Are you craving a comforting, creamy, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This recipe transforms humble Campbell's Cream of Celery soup into a surprisingly delicious and satisfying chicken dish. It's perfect for busy weeknights, requires minimal cleanup, and is easily customizable to your taste. This is one of those best recipes that everyone will love, a true champion among quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 10.75 ounces Campbell's Cream of Celery soup
- 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your dish, making it more than just a simple soup-based meal. It’s a small step, but a significant one for homemade cooking success.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes more. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
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Combine and Simmer: Stir in the Campbell's Cream of Celery soup and milk (or broth). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a far more delicious dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Stir in the cheddar cheese (if using) during the last minute of cooking. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This easy recipe is perfect served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder along with the vegetables. A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary also complements the creamy celery flavor beautifully.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before simmering.
- Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce adds a pleasant kick.
- Make it a one-pot meal: For even easier cleanup, cook the entire dish in a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Rice: Add 1 cup of cooked rice to the skillet along with the soup for a heartier meal.
- Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Substitute wild rice for regular rice for a more sophisticated flavor.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or green beans. Experiment to discover your perfect combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size. This is an estimate for one serving of the recipe above without cheese:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Campbell's Cream of Celery soup recipe with chicken is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. It's a great example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. Enjoy!