Elevate Your Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup Game With These Easy Add-Ins

Campbell’s chicken noodle soup holds a special place in many people’s hearts. This comforting classic has been a staple pantry item for generations ready to be heated up for a quick meal or when you’re feeling under the weather.

While the original recipe is certainly delicious it can get a bit boring eating the plain soup over and over. Luckily there are countless ways to transform basic Campbell’s chicken noodle into a more exciting and flavorful dish. With a few simple ingredients added, you can take this nostalgic soup from bland to grand.

Give It a Flavor Boost

One of the easiest ways to improve canned Campbell’s chicken noodle is to stir in spices and fresh herbs. Dried spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, cumin, and pepper can all help liven up the flavor. For extra freshness, chop up some parsley, cilantro, basil, oregano, rosemary, or thyme and mix it in. The fresh herbs will add vibrancy.

You can also squeeze some lemon or lime juice into the soup. The bright acidity helps balance out the rich saltiness. Ginger is another great option – fresh grated or ground ginger can infuse a bit of warmth and kick.

Don’t be afraid to add heat either. Adding cayenne, red pepper flakes, or sriracha to your soup can make it spicier. Just add it little by little and taste as you go until you get the level of spice you want.

Pack in More Produce

While Campbell’s chicken noodle soup contains a few token vegetables like carrots and celery, you can bulk up the nutrition by tossing in more fresh produce.

Spinach, kale, broccoli, snap peas, lima beans, corn, zucchini, and bell pepper are all vegetables that cook quickly. Freeze or sauté the vegetables before adding them to the soup pot. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables.

If you want heartier pieces, try dicing and simmering potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, butternut squash, or green beans. The starchy vegetables will break down and thicken the broth.

Onion, mushrooms, and garlic are great aromatic bases. Sauté them before adding to the soup for deeper flavor. You can also throw in a bay leaf while simmering.

Make it Hearty and Filling

Sometimes Campbell’s chicken noodles straight from the can don’t seem to have much going on. With a few simple changes, it’s easy to make it a hearty, filling meal.

Shredded chicken is the natural choice – rotisserie chicken works well. You can also quickly sauté or poach chicken breast. Adding more protein makes the soup much more satisfying.

Instead of the noodles, try swapping in rice, quinoa, barley, or pasta shells. The starch will help absorb the broth for a comforting consistency.

Topping your bowl with avocado, shredded cheese, or croutons adds texture. You can also make it creamy with a swirl of Greek yogurt.

For ultimate coziness, include biscuit dough dumplings or matzo balls. Dropping spoonfuls of dough into the simmering soup creates a decadent twist.

Infuse Flavors from Around the World

Campbell’s chicken noodle is an American classic, but you can draw inspiration from global cuisines to give it an exciting new personality.

Mexican – Add corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and chili powder. Top with tortilla chips, avocado, and queso fresco.

Italian – Mix in chopped spinach, white beans, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Accompany with garlic bread.

Indian – Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin. Garnish with cilantro.

Thai – Add rice noodles, ginger, coconut milk, lemongrass, lime, and red curry paste for heat.

Japanese – Swap the noodles for udon and add mushrooms, scallions, miso, and seaweed.

Moroccan – Include chickpeas, raisins, warm spices like cinnamon, cumin, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle with parsley.

Get Creative with Mix-Ins

Half the fun is experimenting with unique add-ins to give your Campbell’s chicken noodle soup a creative spin. Don’t be afraid to get adventurous!

• Use broth alternatives like vegetable, mushroom, or miso broth for a new depth of flavor

• Make it creamy with pureed beans, mashed potatoes, or cashew cream

• Add texture with barley, farro, shredded Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower rice

• Mix in coconut aminos or fish sauce for a savory umami boost

• Top with fried onions, seeded breadcrumbs, or oyster crackers for crunch

• Swirl in pesto or chimichurri sauce for a vibrant herbal taste

• Garnish with sautéed mushrooms, roasted squash, or charred peppers

• Infuse warmth with roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or smoked paprika

• Brighten it up with a squeeze of citrus juice, grated zest, chopped pineapple, or apple slices

The possibilities are endless when it comes to souping up basic Campbell’s chicken noodle. With a dash of creativity and a willingness to experiment, you can transform this nostalgic staple into a different hearty, nutritious soup anytime. Keep an assortment of fresh ingredients on hand so you can customize each bowl to match your cravings or what you have in your fridge.