Cream of chicken and chicken soup are two popular dishes that are often mistaken for each other. While they share a few common ingredients, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we will explore what makes cream of chicken and chicken soup unique, their nutritional values, and the versatility of these two dishes in cooking.
Many people often confuse cream of chicken with chicken soup due to their similar appearance and chicken base. However, the two dishes have different preparation methods and distinct flavors. While chicken soup is typically made with a combination of chicken, vegetables, herbs, and spices, cream of chicken is made by blending chicken stock and cream with lightly sautéed chicken pieces. The resulting dish is a creamy, rich, and versatile ingredient that can be used to thicken soups, sauces, and casseroles, or served as a standalone dish.
The Origins and Differences Between Cream of Chicken and Chicken Soup
Cream of chicken and chicken soup are two popular dishes that are often confused with each other because of their similar names and ingredients. However, they are not the same and have a few differences that set them apart.
Cream of chicken is a rich and creamy soup made from chicken broth, cream, and diced or shredded chicken meat. It is thickened with flour or cornstarch to achieve a creamy texture and is usually served as a starter or a main course. Chicken soup, on the other hand, is a clear or thin broth-based soup made from chicken and various vegetables. It is often considered a comfort food and is typically served as a light meal or a remedy for colds and flu. Despite their differences, both cream of chicken and chicken soup are delicious and nutritious dishes that offer a range of health benefits.
Nutritional Differences Between Cream of Chicken and Chicken Soup
There are some significant nutritional differences between cream of chicken and chicken soup. One of the obvious differences is their caloric content. Cream of chicken has a higher calorie count since it is made from cream, which contains more calories than chicken broth. A serving of cream of chicken usually has around 200-250 calories, whereas a serving of chicken soup usually has around 100-150 calories.
Another significant difference lies in their fat content. Cream of chicken is significantly higher in fat than chicken soup, which can affect individuals with high cholesterol or prone to obesity. An average serving of cream of chicken contains around 16-20g of fat, while the same portion size of chicken soup can contain roughly 3-5 grams of fat. In summary, although both cream of chicken and chicken soup may have similar tastes and uses, cream of chicken may not be the best option for individuals who are watching their calorie and fat intake.
How to Use Cream of Chicken and Chicken Soup in Different Recipes
Cream of chicken and chicken soup are often mistaken for each other, but they are quite different in terms of texture and use in recipes. While chicken soup is a clear broth made by simmering chicken and vegetables, cream of chicken is a thick, creamy sauce made from chicken stock, flour, and heavy cream.
Cream of chicken is usually used as a base for many casseroles and creamy soups. It adds a rich and savory flavor to dishes and can be used as a substitute for béchamel sauce. On the other hand, chicken soup can be used as a base for many different types of soups and stews, like chicken noodle soup or chili. It is also a classic comfort food that is often used for its healing properties when someone is feeling under the weather. Knowing the difference between these two ingredients can give you more options to experiment with when it comes to cooking, and ultimately help you create new, delicious dishes.
Popular Brands of Cream of Chicken and Chicken Soup and Their Differences
There are a number of famous brands of both cream of chicken and chicken soup readily available in the market, but these soups have very distinct differences. The big brands of cream of chicken soup include Progresso, Campbell’s, and Pacific Foods. Campbell’s is often regarded as one of the most flavourful cream of chicken soups, with small bits of chicken and rich cream.
On the other hand, the most favoured chicken soup brands include Progresso, Campbell’s, and Swanson. Progresso’s chicken soup is dense with dumplings and chicken, whereas Swanson’s is made using white meat chicken and a clear broth. Campbell’s chicken soup is less salty, with more subtle flavourings.
In general, homemade soup is often more wholesome than canned soup, but canned soup is more convenient and can be more affordable. When selecting which to purchase, pay close attention to the nutritional information and ingredient list, especially sodium content. All of these factors, including the brand, help to distinguish the differences between cream of chicken and chicken soup.
Making Your Own Cream of Chicken and Chicken Soup
Making your own cream of chicken or chicken soup is not only cost-effective, but it also allows you to control the quality of the ingredients used. To make cream of chicken, you will need chicken broth, milk, flour, butter, and cooked chicken. Begin by melting butter in a pot and adding flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, constantly stirring until it thickens. Add cooked chicken to the mixture and let it simmer for a few minutes. Your homemade cream of chicken is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes.
To make chicken soup, you will need chicken broth, diced vegetables such as carrots and celery, noodles or rice, and cooked chicken. Start by sautéing the vegetables in a pot with a little bit of oil until they are tender. Add chicken broth and bring it to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer. Add cooked chicken and noodles or rice and let it simmer until the noodles are cooked or the rice is tender. Chicken soup is a classic comfort food and can be easily customized to your taste preferences.
The Taste Differences Between Cream of Chicken and Chicken Soup
Cream of chicken and chicken soup may seem very similar, but the main difference lies in their taste. Cream of chicken is cream-based and has a richer, creamier taste than chicken soup. The addition of cream gives a velvety texture to the soup and enhances the flavors of the chicken and other ingredients. The cream-based soup has a smooth and creamy consistency that makes it a comfort food for many.
On the other hand, chicken soup is made with clear broth, boiled chicken meat, and vegetables. Chicken soup is lighter and less creamy than cream of chicken, and hence has a more delicate flavor. The broth is usually seasoned with herbs like thyme, oregano, and basil for added flavors. Chicken soup is considered a healthier option as it has fewer calories and fats than cream of chicken. In conclusion, both soups have their unique taste and benefits, and the choice depends on one’s preference and dietary requirements.
Which to Choose – Cream of Chicken or Chicken Soup?
In conclusion, while both cream of chicken and chicken soup share some similarities, there are a number of key differences between the two. Essentially, cream of chicken soup is a thick, creamy soup that is made with chicken broth, various herbs, and cream. On the other hand, chicken soup is typically made with chicken, vegetables, and a clear chicken broth. Some variations may include noodles or dumplings.
Ultimately, the choice between cream of chicken and chicken soup may come down to personal preference. For those looking for a creamy, indulgent soup, cream of chicken may be the way to go. However, those looking for a lighter, more traditional soup may opt for chicken soup instead. Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide which soup is the best fit for their taste preferences and dietary needs.
The Conclusion
Cream of chicken and chicken soup may seem similar, but they are two different dishes. Cream of chicken is a soup made with chicken, cream, and other ingredients like butter and flour to thicken it, while chicken soup is a clear broth-based soup made with chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Both soups are delicious and fulfilling in their own ways.
In essence, cream of chicken and chicken soup serve different purposes. Cream of chicken is great for those who want a richer and more indulgent soup, while chicken soup is perfect for those looking for a lighter and healthier option. Whether you prefer one over the other or enjoy both, they are both tasty soups that deserve a spot on your dinner table.
