Looking for a comforting bowl of chicken soup but don’t want to make it yourself? You’re not alone! As the weather gets colder, many of us crave that warm, soul-soothing goodness without the effort of chopping veggies and simmering broth for hours. I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the tastiest chicken soup options available from restaurants and stores nationwide.
Restaurant Chains with Delicious Chicken Soup
When hunger strikes and you need that chicken soup fix these restaurant chains have got you covered with some seriously tasty options
Panera Bread
Panera’s Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is a fan favorite for good reason. Made with tender white chicken pieces in a rich well-seasoned broth with egg noodles carrots, celery, and herbs, it’s the perfect companion to their freshly baked bread. At just 100 calories per bowl, it’s also a lighter option if you’re watching your intake.
Culver’s
This Wisconsin-founded chain isn’t just about burgers and custard – their Chicken Noodle Soup is seriously underrated! Served in their iconic blue and white packaging this soup features white meat chicken thick plank-like noodles, and the classic mix of celery and carrots. Try pairing it with a grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort food combo.
Noodles & Company
With “noodles” in their name, you’d expect them to nail the chicken noodle soup game – and they do! Available in full or side portions, their signature soup contains grilled chicken breast, wavy egg noodles, and the traditional mix of celery, onions, and carrots. The side order even comes with oyster crackers for that extra crunch factor.
Au Bon Pain
This Texas-based cafe chain offers a classic Chicken Noodle Soup that hits all the right notes. Made with hearty chicken breast, perfectly seasoned broth, tender egg noodles, and the traditional veggie mix, it’s a basic recipe executed exceptionally well. At 120 calories per medium serving, it’s another lighter option.
Olive Garden
Olive Garden puts an Italian twist on the classic with their Chicken & Gnocchi Soup. Instead of traditional egg noodles, they use Italian pasta dumplings (gnocchi) for extra heartiness. The broth is creamier than traditional chicken soup and includes spinach rather than the usual carrots and celery. It’s perfect with their never-ending breadsticks!
Chick-fil-A
Known for their chicken sandwiches, Chick-fil-A also makes a killer chicken noodle soup. Using shredded Chick-fil-A chicken breast, chopped carrots, diced celery, and egg noodles in a clear chicken broth, this soup comes with saltine crackers for dipping or crumbling. It’s a tasty alternative when you want something different from their usual offerings.
Cafe Zupas
With “soup” literally in their name (zupas means “soups”), this chain specializes in scratch-made soups using premium ingredients. Their Chicken Noodle Soup features juicy grilled chicken, carrots, celery, egg noodles, fragrant herbs and spices in a warm chicken broth. This dairy-free, low-calorie option is perfect for those with lactose intolerance or seeking a lighter meal.
Boston Market
Boston Market’s Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup stands out from the crowd by using shredded rotisserie chicken breast – the same iconic chicken they’re famous for! With dumpling-style noodles, garden vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup has more substance than many competitors. It works great as either a side or main dish.
Grocery Stores and Supermarkets with Quality Chicken Soup
Don’t feel like dining out? These grocery stores and supermarkets offer excellent ready-to-eat chicken soup options:
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods offers several chicken soup varieties, including their Mom’s Chicken Soup in a convenient 24-ounce container. Made with simple, quality ingredients like chicken stock, chicken meat, celery, onions, carrots, and herbs, it’s a clean and wholesome option. Plus, it’s gluten-free certified for those with sensitivities. They also offer Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup and Chicken & Rice Soup if you want to switch things up.
Costco
Costco’s rotisserie chicken soup in their deli section is a hidden gem! Using their famous rotisserie chicken, it’s hearty, flavorful, and comes in generous portions. You can also find quality packaged options like Kirkland Signature soups for a quick heat-and-eat meal.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s offers several chicken soup options, including their refrigerated Chicken Soup with Veggies and their frozen Organic Chicken & Wild Rice Soup. Both feature clean ingredients and distinctive flavor profiles that elevate them above typical grocery store soups.
Local Delis and Specialty Shops
Don’t forget to check out local delis and specialty food shops in your area! Many make fresh chicken soup daily using traditional recipes and quality ingredients. These small businesses often put extra love into their soups, resulting in homestyle flavor that’s hard to beat.
Food Delivery Services with Chicken Soup Options
Don’t want to leave the house? These food delivery services can bring chicken soup right to your door:
DoorDash
DoorDash connects you with local restaurants serving chicken soup in your area. Simply search “chicken soup near me” on their platform to discover options from both chain restaurants and local eateries. You can filter by price, delivery time, and customer ratings to find the perfect soup for your cravings.
Uber Eats
Similar to DoorDash, Uber Eats offers delivery from numerous restaurants with chicken soup on their menus. Their app makes it easy to compare prices and delivery times across multiple vendors.
Grubhub
Grubhub partners with thousands of restaurants nationwide, including many that serve excellent chicken soup. Their platform often features exclusive deals and discounts that can make your soup delivery more affordable.
Instacart and Amazon Fresh
If you prefer to heat up soup at home, services like Instacart and Amazon Fresh can deliver packaged chicken soup from grocery stores in your area. This option is usually more economical than restaurant delivery and gives you the flexibility to heat the soup whenever you’re ready to eat.
What Makes a Great Chicken Soup?
When hunting for the best chicken soup, here’s what to look for:
Quality Ingredients
- Chicken: The best soups use real, identifiable pieces of chicken rather than processed meat or flavoring.
- Broth: A rich, well-developed broth forms the foundation of any good chicken soup.
- Vegetables: Fresh, properly cooked veggies add nutrition and texture.
- Noodles or Rice: These should be cooked to the right consistency – not mushy or undercooked.
Balanced Flavors
Great chicken soup has a harmonious balance of savory, umami, and herbaceous notes. The seasoning should enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
Consistency
The broth should have substance without being too thick or too watery. The ratio of solid ingredients to broth matters too – you want enough chicken and vegetables in each spoonful.
Why We Love Chicken Soup
There’s a reason chicken soup has endured for thousands of years as a beloved dish worldwide:
Health Benefits
Chicken soup isn’t just delicious – it actually has science-backed health benefits! The warm broth can help clear congestion, while the protein from chicken supports immune function. Many traditional recipes also include immune-boosting ingredients like garlic and ginger.
Emotional Comfort
There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of chicken soup that goes beyond its physical properties. Many of us associate it with being cared for during childhood illnesses or cold winter days, creating powerful emotional connections.
Versatility
From classic American chicken noodle to Thai tom kha gai to Mexican caldo de pollo, virtually every culture has their own version of chicken soup. This versatility means there’s a style to suit every preference.
Final Thoughts
While homemade chicken soup will always have a special place in our hearts, sometimes we need the convenience of restaurant or store-bought options. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious choices available nationwide!
Whether you prefer the classic approach of Panera and Culver’s, the Italian twist at Olive Garden, or the rotisserie goodness of Boston Market, there’s a chicken soup out there with your name on it. And if you’d rather enjoy it at home, retailers like Whole Foods and specialty delis have got you covered with quality take-home options.
So next time you’re craving that comforting bowl of goodness, you’ll know exactly where to go. Stay warm and soup-satisfied!
Chicken : Soups, Broth & Chili
Soups, Broth & Chili: Warm Comfort in Every Spoonful
When the weather turns chilly or you’re simply craving something comforting and hearty, there’s no better solution than a warm bowl of soup, broth, miso or chili. These appetizers, not only offer satisfying flavors but also provide essential nutrients and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a light chicken clear soup, indulging in a classic chicken or egg noodles soup, a pacific foods organic or savoring a rich, spicy chili, these comfort foods are sure to bring joy to your table. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, you can also explore spicy options like buldak ramen or korean noodles to spice things up!
The Nourishing Appeal of Soups & Broth
Soups are incredibly versatile, offering a range of flavors that can be customized to suit any palate. At the heart of every great soup or vegetable soup is a flavorful broth. Chicken broth is a timeless base for a variety of soups, adding depth and warmth to every spoonful. Chicken broth is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients just like vegetable soup, that promote hydration and provide the body with vitamins and minerals. Whether it’s used as the foundation for a hearty soup or sipped on its own for comfort, chicken broth offers a soothing experience.
For those looking for something light and refreshing, chicken clear soup is a perfect choice. This broth-based soup is made with tender chicken, vegetables and aromatic herbs, offering a delicate yet flavorful experience. Chicken clear soup is often praised for its nourishing qualities, making it an excellent option when you need a warm, easily digestible meal or are feeling under the weather. It’s also a great base for adding additional ingredients like rice, noodles or greens, allowing you to tailor the vegetable soup to your taste.
The Classic Comfort of Chicken Noodle Soup
One of the most iconic soups is chicken noodle soup. Loved by people of all ages, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, savory broth and perfectly cooked noodles, chicken noodle soup offers a satisfying and hearty meal in every bowl. Whether homemade or store-bought, chicken noodle soup remains a favorite choice for those looking for a nutritious and filling option that’s also easy to prepare.
This soup is known for its comforting properties and it’s often recommended for its ability to help alleviate cold symptoms. The combination of chicken, vegetables like carrots, and broth provides a nutritious blend that can soothe the body, while the noodles add the perfect amount of substance to the dish. It’s also an incredibly versatile meal—whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with a sandwich or salad, chicken noodle soup never disappoints.
Chili: A Hearty Alternative for Cold Days
For those seeking something more robust, chili is the perfect dish to satisfy hunger and provide warmth. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, chili is an ideal meal for cooler weather. Traditional chili recipes often include ground beef or turkey, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. However, chili can easily be customized to suit a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian or vegan options.
Chili is more than just a comforting meal—it’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a game day party, a big pot of chili can feed a crowd while offering rich, complex flavors that are sure to delight. You can make chili as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting the seasoning, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or even tortilla chips for added crunch.
The Spice of Buldak Ramen & Korean Noodles
If you’re craving something spicy and packed with flavor, buldak ramen is the perfect dish to heat things up. A popular Korean noodle dish, buldak ramen is famous for its fiery spice and bold flavors. Known as “fire noodles,” these noodles offer a spicy, savory kick that can satisfy those looking for something more intense than a traditional bowl of soup or broth. Korean noodles come in various forms, from spicy ramen to savory noodle soups, all bursting with rich umami and deep flavors. If you’re looking for an adventurous meal, buldak ramen is a great way to spice up your usual soup routine.
Health Benefits of Soups, Broth & Chili
Soups, broths, and chili are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken broth is known for its high collagen content, which supports joint health and promotes gut healing. It’s also a great option for hydration, providing a warming liquid that nourishes the body.
Chicken clear soup is an excellent choice when you want a light, easily digestible meal. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and herbs helps provide essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and wellness.
Chili, especially when made with lean meat or plant-based proteins, is packed with protein and fiber. It’s a filling meal that can keep you satisfied for hours. Adding beans, tomatoes, and spices to your chili also provides a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthy, hearty choice.
FAQs About Soups, Broth & Chili
Q: What’s the difference between chicken clear soup and chicken noodle soup?
A: Chicken clear soup is a light, broth-based soup with tender chicken and vegetables, often served with minimal ingredients. Chicken noodle soup, on the other hand, includes noodles and is typically heartier with a thicker broth.
Q: Can I make chicken broth at home?
A: Yes, homemade chicken broth is simple to make. You can simmer chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs in water for several hours to create a rich and flavorful broth. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken parts and add extra nutrients to your meals.
Q: Is buldak ramen very spicy?
A: Yes, buldak ramen is known for being quite spicy due to its fiery sauce. However, you can adjust the level of spice by controlling the amount of sauce used. It’s perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.
Soups, broths, chili, and spicy options like buldak ramen and Korean noodles are perfect for satisfying hunger and warming up during cooler months. No matter your preference—whether it’s a light chicken soup or a fiery noodle dish—these comfort foods are sure to hit the spot.
How To Make Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – Natasha’s Kitchen
FAQ
What is the best store-bought chicken soup?
- Best: Rao’s Chicken Noodle Soup. …
- Old El Paso Jalapeño Chicken Noodle Soup. …
- Campbell’s Slow Kettle Roasted Chicken Noodle Soup. …
- Progresso Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup. …
- Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup. …
- Annie’s Organic Chicken Noodle Soup.
Which fast food chains have soup?
- Potbelly broccoli cheddar soup.
- Jason’s Deli Irish potato soup. …
- Captain D’s lobster bisque. …
- Firehouse Subs chicken and dumpling soup. …
- Chick-fil-A chicken noodle soup. …
- Panera Bread homestyle chicken noodle soup. …
- Firehouse Subs loaded potato soup. …
- Culver’s potato with bacon soup. …
Does Chick-fil-A sell chicken soup?
Yes, Chick-fil-A has Chicken Noodle Soup, and it’s a permanent menu item, but they also offer a seasonal Chicken Tortilla Soup during the fall and winter months in select locations. You can order the chicken noodle soup in cup or bowl sizes, which include shredded chicken, egg noodles, carrots, and celery in a hearty broth, served with saltine crackers.
Does Panera Bread sell chicken soup?