Dry Chicken Soup Mix Recipe

Chicken soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth when you’re feeling under the weather, or when you simply want a soothing, nourishing meal. However, sometimes you might not have the time or ingredients to make chicken soup from scratch. That’s where dry chicken soup mix comes in! It’s a quick and convenient alternative, offering the same heartwarming flavors with minimal effort.

But let’s get real: not all dry soup mixes are created equal. While store-bought options often lack depth in flavor, homemade dry mixes can elevate your soup game to a whole new level. By assembling your own dry chicken soup mix, you’ll not only save time but also control the ingredients for a healthier, tastier option that can be tailored to your personal preferences.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how you can create your own dry chicken soup mix from scratch. I’ll walk you through everything you need, from ingredients to cooking instructions, and even offer some expert tips and variations to take this recipe to the next level. Ready to become a dry soup mix pro? Let’s get started!

This dry chicken soup mix recipe is designed to be quick to assemble and perfect for storing, making it easy to pull out when you’re craving a bowl of homemade soup. With simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this mix delivers all the savory goodness of chicken soup in a flash. Once you have the dry mix, just add water and a few fresh ingredients to bring it to life.

Ingredients Needed

To make your own dry chicken soup mix, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These items can often be found in your kitchen or easily picked up at the grocery store. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s super flexible-you can tweak it to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Chicken Bouillon Powder or Granules – This is the base flavor for your soup. It mimics the richness of homemade chicken stock, providing a solid chicken taste.
Dried Chicken (or Chicken-flavored TVP) – You can find dehydrated chicken chunks or use chicken-flavored textured vegetable protein (TVP) as an alternative for a vegetarian option.
Dried Vegetables – A combination of carrots, onions, celery, and peas is classic, but feel free to experiment with any other veggies you like.
Noodles – Choose your favorite type of noodles, like egg noodles, or even small pasta shapes. Dry noodles hold up well in the soup, and they’re a great way to bulk up the dish.
Garlic Powder – A subtle yet essential ingredient that enhances the overall flavor.
Onion Powder – Provides a mild, rounded onion flavor without the need to chop fresh onions.
Herbs – A combination of thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf adds that “home-cooked” flavor. You can use dried herbs or mix it up with a few different ones like rosemary or sage.
Salt and Pepper – For seasoning and balance. You can also experiment with adding a bit of lemon zest or paprika for extra zing.

Cooking Instructions

Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, assembling the dry soup mix is simple. Here’s how you can do it:

Prepare The Dry Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken bouillon powder, dried chicken, dried vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs. Add the salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Portion The Soup Mix
- Scoop the dry mixture into airtight containers or jars, making sure you label them with the date for future reference. A typical batch of this mix will yield about 4-6 servings.
- Store your dry chicken soup mix in a cool, dry place, like a pantry or cupboard. It should keep for several months if sealed properly.
To Cook
- When you’re ready to make soup, simply add 1/2 cup of the dry soup mix per 2 cups of water or broth.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add your noodles and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re tender and the soup has thickened up slightly.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Add a splash of lemon juice for some brightness, or garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Chicken Bouillon Powder: This is a convenient way to pack in that savory chicken flavor. It dissolves easily in liquid, making it perfect for soups. However, be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Some bouillon powders come in reduced-sodium varieties.
Dried Chicken: The inclusion of dried chicken makes this soup feel more like a traditional homemade version. If you prefer, you can make your own dried chicken by baking or slow-cooking chicken breasts until they’re fully cooked and then dehydrating them. Alternatively, chicken-flavored TVP (textured vegetable protein) is a fantastic vegetarian option that mimics the texture of chicken without the need for meat.
Dried Vegetables: Dried vegetables provide convenience and shelf stability, but they also retain a concentrated flavor. The dried carrots, peas, and celery will rehydrate when the soup simmers, adding sweetness and earthiness to the broth. You can customize your veggie mix to include corn, mushrooms, or even spinach for extra nutrition.

Expert Tips

Make It Creamy: For a creamier version of your chicken soup, add a dollop of heavy cream, milk, or half-and-half toward the end of cooking. This will create a rich, velvety texture that elevates the soup.
Boost the Flavor: If you feel like the flavor is lacking a bit, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the umami flavor. A few dashes of hot sauce can also provide a nice kick if you’re into spicy soups.
Herb Variations: While thyme, parsley, and bay leaves are traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, dill, or tarragon for a unique twist. Keep in mind that dried herbs are much stronger than fresh ones, so start with smaller amounts and taste as you go.
Noodle Tip: If you’re preparing this soup ahead of time or for a large group, it’s often best to cook the noodles separately. Noodles can absorb too much liquid when stored, leaving the soup too thick. When serving, simply add cooked noodles to the hot soup.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, simply omit the dried chicken and use a vegetable bouillon base instead of chicken bouillon. Adding tofu or tempeh can provide a similar texture.
Low-Sodium Version: Opt for low-sodium chicken bouillon or use homemade chicken stock as your base. Reduce or skip the added salt, adjusting seasoning with herbs and pepper instead.
Chicken & Rice Soup: Substitute the noodles for rice for a different texture. Rice will also absorb more liquid, so be prepared to adjust the amount of water you use.
Spicy Chicken Soup: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a few fresh slices of jalapeño to give your soup a spicy kick. Top with fresh cilantro for an added flavor boost.

Final Words

Creating your own dry chicken soup mix is not only a great way to save time, but it also ensures you have a flavorful and customizable option available at a moment’s notice. Whether you’re in a rush or just looking to stock up your pantry with quick meal solutions, this dry mix is a fantastic addition to your kitchen arsenal.

With a few simple ingredients, you can easily elevate a basic dry soup mix into something personal, nourishing, and full of flavor. Plus, the ability to tweak the recipe allows you to match it to your exact preferences-whether that’s a heartier soup, a vegetarian option, or a spicier kick.

Dry Chicken Soup Mix Recipe