Chicken noodle soup is a beloved comfort food that has nourished generations. But is this classic dish also a good source of protein? I decided to dig into the nutrition facts and find out.
The Protein Content Varies
After analyzing several recipes and packaged soups, it became clear that the protein content of chicken noodle soup can vary quite a bit. A typical 1 cup serving ranges from 6-15 grams of protein. This fluctuation depends on the specific ingredients used, especially the amount and type of chicken
Homemade recipes offer more flexibility to amp up the protein. Meanwhile, commercial canned soups may skimp on chicken to cut costs, resulting in less protein per serving. So check those labels carefully if protein is your priority!
Below I’ll break down how the three main ingredients – chicken noodles and broth – impact the overall protein content of this cozy soup.
Chicken – The Star of the Show
Chicken is unsurprisingly the main protein provider in chicken noodle soup. After all, it’s right there in the name!
The amount and type of chicken can really affect the protein numbers. A generous portion of shredded rotisserie chicken or chicken breast will deliver more protein compared to a smaller portion of chicken thighs.
For reference:
- 3 ounces of shredded chicken breast has around 28 grams of protein
- 3 ounces of chicken thigh has about 10 grams
So when making this soup at home, go heavy on the chicken breast to maximize that protein punch. Even just doubling the chicken can make a significant difference.
The Role of Noodles
Noodles add comforting carbs to chicken noodle soup, though some types also provide a protein boost.
Egg noodles have the most protein since they contain eggs. Three ounces of cooked egg noodles packs around 4 grams of protein.
Whole wheat noodles may also offer slightly more protein than refined white pasta – but the difference is minimal.
In general, noodles play a supporting protein role next to the chicken. But opting for egg or whole grain varieties will provide a small extra protein kick.
Don’t Forget the Broth!
Broth often gets overlooked, but it can actually contain a unique type of protein – collagen!
Collagen is found in the bones, skin, and connective tissue of chicken. When simmered for long periods, as in homemade broth, this collagen gets released into the liquid as gelatin.
The protein content of store-bought broths varies based on the ingredients. But overall, a collagen-rich homemade broth will contribute more protein than pre-made.
Other Ways to Add Protein
Chicken, noodles, and broth form the protein foundation of chicken noodle soup. But you can incorporate other ingredients to up the protein even more:
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Beans – A can of white beans or chickpeas provides around 13 grams protein per 1/2 cup.
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Tofu – For a vegetarian twist, try silken or firm tofu. A 1/2 cup cubes adds around 10 grams.
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Veggies – On their own, vegetables offer minimal protein. But collectively they contribute, so don’t hold back on them!
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Protein powder – Stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides or a plant-based powder. Watch the texture though.
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More chicken – Shredded rotisserie chicken is an easy protein boost. Or use chicken sausage in addition to chunks of breast meat.
Key Factors That Impact Protein
Now that we’ve covered the main ingredients, here are some other factors that affect the protein content in chicken noodle soup:
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Serving size – Protein scales with portion size. A large bread bowl with more chicken and noodles will have more protein than a petite cup.
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Homemade vs canned – Due to standardized recipes, canned soups generally offer less protein density. But homemade recipes can be tweaked to maximize protein.
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Cooking method – Simmering chicken bones to make broth draws out collagen over time, rather than just using water.
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Ingredient ratios – A higher proportion of chicken to noodles and veggies results in more protein per serving.
The Takeaway – Chicken Soup Can Deliver Protein
While not a primary protein source like chicken breast or steak, chicken noodle soup can certainly provide a decent protein punch. Depending on the specific recipe, a 1-2 cup serving may contain 6-15 grams or more.
So while this soup is cherished for its nostalgic flavors and cold-busting abilities, its protein content absolutely deserves some appreciation as well! Just be mindful of portion sizes, ingredients, and prep methods to optimize that protein.
Now I don’t know about you, but all this soup talk has me craving a steaming bowl. I think I’ll put on a pot and whip up a batch using plenty of chicken breast and eggs noodles. That’s bound to be protein-packed and comforting – the perfect combination!
IngredientsChicken Broth, Cooked White Chicken Meat, Carrots, Egg Noodles (semolina wheat, egg, egg white), Celery. Contains less than 2% of: Modified Food Starch, Water, Chicken Fat, Salt, Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Carrot Puree, Onion Powder, Sugar, Soy Protein Isolate, Tomato Extract, Sodium Phosphate, Garlic Powder, Parsley*, Natural Flavor, Chives*, Maltodextrin, Spice, Beta Carotene (color). *Dried
Nutrition Facts| Food component / Nutrient | Amount, As Packaged | % DVDaily Value*, As Packaged |
|---|---|---|
| Total Fat | 2.5g | 4% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 4% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | —% Value not available |
| Cholesterol | 25mg | 8% |
| Sodium | 660mg | 29% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 13g | 5% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars | 1g | —% Value not available |
| Incl. Added Sugars | 0g | 0% |
| Protein | 7g | 10% |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 0mg | 0% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 2% |
| Potassium | 350mg | 8% |
| *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. | ||
Ingredients, nutrition facts, and allergen statements can change. Always refer to the actual package for the most complete and accurate information.
Product DescriptionMade with chicken broth, chicken, egg noodles, and savory vegetables, Progresso Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup has been warming tables and bellies for generations. Our chicken noodle soup contains no artificial flavors and no colors from artificial sources, with 100 calories per serving. Preparation is convenient and easy. Just heat in a saucepan on the stove top or in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave. Stock up on Progresso Soups as a way to warm up from the inside out during cold and flu season. Whenever you’re feeling under the weather, add our canned soups to your shopping list of essentials such as tissues, cold or cough medicine, or cough drops. At Progresso, we’re passionate about making great products. We’ve been creating soups, including favorites like Tomato Soup, Clam Chowder, and Creamy Mushroom Soup, for more than 100 years. And today, Progresso still uses quality ingredients for a tasteful flavor found only in our line of canned soup products.
- CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP: Made in the traditional way with chicken, egg noodles, vegetables, and other tasty ingredients
- COLD AND FLU SEASON: Nothing hits the spot like a warm, comforting bowl of Progresso Soup; Stock up when grabbing seasonal items like tissues, cough drops, cough medicine for kids, and more
- QUALITY RECIPE: No artificial flavors and no colors from artificial sources; Also try favorites like Tomato Soup, Clam Chowder, and Creamy Mushroom Soup
- QUICK AND EASY: Simply pour soup into a saucepan and warm on the stovetop or add to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave it
- CONTAINS: One 19 oz can of Progresso Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup; About two servings per can
Is Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup Actually Healthy? **Updated 2021**
FAQ
Does chicken noodle soup have lots of protein?
“Typically, a cup of diced chicken has 43 grams of protein, and one cup of Campbell’s Homestyle Chicken soup has 14 grams of protein so only about a third of the protein when comparing it to one cup of diced chicken,” Letten told Healthline.
How many protein is in 1 bowl of Chicken Soup?
One cup of Bowl chicken soup is around 237.9 grams and contains approximately 72.8 calories, 5.3 grams of protein, 2.4 grams of fat, and 8.3 grams of …
Is chicken noodle soup actually healthy?
All those bits of carrot, celery, and onion commonly found in chicken noodle soup are a great source of vitamins C and K, as well as other antioxidants and minerals. “Not only does this help build a healthy immune system to fight off viruses, it also helps your body recover from illness more quickly,” Allonen says.
How much protein is in a cup of homemade Chicken Soup?
One cup of Homemade chicken soup is around 245 grams and contains approximately 75.0 calories, 6.0 grams of protein, 2.4 grams of fat, and 8.4 grams of …
How many calories are in a cup of chicken noodle soup?
There are 65 calories in 1 cup of Chicken Noodle Soup. Calorie breakdown: 34% fat, 46% carbs, 20% protein. There are 65 calories in 1 cup of Chicken Noodle Soup. Get full nutrition facts and other common serving sizes of Chicken Noodle Soup including 100 g and 1 can.
What size chicken noodle soup has the least calories?
The size with the fewest calories is the Cup Chicken Noodle Soup (110 calories), while the Bread Bowl Chicken Noodle Soup contains the most calories (780 calories). Choose from the sizes below to see the full nutrition facts, ingredients and allergen information.
How much fat is in chicken noodle soup?
Chicken noodle soup comes in various nutritional profiles depending on the recipe and brand. For instance, 100 grams of chicken noodle soup generally contains 1. 55 grams of total fat, fulfilling 2% of daily fat needs, with a calorie breakdown of 34 from fat, 46 from carbohydrates, and 20 from protein.
Is chicken noodle soup healthy?
Nutritionally, chicken noodle soup can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folic acid and vitamin A. Notably, homemade versions can be higher in calories (up to 233 per serving) depending on the ingredients involved.
Is chicken noodle soup good for weight loss?
While incorporating chicken noodle soup into a daily diet might be a safe weight loss strategy, relying solely on a chicken soup diet for a week isn’t sustainable for long-term weight management and could contribute to yo-yo dieting. Misleading labels and high sodium levels in store-bought soups highlight the importance of being choosy.
How do you cook chicken noodle soup?
Put the chicken on a board and shred into bite-size pieces using a couple of forks. Return the chicken to the stock with the noodles, sweetcorn, mushrooms, spring onion and soy sauce. Simmer for 3-4 mins until the noodles are tender. Ladle into two bowls and scatter over the remaining spring onion, mint or basil leaves and chilli, if using.