When it comes to comfort food, few things can beat a warm, steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. Not only is it a classic remedy for colds and flu, but it’s also a staple in many households around the world. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the healthiest chicken noodle soup to buy. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of chicken noodle soup and explore what makes a healthy option, as well as provide you with some top picks to consider.
What Makes a Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Before we dive into the best options, let’s take a look at what makes a healthy chicken noodle soup. Here are some key factors to consider:
Low Sodium Content
One of the biggest concerns with store-bought chicken noodle soup is the high sodium content. Many commercial soups are loaded with salt, which can be detrimental to our health, especially for those with high blood pressure or other heart conditions. When shopping for a healthy chicken noodle soup, look for options that have less than 400mg of sodium per serving.
Whole Ingredients
A healthy chicken noodle soup should be made with whole, recognizable ingredients. Avoid soups that contain artificial preservatives, flavor enhancers, or other processed additives. Instead, opt for soups that use fresh vegetables, lean protein sources, and whole grains.
Lean Protein
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, but it’s essential to choose soups that use hormone-free, antibiotic-free chicken. This ensures that you’re getting a clean and sustainable source of protein.
Vegetable Content
A healthy chicken noodle soup should be packed with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions. These vegetables not only add flavor but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Top Picks for the Healthiest Chicken Noodle Soup to Buy
Now that we’ve covered what makes a healthy chicken noodle soup, let’s take a look at some top picks to consider:
1. Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Noodle Soup
Pacific Foods is a well-known brand that offers a range of organic and natural soups. Their Organic Chicken Noodle Soup is made with hormone-free chicken, organic vegetables, and whole wheat noodles. This soup is low in sodium and contains no artificial preservatives or flavor enhancers.
2. Amy’s Kitchen Organic Chicken Noodle Soup
Amy’s Kitchen is a popular brand that specializes in organic and vegetarian soups. Their Organic Chicken Noodle Soup is made with organic chicken, vegetables, and whole wheat noodles. This soup is low in sodium and contains no artificial preservatives or flavor enhancers.
3. Kettle Brand Chicken Noodle Soup
Kettle Brand is a well-known brand that offers a range of all-natural soups. Their Chicken Noodle Soup is made with hormone-free chicken, organic vegetables, and whole wheat noodles. This soup is low in sodium and contains no artificial preservatives or flavor enhancers.
How to Make Your Own Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup
While store-bought soups can be convenient, making your own healthy chicken noodle soup from scratch is a great way to ensure that you’re getting the best ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces whole wheat noodles
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of olive oil until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the whole wheat noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Conclusion
Finding the healthiest chicken noodle soup to buy can be a daunting task, but by considering factors such as low sodium content, whole ingredients, lean protein, and vegetable content, you can make an informed decision. Whether you choose to buy a store-bought soup or make your own from scratch, remember that a healthy chicken noodle soup should be made with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this article, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy bowl of chicken noodle soup that will keep you warm and cozy all year round.
| Brand | Sodium Content (per serving) | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Noodle Soup | 350mg | Organic chicken, organic vegetables, whole wheat noodles |
| Amy’s Kitchen Organic Chicken Noodle Soup | 320mg | Organic chicken, organic vegetables, whole wheat noodles |
| Kettle Brand Chicken Noodle Soup | 380mg | Hormone-free chicken, organic vegetables, whole wheat noodles |
Note: The sodium content and ingredients listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the specific product and brand.
What makes a chicken noodle soup healthy?
A healthy chicken noodle soup is one that is low in sodium, added sugars, and unhealthy fats, but high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Look for soups that are made with whole, unprocessed ingredients, such as vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid soups that contain artificial preservatives, flavor enhancers, and excessive amounts of salt.
When shopping for a healthy chicken noodle soup, be sure to read the nutrition label carefully. Check the ingredient list for whole foods and avoid soups that contain a long list of unrecognizable ingredients. Also, pay attention to the serving size and nutrition information to ensure that the soup meets your dietary needs.
What are some key ingredients to look for in a healthy chicken noodle soup?
When shopping for a healthy chicken noodle soup, look for soups that contain lean protein sources, such as chicken breast or thighs, and a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions. Whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, can also add fiber and nutrients to the soup. Additionally, look for soups that contain herbs and spices, such as turmeric, ginger, and black pepper, which can add flavor and anti-inflammatory properties.
Avoid soups that contain high amounts of sodium, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. Also, be wary of soups that contain artificial preservatives, flavor enhancers, and excessive amounts of salt. Opt for soups that are low in calories and high in nutrients to ensure that you are getting a healthy and satisfying meal.
How can I reduce the sodium content of my chicken noodle soup?
One way to reduce the sodium content of your chicken noodle soup is to choose a low-sodium broth or stock. You can also use herbs and spices to add flavor to the soup instead of salt. Additionally, look for soups that are labeled as “low-sodium” or “reduced-sodium” to ensure that they meet your dietary needs.
Another way to reduce the sodium content of your chicken noodle soup is to make your own soup from scratch. This will allow you to control the amount of salt that goes into the soup and choose low-sodium ingredients. You can also use salt-free seasoning blends or homemade broth to reduce the sodium content of your soup.
Can I make my own healthy chicken noodle soup at home?
Yes, making your own healthy chicken noodle soup at home is a great way to ensure that you are getting a nutritious and delicious meal. By using whole, unprocessed ingredients and controlling the amount of salt and added sugars that go into the soup, you can create a healthy and satisfying meal.
To make a healthy chicken noodle soup at home, start by sautéing lean protein sources, such as chicken breast or thighs, and a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions. Then, add in whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, and a low-sodium broth or stock. Season with herbs and spices, such as turmeric, ginger, and black pepper, to add flavor and anti-inflammatory properties.
What are some healthy alternatives to traditional chicken noodle soup?
If you are looking for a healthy alternative to traditional chicken noodle soup, consider trying a vegetable-based soup or a soup made with lean protein sources, such as turkey or fish. You can also try using different types of noodles, such as whole wheat or rice noodles, to increase the fiber content of the soup.
Another healthy alternative to traditional chicken noodle soup is a soup made with ancient grains, such as quinoa or farro. These grains are high in fiber and protein and can add a nutritious and filling element to the soup. You can also try adding in other nutrient-dense ingredients, such as leafy greens or beans, to increase the nutritional value of the soup.
How can I store and reheat my chicken noodle soup safely?
To store and reheat your chicken noodle soup safely, make sure to cool the soup to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Then, refrigerate or freeze the soup in a covered container. When reheating the soup, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that any bacteria are killed.
When reheating your chicken noodle soup, avoid overheating the soup, as this can cause the noodles to become mushy and the flavors to become bitter. Instead, reheat the soup gently, stirring occasionally, until it is hot and steaming. You can also reheat the soup in the microwave, but make sure to stir the soup every 30 seconds to ensure that it is heated evenly.