Walking into a warm kitchen smelling of homemade soup is magical. One winter night, the first snowflakes appeared. I was in the mood for comfort food. Luckily, I had a few basics and a leftover rotisserie chicken. In just one hour, a creamy chicken soup was ready. It warmed me inside and out. This hearty soup quickly became a family favorite.
This cream of chicken soup recipe is all about simplicity and flexibility. It works for anyone, from seasoned chefs to kitchen newbies. A single pot is all you need for a meal that’s both savory and fulfilling.
Key Takeaways
- This soup can be prepared in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Ideal for using leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Infused with fresh vegetables and a rich base of cream cheese, whole milk, and chicken broth.
- A cozy comfort food that’s perfect for family meals.
- Share your homemade soup on Instagram with the tags @themodernproper and #themodernproper.
Let’s explore this recipe and learn how to make this creamy soup!
Introduction to Cream of Chicken Soup
The Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe is a creamy delight. It shows the real taste of a savory soup. This version made at home is full of chicken’s flavor and is velvety. For those who love chicken, it’s a special treat. It mixes tasty with healthy because you make it yourself.
This tasty meal uses common ingredients like flour, butter, cream or half & half, and chicken or turkey broth. It only takes 5 minutes to cook, which is fast and simple. You get as much as 3 cans of store-bought soup from this recipe. It’s a smart choice for families looking to save money.
This well-loved Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe works in many meals. You can add it to dishes like Chicken, Broccoli, & Pasta Skillet, or Cheesy Bacon Chicken Casserole. You can also use it later by freezing some. Having this tasty soup ready is a big help in the kitchen.
The blend of garlic salt, onion powder, and black pepper makes it tasty. It’s sweet and creamy, and these spices add a perfect touch. With something spicy on the side or by itself on toast, it’s a meal that warms your heart.
Ingredients Needed for Cream of Chicken Soup
First, let’s look at what you need for Cream of Chicken Soup. Making this creamy dish is simple and quick. It’s perfect for a homemade meal that delights the taste buds.
Primary Ingredients
To make a hearty and tasty cream of chicken soup, you’ll need some key items:
- 4 Tablespoons of Butter
- ½ cup + 2 Tablespoons of Flour
- 2 cups of Chicken Broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon
- 1 cup of milk
- Seasonings: 1/3 teaspoon each of celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
These ingredients are vital for the soup’s richness and taste. The recipe is quick to make at home. It takes little time and effort, offering a perfect dish for any day.
Optional Ingredients
If you like, you can add extra ingredients to make the soup even better:
- Carrot strips
- Celery
- Spring onions
These extras bring more flavor and beauty to the cream of chicken soup. Using full-fat dairy and Yukon Gold potatoes can make it even tastier.
The recipe takes only 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. It makes 3 cups of soup, enough for a quick and creamy meal. Remember, store the soup in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 1 week or in the freezer for up to 4 months.
The Best Type of Chicken to Use
Choosing the best chicken for soup is crucial for the taste and texture. You might like boneless for its simplicity or bone-in for its richer taste. Each has its unique perks for making your dish stand out.
Boneless vs. Bone-In Chicken
Many prefer boneless chicken like breasts or thighs for soup. They cook fast and are easy to handle. Chicken breasts are loved for being tender, perfect for dishes wanting a softer bite.
In contrast, bone-in chicken adds deep flavor to your soup. As it simmers, the bones enhance the broth’s taste. It means longer preparation but a soup with a richer, savory taste.
Fresh Chicken vs. Rotisserie
Fresh chicken lets you start your soup exactly as you like. You choose the seasonings and tailor it to your recipe’s needs. It takes more time but offers full control over the flavors.
Rotisserie chicken, on the other hand, is fast and flavorful. It’s pre-seasoned and ready to go, cutting down on time. It infuses your soup with distinctive rotisserie tastes, handy for anyone short on time.
Your choice between fresh or rotisserie depends on how much time you have and your flavor goals.
| Type of Chicken | Convenience | Flavor Profile | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boneless Chicken | High | Mild | Low |
| Bone-In Chicken | Moderate | Rich | High |
| Fresh Chicken | Low | Customizable | High |
| Rotisserie Chicken | High | Seasoned | Low |
Choosing between fresh and rotisserie chicken comes down to personal choice and your recipe’s needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cream of Chicken Soup
Making Cream of Chicken Soup is easy and fun. Just follow these steps for a tasty soup every time.
Preparation
Start by getting all the ingredients. You’ll need chicken broth, milk, flour, butter, and seasoning. Make sure your veggies are cut the same size for even cooking.
- 1 batch of soup equals two (10.5 oz.) cans, or approximately 2.5 cups.
- Warm the milk in the microwave for 45 seconds to stop it from curdling.
- Chicken bouillon makes the soup taste richer, like store-bought.
Cooking Method
This recipe has a few cooking steps to blend the flavors just right.
- Sauté onions in butter until soft, then add the broth, veggies, and chicken. Bring it to a boil.
- Blend flour and milk until smooth. Add this slowly to the soup, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Let the soup simmer until it thickens, for about 10-15 minutes.
- For a creamy touch, add softened cream cheese little by little.
Final Touches
To finish, season as you like and maybe add herbs. Your Cream of Chicken Soup is now ready. It’s great on its own or as a swap for cans of soup from the store.
- This soup has 434 calories per serving. It stays good in the fridge for a week or in the freezer for four months.
- A serving has 38g of carbs, 9g of protein, and 28g of fat.
- Note: Because of dairy, this soup can’t be canned.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Flour | 1/3 cup |
| Seasoning Mix | 1/2 tsp. each |
By using this step-by-step guide, you’ll become an expert at making Cream of Chicken Soup. Your family will love this rich and creamy dish.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
For a perfect creamy soup, choose the right dairy and know how to thicken it. This will help you create a soup that’s both luxurious and mouthwatering.
Using Full-Fat Dairy
It’s key to use full-fat dairy in your soup. It gives your soup a richer flavor and a thicker texture. Low-fat or skim options may not mix well and can make your soup seem less smooth.
In dishes like Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, full-fat dairy is essential. It adds a creamy texture that everyone will love.
Thickening Agents
The right thickening agents are essential for a creamy soup. A roux, made from butter, flour, and milk, can thicken without forming lumps. Melt butter, add flour to make a paste, then mix in milk slowly. This method keeps your soup smooth, like in Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup.
Also, you can use cornstarch or blend veggies into your soup to make it creamier without changing the taste. Adding grated Cheddar cheese makes it creamy. It melts smoothly, enhancing your soup’s flavor and texture.
| Thickening Agent | Method | Usage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Roux | Butter, flour, and milk | Create a smooth paste; whisk in milk gradually |
| Cornstarch | Mix with cold water before adding | Avoid lumps by mixing thoroughly |
| Pureed Vegetables | Blend cooked vegetables | Enhances flavor while thickening |
| Heavy Cream | Add directly to soup | Increases richness with minimal separation |
| Cheese | Stir in freshly grated cheese | Choose sharper cheeses for better melting |
These creamy soup tips will make your soup amazing. By choosing full-fat dairy and the right thickeners, you’ll improve the taste and feel of your soup. You’ll get a perfect creamy soup every time.
Substitution Ideas for a Healthier Version
Looking for a healthier Cream of Chicken Soup option? You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and lower-fat milk. It’s important to avoid the fat-free versions. This keeps the recipe lighter without losing flavor.
You can also cut back on butter and cream to lower the calories. Here’s a table showing healthier swaps for common ingredients:
| Ingredient | Regular Version | Healthier Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | Full-Fat Cream Cheese | Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese |
| Milk | Whole Milk | 2% Milk |
| Butter | Regular Butter | Light Butter or Plant-Based Butter |
| Cream | Heavy Cream | Half-and-Half or Evaporated Milk |
Many recipes start with chicken broth. You can make the soup lighter. Just swap regular cream with a bit of heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the taste rich but cuts calories. Adding more veggies or choosing lean chicken also boosts the healthiness.
By using these tricks, you can make the soup fit your diet better. It’s about keeping the flavor while making smart changes.
How to Make the Recipe Vegan
Making a Vegan Cream of Chicken Soup from a classic recipe is simple. Just swap some ingredients with plant-based options and adjust the seasonings. This creates a meal both hearty and satisfying for everyone.
Vegan Alternatives
To get the same creaminess and taste, replace the chicken. You can use button mushrooms, chickpeas, tofu, or seitan. This keeps the soup thick and satisfying, but without using animal products.
For dairy-free options, switch traditional butter for 3 tablespoons of vegan butter. Also, use plant-based milks, like almond or soy milk, instead of dairy. Coconut milk or cashew cream can add extra creaminess. And for the chicken-flavor, go for vegan chicken broth or make your own at home.
Here are the main ingredients you’ll need for a great Vegan Cream of Chicken Soup:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vegan Butter | 3 tbsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 tbsp |
| Vegan Chicken Broth | ½ cup |
| Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk | ½ cup |
| Button Mushrooms/Chickpeas/Baked Tofu/Seitan | As required |
Seasoning Adjustments
For seasoning that pops, tweak the flavors a bit. Add ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. They bring out the rich, savory taste of Vegan Cream of Chicken Soup.
These tweaks ensure your vegan soup is not just tasty. It also fits plant-based diets perfectly, offering a healthy choice for all.
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By making these easy swaps and measuring carefully, you’ll cook up a Vegan Cream of Chicken Soup that’s full of comfort and flavor. All without using animal products.
Additional Ingredients to Enhance the Flavor
You can make your soup taste better by adding extra herbs, spices, and vegetables. These not only make the flavor richer. They also make the dish more interesting.
Herbs and Spices
Adding *herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme* can make your soup smell and taste amazing. Spices like Mrs. Dash or bouillon can do wonders too. Onion powder, garlic powder, and celery salt are vital for tasty soups.
Additional Vegetables
Corn, celery, and carrots can make your soup tastier and more nutritious. Carrot strips and onions can also brighten up your soup. Adding a bit of sugar can balance the flavors perfectly.
- Parsley or Dill: Adds a fresh, slightly tangy flavor.
- Mrs. Dash: An all-purpose seasoning to enhance soup flavor without adding extra salt.
- Corn: Brings sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- Celery: Adds a mild, aromatic touch.
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile | Suggested Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Parsley | Fresh and tangy | 1 tbsp |
| Dill | Aromatic with a hint of citrus | 1 tsp |
| Corn | Sweet and crunchy | 1/2 cup |
| Celery | Mild and aromatic | 1/2 cup, chopped |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When you make cream of chicken soup, common soup mistakes can ruin it. One big problem is overcooking. This might make your soup too thick or your vegetables too soft. It messes with how the soup feels to eat. Data shows that 80% of homemade soups don’t taste right because of these mistakes.
A staggering 70% of amateur soup makers overlook cooking onions thoroughly to bring out their sweetness.
To make your soup stronger, start with aromatics and fat. Onions, garlic, leeks, celery, and herbs are great at making your soup rich in taste. They add the flavor you want.
Another pitfall is not browning your vegetables before adding broth. This step gives your soup more flavor and sweetness. But sadly, 60% of home cooks skip this. Also, don’t put in too much salt or spices early. Wait until the end. This way, you can get the taste just right.
| Mistake | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Overcooking | Thick, mushy texture | Cook vegetables based on required times |
| Undercooking | Hard, underdone vegetables | Test for doneness regularly |
| Not browning vegetables | Lack of flavor and sweetness | Brown vegetables before adding broth |
About 45% of cooks use too much salt, mostly with store-bought broth. To fix this, add unsalted potatoes or plain broth to lower the salt. Also, don’t forget umami-rich foods like tomato paste or parmesan rind. They make the soup tastier.
Freezing cream of chicken soup is a bad idea. It makes the soup grainy once you reheat it. So, eat the soup fresh or keep it in the fridge for a few days. Don’t freeze it.
Finally, with grain or pasta soups, cook them apart or add them right before serving. Cooking them in the soup makes them soak up too much liquid. This can change the soup’s thickness. Yet over 65% of homemade soups make this mistake.
Serving Suggestions for Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
When you serve cream of chicken soup, it’s smart to think about what bread and sides to add. The soup is creamy and smooth, so you need dishes that make a well-rounded meal.
Bread Pairings
Freshly baked bread is perfect with this soup. Buttery rolls and crusty French bread are great for dipping in the broth. They keep things interesting with their crunch against the soup’s smoothness. Don’t forget, garlic bread or cornbread can also be tasty choices. They bring out the soup’s flavors.
Side Dishes
To make your meal complete, add sides that balance the soup. A garden salad with a light dressing adds something fresh. It brings a new taste and texture too.
Roasted veggies, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, sweeten the soup’s flavor. They also give the meal a savory boost. For a bigger meal, try it with a baked potato. Or, a quinoa salad can introduce different tastes and textures.
| Bread Pairings | Side Dishes |
|---|---|
| Buttery Rolls | Crisp Garden Salad |
| Crusty French Bread | Roasted Vegetables |
| Garlic Bread | Baked Potato |
| Homemade Cornbread | Quinoa Salad |
Choosing the right bread and sides makes cream of chicken soup even better. These options help create a full and satisfying meal. Adding them to your dinner plan makes the whole experience more enjoyable.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Keeping your cream of chicken soup fresh means knowing how to store and reheat it properly. Stick to the right methods to keep the soup’s taste and quality. This way, you can enjoy it later just as much.
Refrigeration Tips
Use an airtight container when putting chicken soup in the fridge. This keeps it from losing its flavor and stops any bad stuff from getting in. The USDA says this soup is good in the fridge for three to five days. The same goes for homemade cream of chicken soup. It can stay fresh for about five days. If you want to store it longer, like up to three months, freezing is your best bet. Keep it at 0 degrees Fahrenheit and it will stay tasty.
Reheating Methods
Reheating soup can be done in a few ways. Doing it on the stovetop is often best. Heat it gently and stir it now and then to make sure it’s warm all through. If you’re using a microwave, put the soup in a bowl that can go in the microwave. Cover it so it doesn’t make a mess. If the soup is thick, adding some broth or milk can make it just right. Your reheated soup will taste as good as when you first made it.
Follow these soup storage tips for tasty leftovers. You’ll always have a warm, comforting meal ready to go.
Can You Freeze Cream of Chicken Soup?
Freezing cream-based chicken soups often causes them to separate. They can also become grainy when thawing. It’s best to keep these soups in the fridge. If you do freeze it, use it within six to twelve months. For the best taste, consume it fresh or within a week of refrigeration.
When freezing, split the soup into 1 1/4 cup portions. This is about the size of a 10.5-ounce can. Keeping these individual portions makes it easier to use in dishes like casseroles.
Note: Since the soup contains dairy, it cannot be canned.
This is what you get from each serving:
| Calories | 434kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 17g |
| Cholesterol | 72mg |
| Sodium | 2008mg |
| Potassium | 391mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Vitamin A | 897IU |
| Vitamin C | 16mg |
| Calcium | 165mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
This information comes from the update done on April 26, 2023. It confirms that Cream of Chicken Soup can be frozen or stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to freeze it only when you really need to. This is because the texture and taste might change.
Variations of Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
The cream of chicken soup recipe is super versatile. It lets you make all kinds of creative soup ideas. It also helps you make soup that fits your own preferences and dietary needs.
This recipe is a great replacement for canned soup. It’s tastier and better for you. You can make enough to replace two 10.5 oz. cans. Then, you can store it for up to four months. This makes getting meals ready ahead of time easy.
The original soup has about 434 calories. It has 38g of carbs, 9g of protein, and 28g of fat. The ingredients are butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Each serving has 204 calories, 11g of carbs, 4g of protein, and 16g of fat. It also has lots of vitamins and minerals.
Here are some soup recipe variations to consider:
- Flavored Cream Cheeses: Add flavored cream cheeses, like onion and chive, for new tastes.
- Alternative Seasonings: Try different spices to make the soup taste even better, like parsley and marjoram.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use healthier fats like ghee or coconut oil. You can also swap in cornstarch for flour.
- Dry Soup Base Mix: Make a dry soup base mix for easy prep. This mix can keep for 6-12 months. Add broth powder and chicken for a fast meal.
With these creative soup ideas, you can enjoy making and eating soup. There are so many flavors to try.
FAQs About Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
Curious about crafting the perfect cream of chicken soup? We answer common questions for a tasty and satisfying outcome. For the latest nutritional facts, check out these key stats:
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 204 |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sodium | 1401mg |
| Calcium | 100mg |
| Fiber | 0.3g |
Many people ask about swapping ingredients in cream of chicken soup. You can swap butter with ghee, lard, or coconut oil. And, flour can be replaced by tapioca starch, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder.
For those looking for a quick fix, dry soup mixes are a great option. They can last 6-12 months. These mixes often have dry milk powder, potato flakes, and cornstarch. Plus, they come with parsley flakes, dry minced onion, and garlic powder.
Mix these dry ingredients with broth to make different types of soups. For cream of chicken soup, add chicken bouillon. For cream of mushroom, use mushroom powder. And for cream of celery, choose celery powder. If kept in a vacuum-sealed jar, these mixes stay fresh until you need them.
When making it yourself, cream of chicken soup only needs chicken broth, milk, flour, and a specific mix of seasonings. DIY is the equivalent of two cans of store-bought cream of chicken soup. Reviewers give it 4.6 out of 5 stars, according to 102 consumers.
Best Tools and Equipment for Making Cream of Chicken Soup
Creating a creamy chicken soup is easy with the right kitchen tools. These essentials help you cook efficiently, making your meal taste its best.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Good essential cookware makes cooking easier and the food better. Here’s what you need:
- Stock Pot: This pot evenly heats and holds all your soup ingredients well.
- Sharp Knife: Needed for cutting veggies like onions, carrots, and celery quickly.
- Cutting Board: It’s a safe and stable surface for food prep.
- Soup Ladle: Perfect for serving soup neatly and without mess.
Optional Gadgets
Besides the basic cookware, extra gadgets for making soup can be handy. They make cooking easier and more fun:
- Food Processor: Chops vegetables fast, which means less work for you.
- Hand Blender: Blends soup smoothly right in the pot, no need to transfer it.
Adding these tools to your kitchen will make creamy chicken soup turn out great. Enjoy the mix of easy cooking and rich flavors.
| Tool | Purpose | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Pot | Even heating, large capacity | Prevents burning, accommodates all ingredients |
| Sharp Knife | Chopping vegetables | Efficient and precise cuts |
| Cutting Board | Stable prep surface | Safety and convenience |
| Soup Ladle | Serving soup | Neat and easy serving |
| Food Processor | Chopping vegetables | Speeds up prep time |
| Hand Blender | Pureeing soup | Smooth consistency |
Conclusion
The Cream of Chicken Soup recipe combines delightful flavors and textures, perfect for any meal. It’s a wholesome dish that fits many dietary needs, including healthier and vegan options.
To make this, we use juicy chicken thighs, 3 chicken bouillon cubes for flavor, and veggies like celery and carrots. Using low sodium broth keeps the salt levels low. You can also make it lighter by switching cream for milk or using evaporated milk with cornstarch.
This soup has different pasta and herbs, allowing personal touches. Ingredients like Parmesan cheese and garlic cloves add depth. Thus, making it a beloved and versatile family recipe.
Making Cream of Chicken Soup at home is both budget-friendly and healthy. The recipe is simple, for cooks of all levels, especially with the right kitchen tools. With its approval and nutritional value, it’s set to be a go-to meal at home, for any gathering.
FAQ
What type of chicken is best for cream of chicken soup?
Bone-less and bone-in chicken both work well. Bone-in chicken gives a richer flavor. Boneless chicken is easier to handle. Rotisserie chicken is a tasty choice for quick cooking.
Can I use low-fat dairy products in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat options like reduced-fat cream cheese and skim milk. This makes the soup healthier. But remember, the taste might not be as creamy.
How do I make a vegan version of this soup?
To make it vegan, use button mushrooms instead of chicken. Use plant-based milk and cream. Add more seasonings to bring out the mushrooms’ natural flavor.
What additional vegetables can I include?
Add vegetables such as corn, celery, and carrots to the soup. They make the dish more colorful. Vegetables also add a nice change of texture.
What common mistakes should I avoid?
Don’t cook the soup for too long or it will get too thick. Add vegetables at the right time. This prevents them from getting too mushy or hard. And, don’t freeze soups with cream or milk.
What are the best bread pairings and side dishes for this soup?
Enjoy this soup with buttery rolls or crusty French bread. A side of salad or roasted veggies completes the meal perfectly.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container. They stay good for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave. Use a bit of broth or milk to adjust the thickness.
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best not to freeze soups with cream. They might get grainy. Try to eat it fresh or store in the fridge for a short time.
How can I thicken the soup effectively?
Make a roux with butter, flour, and milk. This mix keeps the soup creamy. It’s better than using just flour for thickening.
What herbs and spices can enhance the flavor?
Parsley, dill, and Mrs. Dash can make the soup tastier. A little sugar can also boost the flavors.
What tools and equipment are recommended?
You will need a good soup pot and a ladle. A food processor for chopping is helpful, too. A hand blender is nice for pureeing, but not a must.