How Many Calories in a Cup of Chicken Noodle Soup? The Ultimate Guide for Soup Lovers

Have you ever wondered just how many calories are hiding in that comforting cup of chicken noodle soup? Whether you’re watching your weight, counting macros, or just curious about your favorite comfort food I’ve got all the details for you! As someone who’s analyzed countless bowls of this classic remedy I’m here to share everything you need to know about chicken noodle soup calories.

The Quick Answer: Chicken Noodle Soup Calorie Count

A typical cup of chicken noodle soup contains approximately 170 calories. However this number can vary quite a bit depending on the brand ingredients, and preparation method.

Based on the Chick-fil-A chicken noodle soup nutrition information a cup serving provides

• 170 calories
• 4g of fat
• 25g of carbohydrates
• 10g of protein

But that’s just one example! Let’s dive deeper into what affects the calorie content and how different varieties compare.

What Affects Calorie Content in Chicken Noodle Soup?

The calorie count in chicken noodle soup can vary based on several factors:

1. Broth type – Clear broths are typically lower in calories than cream-based ones
2. Noodle amount – More noodles = more carbs = more calories
3. Chicken content – Higher protein content usually means more calories
4. Added ingredients – Vegetables add nutrients but few calories, while cream or butter significantly increases calorie count
5. Serving size – Restaurant portions are often larger than the standard 1-cup serving

Different Types of Chicken Noodle Soup and Their Calories

Let’s look at how different types of chicken noodle soup compare:

Homemade vs. Canned vs. Restaurant

Chick-fil-A Chicken Noodle Soup

Chick-fil-A’s chicken noodle soup is a popular choice among soup lovers. Their cup serving contains 170 calories, which is pretty standard for restaurant chicken noodle soup. What makes it special is the shredded Chick-fil-A chicken breast, chopped carrots and celery with egg noodles in a hearty broth. It’s also served with Saltine crackers, which add an additional 50 calories to your meal.

Making Lower-Calorie Chicken Noodle Soup at Home

If you’re trying to reduce your calorie intake while still enjoying this comfort classic, try these simple adjustments:

• Use skinless chicken breast instead of fattier cuts
• Add extra veggies like carrots, celery, and onions
• Reduce the amount of noodles and use whole grain options
• Skip added butter or oil when possible
• Use herbs and spices instead of salt for flavor

Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup (Beyond Just Calories)

Even with its moderate calorie content, chicken noodle soup offers several health benefits:

1. Hydration – The high liquid content helps keep you hydrated
2. Protein source – The chicken provides essential protein for muscle maintenance
3. Veggie nutrition – Carrots, celery, and onions add vitamins and minerals
4. Comfort factor – There’s a reason it’s a go-to when you’re sick!

When to Enjoy Chicken Noodle Soup on a Diet

At around 170 calories per cup, chicken noodle soup can definitely fit into most healthy eating plans. Here’s when it makes the most sense:

• As a starter before a larger meal (it can help reduce your overall food intake)
• As a light lunch paired with a small sandwich or salad
• As a warming snack on cold days
• When you’re feeling under the weather and need something gentle but nourishing

Surprising Facts About Chicken Noodle Soup

Did you know that chicken noodle soup has been around for centuries? It’s not just your imagination that it helps when you’re sick, either! The steam helps clear congestion, the warm broth soothes sore throats, and the nutrients provide energy when you’re feeling run down.

I’ve personally noticed that having a cup of chicken noodle soup before my main meal helps me eat less overall, which is great for calorie control without feeling deprived.

Making Your Own Calorie-Conscious Chicken Noodle Soup

If you wanna make your own healthier version at home, here’s my simple recipe that keeps the calories reasonable while maximizing flavor:

Simple Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups chopped carrots
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup whole wheat egg noodles
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until slightly softened (about 5 mins).
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth, add chicken breasts, thyme, and bay leaf.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to pot.
7. Add noodles and cook until tender (about 6-8 mins).
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This makes about 6 cups of soup, with each cup containing approximately 150-160 calories.

Common Questions About Chicken Noodle Soup Calories

Is chicken noodle soup good for weight loss?

It can be! With relatively low calorie content (around 170 calories per cup), it’s filling while being moderate in calories. The protein helps maintain muscle mass during weight loss, and the warm broth can help you feel satisfied.

Does canned chicken noodle soup have more calories than homemade?

Not necessarily. Canned soups often have fewer calories because they may contain less chicken and noodles than homemade versions. However, they typically have more sodium and preservatives.

How many calories are in chicken noodle soup without noodles?

Without noodles, chicken soup calories drop significantly to about 60-100 calories per cup, depending on how much chicken is included.

Does adding crackers to chicken noodle soup add many calories?

Yes! Saltine crackers add about 50 additional calories per serving (typically 5 crackers). If you’re watching calories closely, consider limiting or skipping the crackers.

Comparing Chicken Noodle Soup to Other Soups

If you’re trying to decide which soup fits best in your diet, here’s how chicken noodle compares to some other popular options:

• Chicken noodle soup: ~170 calories per cup
• Tomato soup: ~120 calories per cup
• Cream of mushroom: ~200 calories per cup
• Beef and vegetable: ~160 calories per cup
• Broccoli cheddar: ~230 calories per cup

As you can see, chicken noodle soup falls somewhere in the middle – not the lowest in calories, but definitely not the highest either!

The Bottom Line on Chicken Noodle Soup Calories

At approximately 170 calories per cup, chicken noodle soup is a relatively low-calorie option that offers good nutrition and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying Chick-fil-A’s version or making your own at home, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in appropriate portions.

I’ve found that keeping track of these nutrition facts helps me make better choices about my meals without giving up the foods I love. After all, who wants to give up chicken noodle soup completely? Not me!

Remember that while calories matter, they’re just one piece of the nutritional puzzle. Chicken noodle soup also provides protein, vegetables, and comfort – all important parts of a sustainable approach to healthy eating.

So next time you’re craving some comfort in a bowl, go ahead and enjoy that cup of chicken noodle soup. Now you know exactly what you’re getting, calorie-wise!

Do you have a favorite brand or recipe for chicken noodle soup? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

Note: Nutrition information may vary by brand and preparation method. The values provided are averages based on standard recipes and common commercial options.