Few things in life are as comforting as a piping hot bowl of chicken soup, and I am willing to defend that belief to the end. When asked about my final meal, I always answer: my mum's chicken soup. However, my mum lives in India, so that soul-warming bowl is as elusive as a leprechaun's pot of gold. Yet, when the craving strikes, I cave. That is exactly what happened when I decided to try every canned chicken soup from major UK supermarkets to find the tastiest option.
The Contenders
The line-up included Heinz, Baxters, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons, M&S, and Waitrose. I tested their 400g Cream of Chicken soups, judging them on chicken flavour intensity, number of chicken chunks, texture and creaminess, and overall flavour—essentially, would I eat it again? All soups were microwaved under identical conditions.
Tesco (59p)
Tesco's offering had a thin, watery consistency with an even texture. It lacked big chicken chunks but contained thin, shredded strands. The chicken flavour was neither strong nor mild—decidedly average. Overall, it was unremarkable, and I probably would not buy it again. Rating: 5.5/10
Waitrose (80p)
Waitrose was the biggest letdown. It contained only two measly chicken chunks in the entire can. Its consistency fell between watery and thick, with barely any flavour at all. It will not be on my repeat order list. Rating: 4/10
Morrisons (65p)
Morrisons was another disappointment. Its consistency was similar to Waitrose, and while there was some chicken, the pieces were more like slivers than proper chunks. The taste was bland and not chicken-forward. I would not reach for this again. Rating: 5/10
Baxters (£2.10)
Baxters, the most expensive at £2.10, was a letdown. It had plenty of big, juicy chicken chunks and the thickest consistency, but the overall flavour did not taste like chicken—it reminded me of French onion soup. The texture felt gluey, making it one of my least favourites. Rating: 5.5/10
Heinz (£1.75)
Heinz lived up to its reputation. It had barely any chicken chunks, but it boasted the second thickest consistency and the second-best flavour. The chicken taste came through clearly, making it a solid choice for a quick fix. Rating: 8.5/10
M&S (60p)
M&S tied with Heinz for second place. At 60p, it offered the third most chicken chunks and third thickest consistency. The chicken flavour was well-balanced, with a nice texture. A definite reorder. Rating: 8.5/10
Sainsbury's (59p)
Sainsbury's was middle of the pack. It had a few good chicken chunks and a near-thick consistency, but the flavour lacked chicken taste and felt like a cupboard staple. Not terrible, but not a repeat purchase. Rating: 6/10
Asda (59p) – The Winner
Asda's soup was a complete surprise. At 59p, it failed on chicken chunks—there were none—and had a thin, watery consistency. However, its flavour was outstanding: the chicken taste shone through, and it was the only soup that seemed properly seasoned and balanced. Despite having less salt than many competitors, it was delicious. I would buy it again without hesitation. Rating: 9/10
In conclusion, the humble Asda chicken soup, costing just 59p, outperformed all others, including premium brands like Heinz and Baxters. It proves that price and brand are not always indicators of quality.
