If you're looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, cream of chicken or turkey soup is a great option. One cup of this soup contains around 142 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie choice for a hearty meal.

In addition to being low in calories, cream of chicken or turkey soup can also offer some nutritional benefits. This soup is typically high in protein and may also contain vegetables like carrots and celery, providing you with important vitamins and minerals.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value, ingredients, benefits, and recipe for cream of chicken or turkey soup to help you make this delicious meal at home.

Calories in Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

One cup of cream of chicken or turkey soup typically contains around 142 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a filling and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Value of Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

In addition to being low in calories, cream of chicken or turkey soup can provide some important nutritional benefits. This soup is typically high in protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles. It may also contain vegetables like carrots and celery, which provide important vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients in Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

The ingredients in cream of chicken or turkey soup can vary depending on the recipe, but some common ingredients include:

• Chicken or turkey broth or stock
• Cream or milk
• Butter or oil
• Flour or another thickening agent
• Shredded chicken or turkey
• Vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions
• Spices like salt, pepper, and thyme

Some recipes may also call for additional ingredients like rice, potatoes, or other vegetables.

Benefits of Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

Cream of chicken or turkey soup offers several potential benefits, including:

• A comforting and satisfying meal
• Relatively low in calories
• High in protein
• May contain important nutrients from vegetables
• Can be a good way to use up leftover chicken or turkey

How to Make Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

Making cream of chicken or turkey soup is relatively easy and can be done in just a few steps. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

1. Melt butter or heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery and cook until softened.
3. Add flour and stir until combined with the vegetables and butter or oil.
4. Add chicken or turkey broth or stock and stir until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
5. Add shredded chicken or turkey and milk or cream and stir until heated through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices and serve.

You can customize this basic recipe by adding different vegetables or spices, or by using different types of broth or stock.

Serving Ideas for Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

Cream of chicken or turkey soup can be served on its own as a satisfying meal, or it can be paired with other dishes for a more complete meal. Some serving ideas include:

• Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
• Top with shredded cheese or croutons for extra texture and flavor.
• Pair with a salad or sandwich for a more complete meal.
• Add additional vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.

Storage and Shelf Life for Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

Cream of chicken or turkey soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. To store in the freezer, let the soup cool completely and ladle it into airtight containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion.

Variations of Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup

There are many variations of cream of chicken or turkey soup that you can try at home. Some popular variations include:

• Add potatoes or rice for extra texture and flavor.
• Use different vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or peas.
• Use different types of broth or stock, like vegetable or beef.
• Add different spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor.

Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup Recipe

Here's a recipe for cream of chicken or turkey soup:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1/4 cup flour
• 4 cups chicken or turkey broth or stock
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken or turkey
• 1 cup milk or cream
• Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened.
3. Add flour and stir until combined with vegetables and butter.
4. Add broth or stock and stir until mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
5. Add chicken or turkey and milk or cream and stir until heated through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme and serve.

Cream of Chicken or Turkey Soup Meal Ideas

Cream of chicken or turkey soup can be a great meal on its own or paired with other dishes for a more complete meal. Here are some meal ideas to try:

• Pair with a salad and crusty bread for a light lunch or dinner.
• Add extra vegetables like spinach or kale for a more nutritious meal.
• Top with shredded cheese or croutons for extra flavor and texture.
• Serve alongside a sandwich or wrap for a filling meal.