When it comes to busy nights, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken soup to hit the spot. And when you’re short on time but still want to deliver a satisfying meal to your family, canned chicken soup can be a lifesaver. In this collection of 18 hearty and delicious recipes, we’ll show you how to take this humble pantry staple and turn it into a culinary masterpiece.
From creamy and comforting to spicy and bold, these recipes use canned chicken soup as the foundation for a variety of tasty dishes. Whether you’re looking for a classic chicken noodle soup or something more adventurous, like Thai-inspired coconut chicken soup, we’ve got you covered.
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of chicken, wild rice, and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the wild rice blend and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup combines spicy chicken, crunchy tortillas, and creamy vegetables to create a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Add tortilla quarters and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until softened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and add the cooked noodles.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken to the pot; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, flour, chicken broth, and milk to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional broccoli florets if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Inspired Coconut Chicken Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup combines the rich flavors of Thailand with the comforting warmth of coconut milk, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
A comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Chicken and Corn Chowder recipe is a twist on the classic chowder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the frozen corn kernels, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional soup, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, orzo pasta, chicken broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Chicken Lime Soup
Brighten up your day with this zesty and refreshing soup that combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a warm bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Curried Chicken and Vegetable Soup
A flavorful and nutritious soup that combines the warmth of curry powder with the comfort of chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the carrots, celery, and bell pepper until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and browned chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Pour in broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, combine flour and eggs in a bowl to form dumpling mixture. Drop by spoonfuls into the soup and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Rice Soup with Herbs
This classic soup recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously soothing bowl.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 2 cups uncooked white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the rice, broth, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir into the soup.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, basil, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add a creamy touch.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Potato Chowder
This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and savory vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting twist on traditional pasta soup, featuring tender chicken, spinach, and cheese-filled tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package (9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Add tortellini and spinach. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pasta is tender and spinach is wilted.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, savory garlic, and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Barley Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the tender flavor of chicken, the nutty goodness of barley, and a hint of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken and vegetables in a little bit of oil until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the barley, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Zesty Chicken and Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tender black beans, and a hint of spice for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and easy meals on busy nights? Look no further! This collection of 18 hearty canned chicken soup recipes has got you covered. From creamy wild rice soups to spicy tortilla soups, and from classic chicken noodle soups to cheesy broccoli soups, there’s something for everyone. These comforting and delicious recipes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With ingredients like canned chicken, vegetables, and noodles, these soups are easy to make and packed with flavor. Try one tonight!
