Canned chicken is a kitchen staple for its convenience and affordability. But did you know it's also a fantastic base for a quick and flavorful chicken soup? Forget lengthy simmering times and complex recipes; this guide will show you how to whip up a comforting bowl of chicken soup using canned chicken, perfect for a weeknight meal or when you need a quick and healthy pick-me-up.
Why Use Canned Chicken for Soup?
Many people overlook canned chicken, but it offers several advantages when making soup:
- Convenience: It's readily available, already cooked, and requires no prep time. This saves significant time and effort compared to using raw chicken.
- Affordability: Canned chicken is often cheaper than buying a whole chicken or even pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Versatility: It works wonderfully in soups, salads, sandwiches, and various other dishes.
- Long Shelf Life: Canned chicken has a long shelf life, making it a great pantry staple for quick meals.
What You'll Need for Your Canned Chicken Soup
This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
- 1 (15-ounce) can of chicken, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Noodles, rice, or dumplings (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How to Make Delicious Chicken Soup from Canned Chicken
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme and rosemary, and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Add Chicken: Add the drained canned chicken to the soup. Gently stir to combine.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Noodles/Rice/Dumplings (Optional): If desired, add your choice of noodles, rice, or dumplings at this stage. Follow the package directions for cooking time.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
How Long Does Canned Chicken Soup Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your canned chicken soup should last for 3-4 days.
Can I Freeze Canned Chicken Soup?
Yes! Freezing canned chicken soup is a great way to enjoy it later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It should keep for 2-3 months in the freezer.
What are Some Variations on Canned Chicken Soup?
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for variations:
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Chicken Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking.
- Lemon Chicken Soup: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or peas.
Is Canned Chicken Healthy?
Canned chicken is a good source of lean protein, but it's important to choose brands with low sodium content and be mindful of the sodium levels in your overall soup. Adding plenty of vegetables to your soup will boost its nutritional value.
Can I Use Different Types of Canned Chicken?
Yes! You can use various types of canned chicken, such as chicken breast, chicken in broth, or even shredded chicken. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the type of chicken you use.
This simple recipe provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a hearty bowl of chicken soup anytime. So grab your canned chicken and get cooking!
