We’ve all been there. You want soup, but you don’t want to start chopping, simmering, or pretending you’re running a kitchen on a weeknight. Trader Joe’s Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup looks like the kind of thing someone might bring you when you’re sick, and that’s the vibe it's going for. At $4.99, this can be a bit of a lifesaver if you need a base for a recipe or are feeling under the weather.
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Review
This soup comes in a 24-ounce plastic tub in the refrigerated section. It has chunks of white meat chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and a golden, savory broth. It’s fully cooked and just needs to be heated in the microwave or on the stove.
This is a no-nonsense kind of soup. The broth is rich and comforting with a clean, well-seasoned chicken flavor that doesn’t scream “from a package.” The vegetables have actual texture. The carrots aren’t mushy, and the celery holds its shape, which is a pleasant surprise.
Now, the chicken. It’s a little inconsistent. Some pieces are juicy and tender, while others are on the drier side. It won’t ruin the experience, but it might make you pause mid-spoonful.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the container. There are no noodles. None. So if you’re expecting a classic chicken noodle soup, this isn’t it. That might be a dealbreaker for some, but for others it’s a win. It keeps things lighter, cleaner, and honestly makes a solid base if you want to doctor it up yourself.
Overall, it’s a great option when you need a quick comfort fix and don’t want to cook. Just don’t come looking for pasta. And if you prefer seafood, be sure to check out Trader Joe's Lobster Bisque.
How to Serve
- Heat and serve with a crusty slice of bread
- Sprinkle with parsley or a squeeze of lemon for brightness
- Stir in leftover rice or cooked noodles to bulk it up
Creative Uses
- Use as a base for a pot pie filling
- Add matzo balls or dumplings for a heartier spin
- Simmer with extra veggies and a splash of lemon juice for a brighter bowl
FAQs about Trader Joe's Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Yes, but always double-check the label if you have dietary restrictions.
Absolutely. Just store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw before reheating.
No, it’s a noodle-free soup with chicken, vegetables, and broth.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup is what you reach for when you need warmth in a bowl. It’s not trying to be fancy or fill you up with starch. It’s flavorful, easy, and hits the comfort note just right. Keep expectations in check about the protein and texture, and this will earn a spot in your cold-weather lineup.
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Trader Joe’s Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup
Product Name: Trader Joe’s Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup tastes like homemade without the effort.
Price: $4.99
Summary
Trader Joe’s Kettle Cooked Chicken Soup tastes like homemade without the effort.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Rich Broth: Tastes like it simmered all day
- Fresh Veggies: Carrots and celery aren’t overcooked
- Quick and Easy: Heat-and-eat comfort food
Cons
- Dry Chicken Pieces: A few chunks were on the tough side
- No Noodles: Could disappoint if you're expecting the classic version
- Light on Protein: Filling ratio leans more brothy than meaty
Rachel says
I went to Trader Joe’s last week and they were showcasing their chicken noodle but with gnocchi and heavy cream added into the soup. It takes like a potato soup on crack!!! By far my favorite soup and not expensive at all to make.
becomebetty says
Hey Rachel! This is a good item. I never thought to add those tings. Thanks for adding that because someone might be inspired to try that at home. Thanks again for taking the time out of your day to stop by and share!
Tim says
I did not have your experience. The soup was relatively flavorless and did not have much substance. The chicken and vegetables were scarce. The final turn off was the chunk of chicken skin.
becomebetty says
Hey Tim! Thanks for stopping by and sharing this. I know I wrote this review a while back and maybe they've changed it since. Thanks for taking the time out of your day to stop by and share.
Christy Moran says
Do you know if it is gluten free? I have celiac and cannot find out. By the ingredients I say yes. But there is so seal or notification saying this is so.
Margaret says
I found the soup to be very bland, wouldn't purchase again!
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing Margaret!
sandi149 says
Is this soup very greasy? My mom is sick with Covid and she likes chicken soup but nothing to greasy. If it isn't, I will get her a couple of containers.
Thanks!
becomebetty says
It has some grease but nothing too significant. There will be a thin layer at the top you could skim off before heating. I hope that helps and hope your mom feels better.
sandi149 says
thank you so much, I think I will get it for her. It does look very nice.
sandi149 says
Ohhh I have another question...can the container be frozen. I plan on buying two but since she is sick she doesn't eat so much, so could I freeze the other container? thanks for your help! 🙂
becomebetty says
Yes! I've frozen this product before without an issue. I hope that helps!
sandi149 says
My mom absolutely loved the soup. I am going to buy a couple more containers. Thanks again so much for your help. I love your site with all the TJ's reviews! 🙂
becomebetty says
So glad I could help!
Dawn says
Higher in calories than I would think considering there are no noodles or rice.
becomebetty says
Hi Dawn! If you look carefully at the container, there is still quiet a bit of chicken fat in it making it richer than most canned soups. I hope that helps!