Introduction to Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food. Its rich broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles make it a favorite for families and busy weeknights. This recipe shows you how to make a warm, flavorful soup using Swanson chicken stock with easy steps and helpful tips. Whether you want a quick meal or a soothing homemade dish, this guide has you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup, you don’t need fancy ingredients. The key is using fresh components and quality Swanson chicken stock for that classic flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients:
- Swanson Chicken Broth: 4 cups (or as directed for a richer flavor, use 6 cups)
- Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- Egg Noodles: 1–2 cups, depending on preference
- Carrots: 2 medium, sliced or diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Butter or Olive Oil: 1–2 tablespoons for sautéing
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Fresh parsley or thyme for extra flavor
- A pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil
- Lemon juice for a light, tangy touch
Tips for Choosing Ingredients:
Use fresh vegetables for better texture and flavor. Egg noodles are best cooked in the soup, but you can also cook them separately to prevent sogginess. Swanson chicken broth is key—it gives a rich, savory base that enhances the soup naturally.
Equipment and Preparation
Making Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup is simple if you have the right tools and prep steps ready.
Essential Kitchen Tools:
- Large Soup Pot: A 4–6 quart pot works best for even cooking.
- Ladle: For serving and stirring.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate seasoning.
- Colander (optional): For draining noodles if cooked separately.
Preparation Steps:
- Vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic.
- Chicken: If using raw chicken, cut into cubes or shred cooked chicken for later addition.
- Noodles: Measure your egg noodles. Decide if you want to cook them directly in the soup or separately to prevent overcooking.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Measure fresh or dried herbs and set aside for easy addition during cooking.
Tip: Doing all prep before you start cooking saves time and ensures smooth, stress-free soup preparation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make a rich, flavorful Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 1–2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until onions are translucent and vegetables are slightly softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
Pour in 4 cups of Swanson chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add shredded or diced cooked chicken. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Add egg noodles directly to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, usually 7–10 minutes, until tender.
- Tip: To prevent mushy noodles, cook them separately and add just before serving if desired.
Step 4: Season and Add Herbs
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh parsley or thyme for extra flavor. Optionally, add a pinch of dried herbs for a more robust taste.
Step 5: Simmer and Serve
Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes to ensure all flavors combine. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
- Pro Tip: For deeper flavor, simmer the soup on low heat for 20–30 minutes after adding the chicken.
Tips for Perfect Soup
Making Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup is simple, but a few key tips can take it to the next level:
Balance the Seasoning
Always taste as you go. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, then adjust at the end.
Prevent Soggy Noodles
Cook noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers. Add noodles to the soup just before serving to maintain their texture.
Enhance Flavor Naturally
Use fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill. A splash of lemon juice brightens the soup without overpowering it.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
If using raw chicken, cook just until done. Overcooking can make it dry. Shredded cooked chicken added near the end keeps it tender.
Layer Flavors
Sautéing vegetables before adding broth enhances the soup’s depth. Simmering for at least 10–15 minutes allows flavors to meld perfectly.
Adjust to Your Preference
Add extra vegetables like peas or corn for a heartier soup. Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over salt levels.
- Pro Tip: A little patience goes a long way. Let the soup simmer gently; the longer the flavors develop, the richer the taste.
Variations and Enhancements
Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup is delicious on its own, but you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
Extra Vegetables
Add diced potatoes, peas, corn, or green beans for a heartier soup. Leafy greens like spinach or kale can be added at the end for a nutritional boost.
Noodle Alternatives
Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat, rice noodles, or gluten-free pasta. For a lower-carb option, use zucchini noodles or spiralized vegetables.
Protein Upgrades
Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep. For extra flavor, brown the chicken before adding it to the soup.
Flavor Boosters
A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add depth and warmth. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill enhance the aroma and taste.
Low-Sodium or Light Version
Use low-sodium Swanson chicken broth to control salt levels. Skip butter or use olive oil for a lighter, heart-healthy version.
Creative Twists
Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a savory punch. Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for a thicker, more filling soup.
- Pro Tip: Start with small amounts of any add-ins and adjust to taste. This way, you can experiment without overpowering the classic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup is comforting on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make a complete meal.
Serve Hot and Fresh
Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s steaming. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra appeal.
Pair with Bread
Serve with warm crusty bread, dinner rolls, or garlic bread for dipping. Toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch alongside the soft noodles.
Complement with a Side Salad
A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Fresh veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, or carrots add color and nutrients.
Add a Touch of Comfort
Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence. Serve alongside a small bowl of rice or crackers for a heartier meal.
Family-Friendly Tips
Serve in smaller portions for kids and keep extra noodles separate to avoid sogginess. Offer toppings like chopped herbs or croutons so everyone can customize.
- Pro Tip: Keep the soup hot until serving to preserve flavor and texture. Reheating gently on low heat maintains its rich, comforting taste.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage ensures your Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup stays fresh and flavorful for later meals.
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months.
Tips for Freezing
Freeze the soup without noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy. Store noodles separately and add them when reheating. Label containers with the date for easy rotation.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Add noodles, fresh herbs, or extra broth as needed to refresh the soup.
Maintaining Flavor
Taste and adjust seasoning after reheating, as flavors may mellow in storage. A small squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavor before serving.
- Pro Tip: Avoid using the microwave for long reheating times, as it can overcook noodles and dry out the chicken. Stovetop reheating preserves texture and taste.
Conclusion
Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless, comforting recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With simple ingredients, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken, you can create a warm, nourishing meal for any occasion. By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a soup that’s customizable, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it fresh, share it with loved ones, and feel free to experiment with herbs, vegetables, and noodles to make it your own signature dish.
FAQS
Swanson Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Heat broth, pepper, carrot and celery in 2 quart saucepan over medium-high heat to a boil.
- Stir in noodles and chicken. Reduce heat to medium. Cook for 10 minutes or until noodles are tender.