Have you ever found yourself staring at that half-used can of cream of chicken soup in your fridge, wondering if it’s still good to use? Trust me, we’ve all been there! As someone who hates food waste but also values not getting food poisoning, I’ve done the research on this kitchen staple that so many of us rely on for quick casseroles and comfort food recipes
The Quick Answer
Once opened, cream of chicken soup will last approximately 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in a covered glass or plastic container. If you want to extend its life further you can freeze it for 4-6 months while maintaining good quality.
Proper Storage Guidelines for Opened Cream of Chicken Soup
Let’s break down exactly how to store your opened soup to maximize its shelf life:
Refrigerator Storage (3-4 Days)
- Transfer the leftover soup to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid
- Never store it in the opened can (this can affect taste and potentially leach metals)
- Keep it in the main body of the refrigerator, not the door where temperatures fluctuate
- Make sure your fridge maintains a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below
Freezer Storage (4-6 Months)
If you don’t plan to use your leftover cream of chicken soup within a few days. freezing is a great option
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing
- Transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags
- Leave about half an inch of headspace for expansion
- Label with the date so you know when you froze it
- Store at 0°F (-18°C) for best quality
Pro Tip: I like to freeze soup in smaller portions (like in ice cube trays or 1-cup containers) so I can thaw just what I need for a recipe!
How to Tell If Cream of Chicken Soup Has Gone Bad
No matter how carefully you store it, cream of chicken soup won’t last forever. Here are some clear signs it’s time to toss it:
- Unpleasant odor: If it smells sour or “off,” don’t risk it
- Unusual texture: Look for clumping, separation, or a layer of liquid on top
- Mold: Any sign of mold means immediate disposal
- Discoloration: If the color has changed significantly from when you opened it
- Off taste: If you’re brave enough to taste it and it’s sour or strange, spit it out and discard the rest
Remember, when in doubt, throw it out! Food poisoning ain’t worth saving a few bucks.
What About the Expiration Date?
Here’s something interesting I learned: The “Best By,” “Best if Used By,” or “Best Before” dates on canned cream of chicken soup aren’t actually safety dates. They’re the manufacturer’s estimate of how long the soup will remain at peak quality.
For unopened canned cream of chicken soup:
- It typically has a shelf life of 2-5 years when stored properly
- Can often be safely consumed beyond the expiration date if the can is undamaged and properly stored
- Always check for signs of spoilage before using
For opened cream of chicken soup:
- The printed date becomes less relevant
- The 3-4 day refrigerator countdown starts from when you open it, regardless of the date on the can
- Always use your senses to detect spoilage
Thawing Frozen Cream of Chicken Soup
If you’ve frozen your leftover soup, here’s how to safely thaw it:
Refrigerator Method (Recommended)
- Transfer the frozen soup from the freezer to the refrigerator
- Allow 24 hours for it to thaw completely
- Once thawed, use within 3-4 days
Quick-Thaw Methods
- Cold water bath: Submerge sealed container in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes
- Microwave: Use defrost setting, stirring occasionally
- Important: Soup thawed by these quick methods should be used immediately
Risks of Consuming Spoiled Cream of Chicken Soup
Eating cream of chicken soup that has gone bad can lead to food poisoning, which might include symptoms like:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, may require medical attention. The elderly, pregnant women, young children, and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for serious complications.
Common Questions About Cream of Chicken Soup Storage
Can I use expired cream of chicken soup?
If the can is unopened, undamaged, and has been stored properly, cream of chicken soup can often be safely used shortly after its expiration date. However, always check for signs of spoilage before using, and when in doubt, toss it out.
Why did my cream of chicken soup separate in the fridge?
Separation is normal for many creamy soups, especially those containing dairy. If there are no other signs of spoilage (bad odor, mold, etc.), you can typically just stir it back together before reheating.
Can I reheat cream of chicken soup more than once?
I don’t recommend it. Each time you reheat and cool the soup, you’re increasing the risk of bacterial growth. It’s better to reheat only the amount you plan to consume.
What’s the best container to store opened cream of chicken soup?
Glass or BPA-free plastic containers with airtight lids are ideal. Glass won’t absorb odors or stains and can go from fridge to microwave safely.
Can I freeze cream of chicken soup that I’ve already mixed with other ingredients?
Yes, most dishes made with cream of chicken soup freeze well, especially casseroles. However, some ingredients like potatoes may change texture when frozen and thawed.
Creative Ways to Use Up Leftover Cream of Chicken Soup
Don’t want your opened soup to go to waste? Here are some quick ways to use it up:
- Quick Pasta Sauce – Mix with some milk, add cheese and seasonings for a creamy pasta sauce
- Gravy Base – Add broth and seasonings for a quick gravy
- Casserole Starter – The classic use! Mix with rice, veggies, and protein
- Creamy Vegetable Enhancer – Add to steamed veggies for a creamy side dish
- Pot Pie Filling – Use as a base for a simple pot pie
Storage Summary Table
Here’s a handy reference table for cream of chicken soup storage:
| Storage Method | Duration | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened can (pantry) | 2-5 years | Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight |
| Opened (refrigerated) | 3-4 days | Transfer to airtight container, keep at 40°F or below |
| Frozen | 4-6 months | Use freezer-safe containers, leave expansion space |
| After thawing in refrigerator | 3-4 days | Use within this timeframe after complete thawing |
| After thawing in microwave/cold water | Use immediately | Do not refreeze |
The Bottom Line
Cream of chicken soup is a versatile ingredient that can save dinner on busy nights, but proper storage is key to maintaining its safety and quality. When stored correctly in the refrigerator, opened cream of chicken soup stays good for 3-4 days. If you need longer storage, freezing extends its life to 4-6 months.
Always trust your senses when determining if the soup has gone bad, and remember that the “best by” date is about quality, not safety. With proper handling and storage, you can maximize the lifespan of this handy pantry staple and minimize waste.
Additional Tips for Food Safety
- Always wash your hands before handling leftover soup
- Use clean utensils each time you dip into the container
- Don’t leave cream of chicken soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours
- If you’re not sure how long the soup has been in your fridge, it’s safer to discard it
- Consider writing the opening date on the storage container with a washable marker
Remember, food safety is super important when dealing with any perishable food items, including opened canned goods like cream of chicken soup. Better safe than sorry!
Tips for Storing Soup in the Fridge
There are several things you can do to help maintain the flavour, consistency, and colour of soup that’s been stored in the fridge. The following steps will help to ensure your homemade or store-bought soup remains as fresh and delicious as it was the moment it came off the stove or out of a can:
- Don’t leave your soup out at room temperature for more than two hours. Any longer than this bacteria will begin to grow, leading to potential food poisoning.
- Soup left in the fridge should be stored in a clean, airtight container for maximum freshness and longevity. Glass or plastic containers work best for this.
- Ensure your refrigerator is set at a temperature of around 2C (36.9F) for optimum performance.
- Avoid storing it with stronger-smelling foods, like garlic-infused meats or mature cheeses, especially if you don’t like these flavours yourself.
Variety of Soup
Some types of soup last longer in the fridge than others. Creamy soups like Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Tomato Soup will generally last three to four days in the fridge. Similarly, soups with meat content such as Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup will also last in the fridge for up to four days.
However, most soups containing fish or seafood such as clams, prawns, or salmon will only last for a maximum of one or two days in the fridge before they begin to go off. After this, the soup should be discarded to avoid the possibility of food poisoning.
It’s always important to consider the ingredients in soup when assessing how long they’re likely to last in the fridge. For instance, vegetable soup will comfortably last for three to four days, as will any meat-based soup where the meat has already been pre-cooked before it’s been refrigerated.
As we’ve mentioned, creamy soups generally last around three to four days in the fridge. However, soups with a particularly high dairy, milk, or cream content may not last quite as long and should be consumed within one or two days.
Whatever type of soup you aim to store in the fridge, you should always complete the essential freshness checks before you come to reheat and consume it.