Recipe Variations: Campbell’s Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipes With Chicken And Pasta
Source: googleusercontent.com
Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup recipes with chicken and pasta – Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup provides a fantastic base for quick and easy chicken and pasta dinners. The versatility of this soup allows for numerous variations, depending on your preferred pasta shape and chicken preparation method. This section explores several options to inspire your next meal.
Pasta Type Variations
The choice of pasta significantly impacts the texture and overall eating experience of your dish. Different pasta shapes hold sauces differently, leading to varied culinary outcomes. The following table showcases three variations using different pasta types.
| Pasta Type | Chicken Preparation | Additional Ingredients | Cooking Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penne | Diced, pan-fried with garlic and herbs | Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan cheese | Cook penne according to package directions. Sauté diced chicken with garlic and herbs. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, Cream of Mushroom soup, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. Simmer until heated through. Top with Parmesan cheese. |
| Rotini | Shredded, cooked with the pasta | Frozen peas, carrots, and corn | Cook rotini and shredded chicken together until the pasta is al dente and the chicken is cooked through. Stir in Cream of Mushroom soup, frozen vegetables. Simmer until vegetables are tender. |
| Fettuccine | Grilled chicken breast, sliced | Mushrooms, cream cheese, white wine | Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Grill chicken breast until cooked through, then slice. Sauté sliced mushrooms. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, Cream of Mushroom soup, sautéed mushrooms, cream cheese, and white wine. Simmer until sauce thickens. |
Chicken Preparation Methods
The way you prepare your chicken directly affects the flavor profile and texture of the final dish. Here are three distinct methods to experiment with:
These recipes offer diverse flavor profiles and textures, showcasing the adaptability of this classic dish.
- Shredded Chicken:
- Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 can Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape).
- Steps: Cook chicken breasts until fully cooked. Shred chicken. Heat olive oil in a pan. Add shredded chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
Stir in Cream of Mushroom soup and pasta. Simmer until heated through.
- Diced Chicken:
- Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape).
- Steps: Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add diced chicken and cook until browned. Stir in Cream of Mushroom soup and pasta. Simmer until heated through.
- Grilled Chicken:
- Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 can Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Steps: Grill chicken breasts until cooked through. Slice chicken. Heat olive oil in a pan. Add sliced chicken. Stir in Cream of Mushroom soup and pasta.
Simmer until heated through. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Leftover Roasted Chicken Recipe
Using leftover roasted chicken is a fantastic way to create a quick and flavorful meal. This recipe minimizes cooking time while maximizing flavor.
This recipe leverages the existing flavor of the roasted chicken, requiring minimal additional cooking.
- Ingredients: 2 cups shredded leftover roasted chicken, 1 can Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape), 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinner consistency), 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.
- Steps: Combine shredded chicken, Cream of Mushroom soup, cooked pasta, and chicken broth (if using) in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Flavor Enhancements and Additions
Elevating Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup with chicken and pasta involves more than just the base ingredients. A few strategic additions can transform this classic comfort food into a truly memorable dish, brimming with complex and satisfying flavors. Careful consideration of herbs, spices, and the type of cream used significantly impacts the final product. Adding cheeses introduces another layer of depth and richness.
The following suggestions offer various ways to enhance the flavor profile of your Cream of Mushroom soup, moving beyond the standard recipe to create a personalized culinary experience.
Herb and Spice Enhancements
Adding herbs and spices provides a simple yet effective way to boost the flavor complexity of the soup. The creamy mushroom base pairs well with a wide array of aromatic additions, allowing for considerable customization to suit individual preferences.
- Thyme and Rosemary: These earthy herbs complement the mushroom flavor beautifully, adding a touch of rustic charm. A sprig of each, added during the simmering process, will infuse the soup with subtle yet distinct notes.
- Sage and Tarragon: Sage lends a slightly peppery and savory note, while tarragon offers a unique anise-like sweetness that balances the richness of the cream. These work particularly well when added towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: For a deeper savory base, consider adding a teaspoon or two of garlic and onion powder. These enhance the umami notes and complement the mushrooms.
- Black Pepper and White Pepper: A pinch of freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of spice, while white pepper offers a milder, more subtle heat. Experiment to find your preferred level of pepperiness.
- Nutmeg: A dash of freshly grated nutmeg adds a warm, slightly sweet spice note that complements the creaminess of the soup, especially when combined with poultry.
Cream Type Impact, Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup recipes with chicken and pasta
The choice of cream significantly impacts the texture and richness of the soup. Heavy cream and half-and-half offer distinct characteristics.
Heavy cream, with its higher fat content, creates a luxuriously thick and rich soup. The flavor is intensely creamy and decadent. Half-and-half, on the other hand, produces a lighter, less intensely rich soup, with a thinner consistency. The choice depends on personal preference; heavy cream is ideal for a richer, more indulgent experience, while half-and-half provides a lighter alternative.
Cheese Infusion
Incorporating different cheeses adds another layer of flavor and texture to the soup. The timing of cheese addition is crucial for optimal melting and taste.
This recipe demonstrates the use of various cheeses for a flavorful and texturally interesting soup.
Creamy Three-Cheese Mushroom Chicken Pasta Soup
Ingredients: Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup (1 can), cooked chicken (1 cup, shredded), cooked pasta (1 cup), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons Gruyere cheese, 1/4 cup milk or broth.
Instructions: Combine the Cream of Mushroom soup, chicken, and pasta in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low heat. Stir in the milk or broth to adjust consistency. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese.
Finally, stir in the Gruyere cheese just before serving. The Parmesan melts readily and provides a salty, sharp base. The cheddar adds a creamy texture and mild sharpness. The Gruyere, added last, contributes a nutty, complex flavor and a slightly more firm texture.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Source: campbells.com
This section explores how to modify the classic Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe with chicken and pasta to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences. We’ll cover gluten-free, low-sodium, and vegetarian adaptations, providing clear substitutions and adjustments to ensure the dish remains delicious and satisfying.
Gluten-Free Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup with Chicken and Pasta
Adapting this recipe to be gluten-free requires careful selection of pasta and consideration of potential gluten cross-contamination. Gluten-free pasta is readily available in most supermarkets and comes in various shapes and sizes. Be sure to check ingredient labels to confirm the pasta is certified gluten-free. Some gluten-free pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Pasta Substitution: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta of your choice (brown rice, quinoa, corn, etc.).
- Thickening Agent: If using gluten-free pasta, you might need an additional thickening agent, as some gluten-free pastas don’t thicken the soup as effectively as traditional wheat pasta. Consider adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup towards the end of cooking, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Preparation: Follow the original recipe, substituting the gluten-free pasta and adding the cornstarch slurry if needed. Ensure all utensils and cookware used are free from gluten contamination.
Low-Sodium Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup with Chicken and Pasta
Reducing the sodium content requires careful substitution of high-sodium ingredients. This adaptation focuses on minimizing added salt while maintaining the overall flavor profile. It’s important to remember that even seemingly low-sodium ingredients may contain some level of sodium.
Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup is a classic base for quick chicken and pasta dishes, offering a creamy, savory foundation. However, if you’re looking for a lighter, more sophisticated soup to complement your culinary repertoire, consider trying a different flavor profile altogether, such as the delightful butternut pear soup recipe. Then, you can return to the familiar comfort of those Campbell’s-based chicken and pasta creations, appreciating the contrast in tastes.
- Reduced-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of regular chicken broth. Many brands offer low-sodium or no-salt-added options.
- Low-Sodium Soup: Opt for a low-sodium version of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, if available. Alternatively, you can prepare a homemade cream of mushroom soup using reduced-sodium ingredients.
- Seasoning Alternatives: Instead of relying heavily on salt, enhance the flavor profile with herbs and spices such as black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, or bay leaf. Experiment with different combinations to find your preferred flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives towards the end of cooking for added flavor and freshness. These add complexity without adding sodium.
Vegetarian Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup with Lentils and Pasta
This vegetarian adaptation replaces chicken with lentils, a protein-rich legume that adds both substance and flavor to the soup. The cooking method remains largely the same, with the addition of lentils requiring a slight adjustment in cooking time.
- Protein Source: Substitute cooked lentils for the chicken. Brown or green lentils work well; rinse them thoroughly before cooking. Cook the lentils separately according to package directions until tender.
- Cooking Method: Follow the original recipe, adding the cooked lentils along with the pasta during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This allows the lentils to heat through and absorb the flavors of the soup.
- Flavor Enhancement: Consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of tanginess.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
This creamy chicken and pasta dish, enhanced with Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom soup, is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit a range of occasions and palates. The key to a successful presentation lies in considering the overall aesthetic and the occasion. A simple weeknight meal requires less fuss than an elegant dinner party.Serving this dish is about more than just putting food on a plate; it’s about creating a complete dining experience.
The right garnishes and accompaniments can elevate the dish from a comforting meal to a culinary delight. Consider the color contrast, textures, and flavors when choosing your accompaniments.
Serving Styles for Different Occasions
The following table Artikels three different serving suggestions, tailored to suit various occasions, showcasing how the same dish can be presented in diverse ways to match the atmosphere.
| Occasion | Serving Style | Accompanying Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Casual Weeknight Dinner | Serve the chicken and pasta directly from the pot or a large, rustic bowl. A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of green. | A side salad with a light vinaigrette and crusty bread. This keeps the meal light and complements the richness of the soup-based dish. |
| Elegant Dinner Party | Individual portions, carefully plated on shallow bowls. Garnish with a swirl of crème fraîche, a few crispy fried shallots, and a sprig of fresh thyme. The creamy texture of the crème fraîche adds a luxurious touch, while the shallots provide a pleasant crunch and visual appeal. The thyme adds an aromatic complexity. | Roasted asparagus spears, a simple green salad with balsamic glaze, and a light, dry white wine. This pairing creates an elegant and balanced meal. The visual appeal is heightened by the contrasting colors and textures. |
| Potluck | Serve family-style in a large casserole dish, allowing guests to serve themselves. This is practical and encourages sharing. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds both flavor and visual interest. | A simple green salad, some crusty bread, and perhaps a dessert to share. Keeping the accompaniments simple ensures the main dish remains the star. The casserole dish itself provides a rustic charm suitable for a potluck setting. |
Cooking Techniques and Tips
Mastering a few key techniques will elevate your Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup with Chicken and Pasta recipe from good to great. Properly browning the chicken and cooking the pasta perfectly are crucial steps that significantly impact the final flavor and texture. Addressing potential issues, like soup consistency, ensures a consistently delicious result.
Chicken Browning
Browning the chicken before adding it to the soup is essential for developing rich flavor and a satisfying texture. Simply sautéing the chicken pieces until golden brown creates a delicious crust, enhancing the overall taste of the soup. This browning process also helps to render some of the chicken fat, contributing to a richer, more flavorful broth. The Maillard reaction, a chemical process that occurs at high temperatures, is responsible for the browning and the development of complex flavors.
Without browning, the chicken will likely be bland and lack the depth of flavor achieved through this crucial step. For best results, ensure the chicken is patted dry before browning to promote even cooking and crispier skin.
Pasta Cooking
Cooking the pasta separately before adding it to the soup ensures it achieves the desired “al dente” texture and prevents it from becoming mushy or overcooked. Boiling the pasta according to package directions in salted water is recommended. The salt seasons the pasta from the inside out, enhancing its flavor. Once cooked, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together.
This step is vital, as adding un-rinsed, hot pasta directly to the soup will significantly increase the soup’s temperature and potentially overcook the other ingredients. Adding the perfectly cooked pasta at the very end ensures it retains its texture and doesn’t absorb excess liquid from the soup.
Addressing Potential Problems
Several issues might arise during the cooking process. If the soup is too thick, simply add a little chicken broth or milk to thin it to your desired consistency. Conversely, if the soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. This gentle reduction concentrates the flavors and thickens the soup naturally.
Another potential problem is under-seasoned soup. Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust seasoning as needed. Salt, pepper, and herbs can all be added to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Remember, it’s always easier to add more seasoning than to remove it.
FAQ Explained
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, simply thaw the chicken completely before cooking and adjust cooking time as needed.
What happens if the soup is too thick?
Add a little milk or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead and reheated. However, it’s best to add the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
What are some good gluten-free pasta alternatives?
Brown rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or lentil pasta work well.
