This recipe for jazzed up canned cream of chicken soup is a warming and so tasty. By starting with a couple of cans of soup and jazzing it up a little you have a wonderful hearty soup that I call semi-homemade.

I personally don’t really like the taste of most of the canned soups however, I do like canned soups in baked recipes like this one.

I had two cans in the house and grabbed them along with some fresh and frozen veggies along with a package of minute rice.

Add any vegetables you and your family like, add them in along with the few ingredients below. You’ll come out with the most delicious soup.

If you see cream of chicken soup on sale at the store the next time you go, buy a few cans.

Hold on to this recipe and I think you’ll be happy the way this recipe turns out.

Cream of chicken soup is a beloved staple that evokes memories of comfort and warmth From casseroles to creamy sauces, this pantry item serves as a quick cooking base for endless dishes However, the convenience of opening a can comes at the cost of fresh, homemade flavor. Luckily, there are easy ways to enhance basic cream of chicken soup into something special.

This article will talk about 10 easy ways to make this classic dish taste better. With a few extra ingredients and creative touches, you can turn canned chicken soup into a gourmet experience. Read on for ideas on how to make this soup shine, from adding vegetables from your garden to infusing it with exotic spices.

Spice It Up

Adding spices and herbs to canned soup is one of the easiest ways to make it taste better. They add a wealth of flavor without much effort. Try seasoning your cream of chicken soup with:

Fresh or dried thyme – Provides an aromatic, woodsy note.
Rosemary – Infuses the soup with a pine-like fragrance.
Smoked paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness.
Garlic powder – Provides a punch of garlicky goodness.
Curry powder – Introduces a warm, exotic flair.

Try different combinations of spices until you find one that you really enjoy. Remember that you can add more but not take away.

Take a Trip to the Garden

Adding fresh vegetables to basic cream of chicken soup is another great way to make it better. This not only adds nutrition, but it also gives you tasty different tastes and textures. Try adding:

Diced zucchini – Contributes a pleasant, mild flavor.
Shredded carrots – For a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Chopped spinach – Packs a nutritious punch.
Sautéed mushrooms – Earthy and meaty.
Sweet peas or corn – For a touch of sweetness.

Get creative with the vegetables you have on hand to make this classic soup fresher and more exciting.

Go Whole Grain

Incorporating whole grains is a satisfying way to turn canned cream of chicken soup into a hearty, nutritious meal. Consider stirring in:

Cooked brown rice – Nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Farro or barley – Hearty and filling.
Quinoa – Light, fluffy, and protein-packed.
Oats or couscous – For extra body and comfort.

The possibilities are endless when you add wholesome whole grains to basic cream soup. Feel free to use up leftover cooked grains to give this pantry staple a delicious, good-for-you twist.

Pump Up the Protein

Adding protein transforms canned cream of chicken soup from a side into a hearty entrée. Mix in pre-cooked options like:

Diced rotisserie chicken – The easiest protein boost.
Crumbled bacon – For a delightful crunch and smoky accent.
Shredded pork or beef – Hearty and satisfying.
Lentils or chickpeas – Nutritious and meatless.
Tofu – For a plant-based punch of protein.

Protein can turn this humble soup into a meal that will keep you fueled. Get creative with your favorite sources to make it more substantial.

Take a Trip Around the World

Global flavors can quickly elevate basic cream of chicken soup. Consider stirring in:

Coconut milk – For tropical flair.
Miso paste – Adds savory, umami depth.
Curry paste – Infuses soup with exotic aroma.
Salsa – For a fun Mexican twist.
Pesto – An instant taste of Italy.

With a few simple additions, this comforting classic can take your palate on an international adventure. Don’t be afraid to draw inspiration from your favorite global cuisines.

Make It Creamier

For an ultra-rich and luxurious soup, enhance the creaminess. Try incorporating:

Heavy cream or half-and-half – The easiest way to add opulence.
Mascarpone or cream cheese – Velvety and indulgent.
Pureed cauliflower – Thickens soup in a healthy way.
Roux – A classic thickener made of butter and flour.
Potato flakes – Just a sprinkle makes soup silkier.

Ramp up the cream factor to take this soup from mundane to decadent. But go slowly and taste frequently so you don’t overdo it.

Grate Some Cheese

Melty, gooey cheese can instantly make canned cream of chicken soup more crave-worthy. Consider tossing in:

Shredded cheddar – A crowd-pleasing classic.
Crumbled goat cheese – Tangy and distinctive.
Grated Parmesan – Adds a nutty, salty punch.
Cubed cream cheese – For rich creaminess.

The right cheese provides a flavor and texture boost that takes this soup to the next level. And a little goes a long way, so use a light hand when grating or crumbling.

Toast Some Croutons

Crispy, crunchy croutons provide a delightful contrast to creamy chicken soup. Make your own by tossing bread cubes with:

Olive oil or butter – Provides richness.
Minced garlic – For extra flavor.
Italian seasoning – A savory blend.
Grated Parmesan – Take croutons up a notch.

Spread seasoned croutons on a baking sheet and toast until crispy and golden brown. Then float them on top of your soup for an irresistible finishing touch.

Top with Fresh Herbs

A final garnish of fresh herbs adds flair, aroma, and visual appeal to basic cream of chicken soup. Consider using:

Chopped parsley – A versatile brightener.
Minced chives – For bursts of oniony flavor.
Thinly sliced scallions – Elegant and aromatic.
Small basil leaves – Vibrant with sweetness.
Sprigs of thyme or tarragon – Sophisticated accents.

Let your herb garden guide you, and don’t be afraid to get creative with garnishes. A pop of fresh herbs takes this pantry staple to new heights.

Embellish with Extras

Fun embellishments add flair while highlighting cream of chicken soup’s creamy decadence. Consider garnishing with:

Buttery breadcrumbs or crackers – For crunch.
Crumbled bacon – Smoky and salty.
Shaved truffles – The ultimate luxury.
Drizzle of pesto – Herby and vivid.
Dollop of sour cream – Cool and tangy.
Splash of hot sauce – For those who like heat.

Gild this lily with any embellishments that suit your taste and style. Get creative with textures, colors, and flavors to take your soup presentation over the top.

Conclusion

With a few simple additions, canned cream of chicken soup can be transformed from basic to beautiful. Spices, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, global flavors, creaminess, cheese, croutons, herbs, and creative embellishments all lend their magic to elevate this pantry staple. Next time you open a can, don’t stop at just heating and serving. Try one of these enhancements to make it a soup to remember.

how do you make cream of chicken soup better

Enjoy the warm deliciousness..

2 cans of chilled chicken soup (I used Campbell’s 10 1/2 ounce)
1 1/2 of one can cold water
cup milk, I used 2 percent. Skim or 1 percent wouldn’t work for this recipe. You can skip the milk and use all water instead.
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup frozen corn
1 cup cooked instant rice
1/2 tsp each, onion and garlic powder
1/2 tsp ground black pepper or use white pepper
1/4 tsp poultry seasoning, optional
2 to 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, plus more for decoration if you want.

Put the canned soup in a medium-sized to large nonstick saucepan and set it over medium-low heat. Add 1 1/2 cans cold water. Use a whisk to break up the soup and mix it well. Add milk and continue to whisk. Bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and add the rice, vegetables, and spices. Place back on heat and bring back to a boil. Let the soup cook on low heat for a few minutes so that all the vegetables get hot. Sprinkle in parsley and serve up.

Here’s how to make jazzed up cream of chicken soup…

Put the canned soup in a medium-sized to large nonstick saucepan and set it over medium-low heat. Add 1 1/2 cans cold water. Use a whisk to break up the soup and mix it well. Add milk and continue to whisk.
Bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and add the rice, vegetables, and spices. Place back on heat and bring back to a boil. Let the soup cook on low heat for a few minutes so that all the vegetables get hot.
Sprinkle in parsley and serve up.

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FAQ

What can I add to canned chicken soup to make it better?

More Ways to Add Flavor Add more flavor to your chicken soup by adding dried parsley, onion powder, or garlic powder. I recommend adding 1⁄2 to 1 full teaspoon. Another great way to add more flavor is to add a splash of vinegar (any kind) or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

What spices to add to cream of chicken soup?

Add 1/2 cup of milk and the rest of the broth. Whisk in the salt, black pepper, parsley, allspice, paprika, and lemon pepper seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and allow to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.

What can I add to my chicken soup to make it tastier?

Sautéing aromatic vegetables, like onion, carrot, and celery then simmering them in the broth adds more flavor. Mar 11, 2025.

How to deepen the flavor of chicken soup?

A half hour before the soup is done, try adding some chopped chicken that has been nicely seared. This will really make the chicken taste better in every bite. If you want to use a whole chicken to make the soup, take out the breast and thigh meat before making the broth and add them near the end.

Elevate Your Cream of Chicken Soup: 10 Simple Ways to Take This Classic to the Next Level