The Ultimate Guide to Cream of Chicken Soup

Creamy chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth and flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether savoring it on a chilly evening or using it as the star ingredient in a casserole, its creamy texture and hearty taste make it a household favorite.

While it’s easy to reach for a can of soup, nothing compares to the freshness and customization of a homemade cream of chicken soup. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make an easy chicken soup recipe from scratch that’s quick, flavorful, and healthier than store-bought alternatives.

Why Make Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup?

Store-bought soups can be convenient, but they often contain high amounts of sodium and preservatives. When making homemade cream of chicken soup, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to use fresh vegetables and lean chicken.

Harvard Health emphasizes the importance of cooking at home for better health outcomes and suggests that preparing your meals can help you manage portions and nutrient intake effectively. Explore more cooking tips on Harvard Health's website.

Ingredients for the Best Creamy Chicken Soup

This easy chicken soup recipe requires simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen:

• 1/4 cup (60 g) butter

• 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream

• 1 cup (150 g) cooked chicken, shredded

• 1/2 cup (75 g) carrots, diced as prefer

• 1/2 cup (75 g) celery, diced as prefer

• 1/2 cup (75 g) onion, diced as prefer

• 1 clove of garlic

• A touch of paprika (optional)

• Some fresh herbs like: thyme, rosemary, or parsley (optional)

• 1,5 dl of white wine or brandy (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Other desired seasonings

You can also customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand—add mushrooms for an earthy touch or peas for a pop of sweetness.

How to Make Cream of Chicken Soup

Follow these steps to create a rich, satisfying creamy chicken soup:

1. Sauté Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion (and optionally the fresh herbs), and cook until the onion is transparent, stirring occasionally. Then add the crushed garlic, and cook for a minute with constant stirring, careful not to burn it.
   

2. Prepare the Roux: Add some more butter if necessary and after it melts sprinkle flour over the softened vegetables. Stir well and cook until the raw flour taste is gone.

3. Deglaze: Deglaze the pan with some white wine or brandy if you have it on hand. Don't worry, the alcohol will be gone in a minute.
   

4. Add Broth, Milk, and heavy cream: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and add the heavy cream too, stirring occasionally to avoid lumps.
   

5. Thicken the Soup: Let the soup simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Then as an optional step, you can blend it to create a more creamy consistency. And for an even better texture, you can run it through a fine strainer.
   

6. Incorporate Chicken and Seasonings: Add the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and optional little bit of paprika. Simmer for another 10 minutes to heat the chicken and meld the flavors.
   

7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.

Variations for Creamy Chicken Soup

One of the best aspects of this easy chicken soup recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to adapt it to your taste:

1. Low-Carb Option: Replace the flour with some alternative flour or any replacements that can thicken the soup.

2. Vegetarian Alternative: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the chicken with diced mushrooms or tofu. Preferably sear them in a pan to give them some nice browning for maximum flavor!

3. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

4. Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a richer, cheesy soup.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy chicken soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:

• As a Standalone Dish: Serve it with freshly baked bread, garlic toast, or crackers.

• With Add-Ins: Add cooked rice, pasta, or quinoa to make it a heartier meal.

• Topped for Flavor: Garnish with sour cream, freshly chopped herbs, or crispy bacon bits.

• In Recipes: Use it as a base for casseroles, pot pies, or even creamy sauces.

Explore the USDA's meal planning tips for more ideas on incorporating homemade soups into your meals.

FAQs About Cream of Chicken Soup

Can I freeze creamy chicken soup? 

Yes! Freezing homemade soups is a great way to save time and reduce food waste. To freeze creamy chicken soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

For food safety and storage tips, refer to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. Their guidelines ensure your soup stays fresh and safe to eat when reheated.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a deep, roasted flavor to the soup.

What if my soup is too thick?

If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more milk or chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

How long does homemade creamy chicken soup last?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Why This Easy Chicken Soup Recipe Stands Out

This recipe is quick, customizable, and made from wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to canned soup. Cooking at home also allows you to enjoy the benefits of freshly prepared meals without relying on preservatives or additives.

Curious about how cooking at home can improve your health? Explore the Harvard Health guide on home cooking for more insights into how homemade meals can contribute to overall wellness.

Conclusion

Making creamy chicken soup or homemade cream of chicken soup from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. With this easy chicken soup recipe, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s both delicious and wholesome. Whether served on its own, paired with bread, or used in a recipe, this soup is guaranteed to please.

Next time you’re craving something creamy and comforting, skip the store-bought version and try making it yourself. If you like our recipe subscribe and share it with friends and family! Happy cooking!

Other relevant recipes:

How to Make Chicken Stock: A Comprehensive Guide for Flavor and Health

How to Make the Best Chicken Broth

How to Sauté: A Beginner’s Guide to Perfectly Cooked Ingredients

The Ultimate Guide to Making and Using Roux