Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup. Just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, warm embraces, and the comforting taste of childhood. While the canned version holds a special place in many hearts, nothing beats the deliciousness and satisfaction of making your own homemade version. This recipe takes inspiration from the classic Campbell's flavor profile, offering a delicious and easy-to-follow guide to crafting your perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup. We'll even address some common questions people have about this beloved dish!
What are the ingredients in Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup?
The magic of Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup lies in its simplicity. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, we can approximate the key ingredients based on the taste and common soup recipes. You'll need a good quality chicken broth (homemade is best!), tender chicken, egg noodles, carrots, celery, and onions. Seasoning is key—think a blend of salt, pepper, and perhaps a touch of bay leaf for depth. This recipe provides a flexible base; you can easily adjust the vegetables to your preference.
How to make Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup from scratch?
This recipe focuses on capturing the essence of the Campbell’s classic while allowing for customization. Feel free to add your own favorite herbs and spices!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade is preferred!)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, add salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using). Bring to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add noodles and chicken: Stir in the egg noodles and shredded chicken. Continue to simmer until the noodles are cooked through, about 8-10 minutes more.
- Remove bay leaf (if used): Before serving, remove the bay leaf if you added one.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
What is the best way to make chicken noodle soup from scratch?
The "best" way is subjective and depends on your preferences, but focusing on quality ingredients makes a world of difference. Using homemade chicken broth adds a depth of flavor unmatched by store-bought varieties. Rotisserie chicken provides an incredibly convenient shortcut for perfectly cooked, shredded chicken. Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables—leeks, parsnips, or even spinach can add delicious variations.
What are the benefits of homemade chicken noodle soup?
Beyond the superior taste, homemade chicken noodle soup offers several advantages. You control the ingredients, ensuring less sodium and fewer preservatives than canned soup. You can adjust the seasoning and ingredients to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Plus, there's a certain satisfaction in creating something delicious from scratch!
How long does chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade chicken noodle soup will generally last for 3-4 days.
Can you freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes! Freezing chicken noodle soup is a fantastic way to preserve leftovers. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
What are some variations on chicken noodle soup?
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Consider these variations:
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving.
- Chicken Noodle Soup with Dumplings: Add homemade or store-bought dumplings during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
This homemade Campbell's-inspired chicken noodle soup recipe provides a delicious and comforting meal, easily customized to your preferences. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of creating this classic comfort food from scratch!
