Life gets hectic. Between work, family, and everything in between, finding the time and energy to cook a satisfying and delicious meal can feel like a monumental task. That’s where pantry staples become absolute lifesavers. And few pantry items are as versatile and comforting as Campbell’s Tomato Soup. But have you considered pairing it with chicken? The combination is pure magic – a symphony of flavor and convenience that’s perfect for busy weeknights and beyond. In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of easy and delicious chicken recipes that utilize Campbell’s Tomato Soup, perfect for weeknight dinners and beyond.
The Perfect Match: Campbell’s Tomato Soup and Chicken
What makes Campbell’s Tomato Soup and chicken such a fantastic pairing? Several factors contribute to their culinary harmony. First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. Campbell’s Tomato Soup offers a delightful balance of sweetness, tanginess, and subtle umami notes. This complex flavor profile beautifully complements the mild and versatile taste of chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
The versatility of Campbell’s Tomato Soup shines when combined with chicken. It can be used in a multitude of cooking methods, from baking and slow cooking to stovetop preparations. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy baked dish, a hearty slow cooker meal, or a flavorful pasta sauce, Campbell’s Tomato Soup can be adapted to suit your needs.
Perhaps the biggest advantage of using Campbell’s Tomato Soup is its unparalleled convenience. It’s a ready-to-use ingredient that eliminates the need for extensive chopping, measuring, and simmering. Simply open a can, add it to your recipe, and let the magic happen. This convenience factor is especially valuable on busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Furthermore, both Campbell’s Tomato Soup and chicken are incredibly budget-friendly ingredients. This makes them an ideal choice for families looking to create delicious and affordable meals. You can feed a crowd without breaking the bank, all while enjoying a truly satisfying culinary experience.
Beyond the taste and convenience, this combination offers some nutritional value. Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Campbell’s Tomato Soup provides vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded and wholesome meal.
Classic Campbell’s Tomato Soup Chicken Bake
This recipe is a true classic for a reason. It’s simple, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. My grandmother used to make this every Sunday and the aroma would fill the entire house. It brings back so many great memories, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. The end result is a tender and juicy chicken bake with a rich, tomato-flavored sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 can (10.75 ounces) Campbell’s Condensed Tomato Soup
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 packet dry onion soup mix
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine Campbell’s Tomato Soup, sour cream, milk, onion soup mix, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Pour the tomato soup mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
For an extra cheesy dish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking. Add sliced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish for a more nutritious and flavorful meal. Top with fresh parsley or basil before serving for a pop of freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite roasted vegetables. A simple green salad also makes a great accompaniment.
Effortless Slow Cooker Tomato Chicken
This recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal. Throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious and fragrant dinner. I love this recipe because it allows me to get dinner on the table even on the busiest days. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, infused with the rich tomato sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for those cold winter months.
Ingredients:
* 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 1 can (10.75 ounces) Campbell’s Condensed Tomato Soup
* 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place chicken thighs in a slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine Campbell’s Tomato Soup, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the tomato soup mixture over the chicken.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken with two forks.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations:
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar for a tangy flavor boost. Include other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for a heartier meal. Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also add a dollop of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this shredded tomato chicken over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. It’s also delicious in sandwiches or tacos. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta Delight
This recipe is a quick and easy way to transform Campbell’s Tomato Soup into a creamy and flavorful pasta sauce. My kids absolutely love this dish, and it’s a regular on our weeknight dinner rotation. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal effort. The creamy tomato sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and the chicken adds a satisfying protein boost. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 can (10.75 ounces) Campbell’s Condensed Tomato Soup
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in Campbell’s Tomato Soup, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
- Drain pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss to coat.
- Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
Add a handful of spinach or kale to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients. Use chicken sausage instead of chicken breast for a different flavor profile. Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this creamy tomato chicken pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Beyond the Recipes: Creative Uses for Campbell’s Tomato Soup and Chicken
The possibilities for using Campbell’s Tomato Soup and chicken are truly endless. Here are a few more creative ideas to inspire your culinary adventures.
Tomato Soup Chicken Chili
Add Campbell’s Tomato Soup to your favorite chili recipe for a richer, tomato-based flavor. Include shredded chicken for added protein and heartiness.
Tomato Soup Chicken Pot Pie Filling
Use Campbell’s Tomato Soup as the base for your chicken pot pie filling. Add cooked chicken, vegetables, and seasonings, then top with a flaky pie crust.
Tomato Soup Chicken Quesadillas
Spread Campbell’s Tomato Soup on tortillas, then add shredded chicken, cheese, and your favorite quesadilla toppings. Grill or bake until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Tomato Soup Chicken Sloppy Joes
Combine Campbell’s Tomato Soup with cooked ground chicken, chopped onions, and seasonings to create a flavorful sloppy joe filling. Serve on toasted buns.
Tips for Cooking with Campbell’s Tomato Soup
While Campbell’s Tomato Soup is incredibly easy to use, here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results.
Seasoning:
Keep in mind that Campbell’s Tomato Soup is already seasoned, so taste your dish before adding any additional salt. You may need to adjust the seasoning depending on your other ingredients.
Dilution:
Depending on your recipe, you may need to dilute the tomato soup with water, broth, or milk. This will help to achieve the desired consistency.
Storage:
Store leftover soup and cooked dishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have Campbell’s Tomato Soup on hand, you can substitute tomato puree or crushed tomatoes. You may need to add additional seasonings to mimic the flavor of the soup.
Conclusion
As you can see, the combination of Campbell’s Tomato Soup and chicken is a winning formula for creating easy, delicious, and comforting meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend feast, these recipes are sure to satisfy. We encourage you to try these recipes and experiment with your own variations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun in the kitchen! What are your favorite Campbell’s Tomato Soup and chicken recipes? Share your thoughts and creations in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration!
