Chіcken with crеam of chіcken soup is kinda a fav dish for many people . It shows how you can use canned soups to whip up a meal quick , and still get a creamy flavor . It works for a busy weeknight or even a cozy fam dinner , and you can mix it up in diffeгent recipes . The soup gives a rich savor that makes even plain chicken taste fancy .
This write-up will dive into what crеam of chіcken soup really is , where it came from , and what’s in it nutritionally . We’ll also talk about why home cooks reach for it so often , share some popular chicken recipes that need this soup , and give you a step-by-step guide to make your own version . Plus there’ll be pairing ideas , common questions answered , and tips to avoid slip-ups when you cook with it .
What is Cream of Chicken Soup?
Crеam of chіcken soup is a smooth mix of chicken broth , cream or milk , and some spices . Lots of versions toss in bits of veg like carrots or celery and herbs such as parsley . Because it’s velvety , home cooks like to add it to pastas , casseroles , sauces , and stews to make them heartier .
A. Definition and Description
The basic stuff in crеam of chіcken soup is chicken stock , heavy cream (or milk), salt , pepper , and garlic powder . Some brands even put in shredded chicken or extra veggies . You find it in cans at the store , so you don’t have to start from scratch when you’re in a hurry .
B. History
Crеam soups go way back to old Europe , with cooks in France adding cream to soups in the 1800s . Crеam of chіcken probably popped up as a quick way to get that chicken taste without hours of simmering . By mid-1900s in America it became super common because convenience foods were all the rage .
C. Nutritional Information
One half-cup of canned crеam of chіcken soup has about 100 calories , 6 g of fat , and 2–3 g of protein . But watch out for salt , because many brands load it up with sodium . If you need less salt , look for low-sodium or make your own at home .
Why Use Cream of Chicken Soup in Cooking?
Crеam of chіcken soup is a kitchen hack that does a lot of heavy lifting . Here’s why it’s a win:
A. Flavor Enhancer
It brings a smooth , rich taste that makes simple dishes feel comfort-food worthy . Add it to casseroles or sauces , and the chicken flavor and creaminess just blend perfectly .
B. Convenience
When you’re rushing after school or work , this soup is ready to go . Dump it in a dish , mix , bake or simmer , and dinner’s done in no time .
C. Versatile Base
You can use it for so many things—pot pies , pasta bakes , or even as a gravy starter . It goes with veg , grains , and tons of spices without clashing .
Popular Chicken Dishes with Cream of Chicken Soup
Here are some easy recipes where crеam of chіcken soup steals the show:
A. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Mix cooked rice , chicken pieces , and soup , then bake until it’s bubbly and golden . Simple herbs like thyme or parsley can add some fresh kick .
B. Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Skillet
Sauté chicken and mushrooms , stir in the soup , then serve over noodles or rice . Quick , homey , and always a hit .
C. Chicken Enchiladas
Add soup to your enchilada filling or sauce for a creamy twist on the Mexican classic .
D. Chicken Divan
Layer chicken and broccoli in a casserole dish , pour over soup mixed with cheese , top with more cheese , and bake until bubbly . Feels fancy but is super easy .
Detailed Recipe for Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
A. Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) crеam of chіcken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (opt.)
B. Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Whisk soup , milk , garlic and onion powders till smooth .
3. Put chicken in a baking dish , season with salt and pepper , then pour the soup mix over it .
4. Cover with foil and bake 25–30 mins or until chicken hits 165°F (75°C) inside .
5. Take off foil , sprinkle cheese on top , bake 5–10 more mins till cheese melts .
6. Serve over rice or pasta if you like and dig in .
C. Cooking Tips
Try adding broccoli , peas , or bell peppers in the dish before you pour on the soup . For a kick , stir in some paprika or cayenne . Fresh chicken breasts taste better than frozen ones if you can swing it .
D. Cooking Times and Servings
Makes about 4 servings . Ovens vary , so use a meat thermometer to be safe .
Pairing Suggestions
A. Side Dishes
- White rice or brown rice
- Steamed green beans or carrots
- Mixed salad with a light vinaigrette
B. Wine and Beverage Pairings
- Sauvignon Blanc goes nicely with the creamy taste .
- Light red wine like Pinot Noir is also a good match .
- For no booze , try iced herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon .
FAQs about Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup
A. Can I substitute cream of chicken soup in recipes?
Sure , you can swap in cream of mushroom or make a homemade version . Just note the flavor might shift a bit .
B. Is chicken with cream of chicken soup healthy?
It depends on what you use . Go low-sodium and reduced-fat versions to trim the calories and salt .
C. How can I make cream of chicken soup from scratch?
Sauté onions and garlic , add cooked chicken , broth and cream , then stir till thick . Season to taste and skip the cans .
D. What other proteins can be used with cream of chicken soup?
You can try turkey , pork , or even tofu . Just tweak the cook time to suit the protein .
Tips for Cooking with Cream of Chicken Soup
A. Storage and Leftovers
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat gently and add a splash of milk or water so it stays creamy .
B. Freezing Tips
You can freeze dishes with this soup for about 2 months . To keep it smooth , add extra liquid when you reheat .
C. Avoiding Common Mistakes
Heat the soup slowly so it doesn’t curdle , and stir often . Don’t overcook the chicken ; use a thermometer so it stays juicy .
Conclusion
Chicken with crеam of chіcken soup proves that simple ingredients can go a long way when you want a quick , hearty meal . Whether you stick to a classic or add your own spin , this creamy soup base will step up your home cooking game .
chicken with cream of chicken soup
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or frying pan
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds total.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz can.
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables Peas, carrots, corn.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley Optional.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb some of the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
