From Chef’s Resource: A standard bowl (approx. 8 ounces or 240ml) typically contains between 70-150 calories, depending on ingredients and preparation methods.
From HomeDiningKitchen A bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup contains approximately 590 calories according to their calculation, though they mention it can vary based on ingredients used
From the updated information A bowl of chicken soup typically has about 100-200 calories varying based on ingredients and portion size.
From Nutritionix: While specific calorie information was mentioned to be available at this URL, the content wasn’t included in your message.
Chicken noodle soup – it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re fighting a cold or just craving something cozy on a chilly day, this classic dish hits the spot. But if you’re watching your calories, you might be wondering: how many calories are in a bowl of chicken noodle soup?
I’ve done the research so you don’t have to! Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the calorie content of this beloved comfort food.
The Short Answer
A bowl of chicken noodle soup typically contains 100 to 200 calories. However, this can vary quite a bit depending on several factors like ingredients, preparation method, and portion size.
Factors That Affect Calorie Count
The calorie content in chicken noodle soup can differ dramatically based on:
- Portion size – A cup versus a bowl makes a big difference!
- Ingredients used – Homemade vs. store-bought
- Type of chicken – White meat vs. dark meat
- Noodle type and amount – Egg noodles vs. whole grain vs. rice noodles
- Added fats – Butter, oil, or cream
- Vegetables included – And how many
- Preparation method – Sautéed vegetables add more calories
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Calorie Comparison
There’s usually a significant difference between homemade and store-bought versions:
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
When you make soup at home, you control exactly what goes in it. A typical homemade version can range from 70-150 calories per 8-ounce serving if made with lean ingredients. However, some recipes that include more noodles, chicken, or added fats might reach around 590 calories per bowl.
Store-Bought/Canned Chicken Noodle Soup
Commercial soups often contain:
- Added preservatives
- Higher sodium levels
- Sometimes more fat
These typically range from 80-150 calories per cup serving, depending on the brand and type.
Breaking Down the Calories by Ingredient
Let’s look at what contributes to those calories:
Noodles
Probably the biggest calorie contributor in the soup! A cup of cooked egg noodles (commonly used) contains about 220 calories. Different noodle types affect the total:
- Egg noodles: Higher in calories
- Rice noodles: Usually lower in calories
- Whole grain noodles: Similar calories but more fiber
Chicken
The type of chicken matters:
- Skinless chicken breast: About 165 calories per 100g
- Dark meat with skin: Can have nearly twice the calories!
Broth
Typically low in calories:
- Homemade chicken broth: Around 15 calories per cup
- Store-bought broth: Can vary, especially if it contains added fats
Vegetables
These add minimal calories but lots of nutrition:
- Carrots: About 25 calories per medium carrot
- Celery: Only 6 calories per medium stalk
- Onions: Around 16 calories for 1/4 medium onion
Added Fats
This is where calories can sneak in:
- Olive oil (for sautéing): 119 calories per tablespoon
- Butter: Similar calorie content to oil
Portion Size Matters!
We need to talk about portion sizes because they’re SUPER important when counting calories:
- A standard serving of soup is typically 1 cup (8 ounces)
- Restaurant portions are often much larger
- A “bowl” can mean different things to different people
So when someone says “a bowl of chicken noodle soup has X calories,” always ask yourself: how big is that bowl?
Tips for Making Lower-Calorie Chicken Noodle Soup
If you’re watching your calorie intake, try these simple adjustments:
- Choose lean protein – Use skinless chicken breast instead of dark meat
- Load up on veggies – They add volume and nutrients without many calories
- Go easy on noodles – Reduce the amount or try zoodles (zucchini noodles)
- Skip the sauté – Simmer vegetables directly in broth instead of sautéing in oil first
- Use herbs and spices – They add flavor without calories
- Watch portion sizes – Use smaller bowls to help control portions
The Hidden Calorie Sources to Watch Out For
Some sneaky calorie sources in chicken noodle soup include:
- Pre-packaged noodles with flavor packets (often high in fat)
- Bouillon cubes (can contain oil)
- Cream or milk added for richness
- Oils used for sautéing vegetables
- Extra salt (doesn’t add calories but can cause water retention)
Is Chicken Noodle Soup Good for Weight Loss?
With only about 100-200 calories per bowl, chicken noodle soup can definitely be part of a weight loss plan. It’s filling, hydrating, and satisfying. The protein from chicken helps keep you full, while the warm broth can be very satisfying.
We often recommend soup as a starter course because research suggests it may help reduce overall calorie intake during a meal.
The Bottom Line
A bowl of chicken noodle soup typically contains 100 to 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option. Homemade versions give you more control over ingredients and can be made even healthier with a few simple swaps.
Whether you’re counting calories or just curious, chicken noodle soup can be a nourishing addition to your diet – especially when made with wholesome ingredients and mindful portions.
FAQs About Chicken Noodle Soup Calories
How can I reduce calories in my chicken noodle soup?
Use less noodles, more vegetables, and lean chicken breast. Skip added fats like butter or oil.
Does the type of noodles really matter that much?
Yes! Noodles are often the highest-calorie component. Different noodles can significantly change the calorie count.
Are canned chicken noodle soups higher in calories?
Not necessarily higher in calories, but often higher in sodium and preservatives compared to homemade versions.
Can chicken noodle soup help with weight loss?
It can be part of a weight-loss plan since it’s filling but relatively low in calories. Just watch portion sizes and added ingredients.
What’s the calorie difference between chicken noodle and chicken rice soup?
Chicken and rice soup tends to be slightly lower in calories than noodle versions, as rice typically has fewer calories per serving than egg noodles.
How do I calculate calories in my homemade soup?
Add up the calories of all ingredients used, then divide by the number of servings your recipe makes.
Is chicken noodle soup healthy despite its calories?
Yes! It provides protein, vegetables, and hydration. The nutritional value goes beyond just calories.
So next time you’re craving a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup, you can enjoy it with a better understanding of its calorie content. Remember that nutrition isn’t just about calories – it’s also about nourishment, satisfaction, and sometimes, a little bit of comfort for the soul!
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup:
Make Homemade Chicken Stock ahead of time using a rotisserie chicken, or choose a good brand of store-bought chicken stock.
Sauté veggies. Add butter, diced celery and carrots to a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Sauté for 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add chicken stock or broth. Season the broth with salt (definitely TASTE the broth before adding more salt), pepper, and a tiny pinch of rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper. I may add another small spoonful of “better than bullion” chicken or chicken bouillon powder as well, if needed, to taste.
Add noodles and boil. Once boiling, add noodles (either the uncooked homemade egg noodles, or dry store-bought pasta) and cook just until noodles are al dente. If using store-bought noodles, be cautious not to overcook them! Remove the soup pot from heat as soon as the noodles are just barely tender, as they will continue to cook off of the heat.
Add chicken. Add chicken meat from the rotisserie chicken. Taste the broth again and add more seasonings, if needed.
Serve. I love to serve this healthy soup with this easy No Knead Bread or homemade rolls! If you love this recipe, try my new Chicken and Dumpling Soup!
What Type of Noodles?
My mom always made chicken noodle soup with homemade egg noodles, but the great thing about this soup is that any kind of noodles will work!
- Homemade Egg noodles : all you need is flour, salt, milk and eggs and theyre ready in 5 minutes!
- Farfalle pasta
- Elbow macaroni
- Rotini