When searching for convenient meal solutions, many shoppers turn to Costco's Kirkland Signature Chicken Noodle Soup as a pantry staple. This popular canned option offers a balance of affordability, portion size, and familiar comfort food qualities that make it worth examining in detail.
Product Specifications and Ingredients
Costco's chicken noodle soup comes in a substantial 30.5-ounce can, significantly larger than standard grocery store soup cans. The ingredient list includes:
- Chicken broth (water, chicken broth concentrate)
- Cooked chicken
- Carrots
- Celery
- Egg noodles (wheat flour, egg, niacin, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid)
- Modified food starch
- Salt
- Chicken fat
- Dehydrated onions and parsley
- Spices
- Chicken flavor
Unlike some premium brands, this Kirkland Signature product contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, though it does include modified food starch as a thickening agent. Those searching for costco chicken noodle soup gluten free options should note that the egg noodles contain wheat.
Nutritional Profile Analysis
Understanding the nutritional content helps consumers make informed choices. Per 1-cup (245g) serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 80 | 4% |
| Total Fat | 2.5g | 3% |
| Sodium | 790mg | 34% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g | 4% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
The costco chicken noodle soup sodium content represents about one-third of the recommended daily maximum, which is something health-conscious consumers should consider. The soup provides modest protein content but lacks the robust vegetable variety found in homemade versions. Those specifically researching kirkland signature chicken noodle soup nutrition details will find it comparable to other mid-range canned soups but with a larger portion size.
Taste and Quality Assessment
In blind taste tests comparing various store brands, Costco's version delivers a clean chicken flavor with recognizable pieces of carrot and celery. The egg noodles maintain their texture reasonably well when reheated properly. While not as rich as homemade chicken soup, it surpasses many budget grocery store options in ingredient quality.
The broth has a light golden color and moderate viscosity. Some tasters noted it could benefit from additional herbs, which leads to our next section on enhancement techniques. When evaluating costco chicken noodle soup vs campbell's, the Kirkland version generally scores higher for ingredient quality but similar on overall flavor profile.
Enhancement Techniques for Better Flavor
Many home cooks wonder how to improve costco chicken noodle soup to make it taste more homemade. Simple additions can significantly elevate the flavor profile:
- Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill during the last few minutes of heating
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors
- Stir in additional cooked vegetables like peas or corn
- Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for umami depth
- Finish with a swirl of good quality olive oil
- Include extra cooked chicken for more protein
For those concerned about sodium, diluting the soup with low-sodium chicken broth or water can help reduce the salt content while maintaining flavor. The generous portion size makes it easy to customize individual servings according to dietary needs.
Value Comparison and Serving Information
One of the primary advantages of costco chicken noodle soup is its value proposition. At approximately $3.99 per 30.5-ounce can, the cost per serving works out to about $1.00 when prepared as directed. This compares favorably to:
- Standard grocery store brands: $1.50-$2.50 per serving
- Premium organic brands: $2.50-$4.00 per serving
- Homemade soup: $2.00-$3.00 per serving (depending on ingredients)
The question of how many servings in costco chicken noodle soup depends on portion size. The label indicates 3 servings per container (1 cup each), but many consumers find it serves 4 when supplemented with additional ingredients. This makes it particularly economical for small families or meal preppers.
Storage and Shelf Life Considerations
Unopened cans maintain quality for 18-24 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer unused portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
When reheating, do not boil vigorously as this can cause the noodles to become mushy. Gentle simmering preserves the texture better. Those planning to freeze the soup should consider slightly undercooking the noodles initially, as they'll continue to soften during freezing and reheating.
Common Questions About Costco Chicken Noodle Soup
Is Costco chicken noodle soup gluten free?
No, Costco's Kirkland Signature Chicken Noodle Soup is not gluten free as it contains egg noodles made with wheat flour. Those with gluten sensitivities should seek alternative options or make homemade soup using gluten-free noodles.
How does Costco chicken noodle soup compare to homemade versions?
While convenient, Costco's version lacks the depth of flavor and vegetable variety of a well-made homemade soup. It provides a solid base that can be enhanced with fresh ingredients, but won't match the complexity of soup made from scratch with roasted bones and fresh herbs.
Can I reduce the sodium content in Costco chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can reduce sodium by diluting the soup with low-sodium chicken broth or water. Adding fresh lemon juice, herbs, and additional vegetables can help maintain flavor while reducing overall salt content. Draining and rinsing the noodles before adding them back to the broth can also remove some surface sodium.
What are the best ways to customize Costco chicken noodle soup?
Popular customization methods include adding fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme), a Parmesan rind while simmering, extra cooked vegetables, a squeeze of lemon juice, or additional protein like shredded chicken or white beans. For richer flavor, stir in a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
How long does opened Costco chicken noodle soup last in the refrigerator?
Transferred to an airtight container, opened Costco chicken noodle soup will maintain quality in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently to preserve noodle texture.
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