together while saving you time in the kitchen.

It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require a long list of complicated steps but delivers a punch of flavor that’s satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Lemon Chicken Soup:

• 1 can of Campbell’s Chicken with Rice Soup: This serves as the base of the soup, providing the creamy texture and chicken flavor.
• Chicken (2 boneless, skinless breasts): These will be cooked and diced to add that comforting chicken element.
• Lemon (1 large): Fresh lemon juice and zest are both used to give the soup that signature bright and tangy taste.

• Vegetables (optional)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 large carrot, diced
• Garlic (2 cloves): Adds depth to the flavor of the broth.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Enhances the savory notes of the soup and helps create the right consistency.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
• Fresh parsley or thyme: Garnish for added freshness and visual appeal.

Cooking Instructions

Now let’s break down how to bring this soup together. The steps are simple, and the process is relatively quick, making it perfect for a busy night.

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in the pot for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest for a few minutes, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sauté the vegetables (if using):

   • In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and become aromatic.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, until fragrant.

3. Combine The Soup

   • Pour in the can of Campbell’s Chicken with Rice Soup, followed by the chicken broth. Stir everything together.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add The Lemon

   • Grate the zest of one lemon and add it to the soup, stirring well.
   • Squeeze in the juice of the lemon, being careful to avoid any seeds. Taste as you go to make sure the soup is as tangy as you prefer.

5. Finish And Serve

   • Add the diced chicken back into the soup and stir to combine.
   • Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, and then garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra pop of color and flavor.
   • Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup is there to contribute not only to the flavor but to the overall health benefits and comfort of the dish.

• Campbell’s Chicken with Rice Soup: This soup base already has a lot of flavor packed into it. By using it as a shortcut, you’re saving time without sacrificing taste. It’s creamy, slightly savory, and perfectly seasoned to complement the fresh ingredients you’ll add.
• Lemon: Aside from the bright and zesty flavor it imparts, lemon is also full of vitamin C, which supports immune health. The citrus also helps balance out the richness of the chicken and the creaminess of the soup.
• Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps make this soup filling and nourishing. It’s also incredibly versatile, absorbing the flavors of the broth while adding its own comforting, savory taste.
• Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery not only add texture and color to the soup but also bring essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They help to create a well-rounded meal.

Expert Tips

• Maximize flavor with homemade broth: If you have time, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought to enhance the soup’s depth of flavor. You can make it in advance and freeze it for future use.
• Adjust lemon to your taste: Some people prefer a light lemon flavor, while others want it more pronounced. If you’re unsure, start with half the lemon juice and zest, taste, and then adjust.
• Add more greens: If you want to boost the nutritional value, consider tossing in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully and add a great pop of color.
• For extra creaminess: If you like a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking. This gives the soup a richer, velvety consistency.
• Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the flavors often improve after sitting overnight. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe is already pretty versatile, there are plenty of ways to switch it up:

• Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: Replace the rice with orzo pasta for a slightly different texture. The small pasta will soak up the flavors of the broth beautifully.
• Creamy Lemon Chicken Soup: For a creamier base, mix in a half cup of heavy cream or even sour cream. This will give the soup a richer, more indulgent feel.
• Lemon Chicken Soup with Herbs: Add some fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or dill to change the flavor profile. Each herb will bring a unique twist that complements the chicken and lemon.
• Vegetarian Lemon Soup: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors from the lemon and vegetables will still make this a delicious dish.

Final Words

When it comes to comfort food, this Campbell’s Soup Lemon Chicken recipe checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, and satisfying. The best part? It’s flexible. You can play around with ingredients and adjust flavors to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, you’re guaranteed a hearty, flavorful meal.