Eating Campbell’s cream of chicken soup by itself is certainly possible, but it may not be the most satisfying meal on its own. There are, however, some easy ways to turn a can of cream of chicken soup into a more complete and nutritious dish.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can eat Campbell’s cream of chicken soup by itself right out of the can, but it won’t be a very balanced meal. Cream soups are dense in calories and fat without much nutritional value. Adding vegetables, protein foods like chicken or beans, and whole grains like pasta or rice can turn cream of chicken soup into more of a well-rounded meal.
Nutritional Content of Cream of Chicken Soup
Here is the basic nutritional information for 1 cup of Campbell’s condensed cream of chicken soup (prepared with water as directed):
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 190 | 8g | 16g | 7g |
As you can see, cream soups are high in calories and fat compared to vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. There are no vegetables, whole grains, or fiber in condensed canned cream soups.
Benefits of Adding Nutrients to Cream Soups
To make a can of cream of chicken soup into a more balanced meal, consider adding:
- Vegetables – Onions, carrots, peas, green beans, potatoes etc. add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Whole grains – Rice, pasta, or bread give you energizing carbohydrates and fiber.
- Beans or other protein – Chicken, beans, tofu etc. supply protein and nutrients.
- Low-fat milk or yogurt – Dairy provides protein, calcium, and vitamin D.
Combining cream soup with vegetables, whole grains, protein foods, and dairy ensures you get all the different nutrients you need in one meal. This follows basic healthy meal construction guidelines.
Simple Ways to Make a Meal with Cream Soup
Here are some easy recipe ideas that transform cream of chicken soup into more balanced meals:
Add to Vegetables
- Make a creamy veggie bake with broccoli, cauliflower, snap peas, and carrots. Top with breadcrumbs or cheese.
- Simmer green beans, onions, and diced potatoes with chicken soup as a veggie soup.
- Saute spinach, tomato, and onion, then stir in cream soup for an easy creamed veggie side.
Serve Over Whole Grains
- Ladle chicken cream soup over cooked rice or pasta for an easy casserole.
- Make chicken and rice by simmering soup with rice and chicken pieces or shreds.
- Use as a sauce for chicken and egg noodles or pasta shells. Sprinkle with parsley.
Include Lean Protein
- Add diced cooked chicken, turkey, or ham to turn soup into a main dish.
- Mix in white beans or chickpeas for vegetarian protein.
- Use soup as a sauce for sautéed tofu or tempeh.
- Stir in Greek yogurt or milk for a protein boost.
Simple Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
Here is an easy starter recipe to make a more balanced meal using a can of cream of chicken soup:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, and frozen peas. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve the creamed chicken mixture over the cooked rice.
This simple recipe transforms a can of cream soup into a hearty chicken meal containing vegetables, whole grains, and protein. The same method can be used to mix and match other ingredients you have on hand.
Cream Soup Storage and Food Safety Tips
When handling and storing cream soups:
- Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or high heat.
- Once opened, transfer soup to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- When reheating soup, heat to 165°F until steaming hot.
- Do not thaw frozen soups at room temperature. Thaw in the refrigerator or microwave.
- Discard cream soup if mold appears or if it smells or tastes bad.
Following basic food safety practices helps prevent foodborne illness when using cream soups.
Conclusion
While it is possible to eat Campbell’s cream of chicken soup by itself directly out of the can, it does not make for a very nutritious meal on its own. Combining the condensed soup with vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy is an easy way to transform it into a more balanced meal. Follow basic food safety practices when handling and reheating cream soups. With a few easy additions and preparation tips, cream soups can become a hearty and healthy comfort food.