Ah, there’s just something magical about a warm bowl of homemade soup, isn’t there? It wraps you in comfort, like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. My homemade cream of chicken soup recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite go-tos. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma wafting through the house drew everyone in like moths to a flame! As we gathered around the table, I watched them savor each spoonful, and it felt like pure joy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire too!
Ingredients for Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for ease!)
- 1/2 cup celery, diced (adds a lovely crunch and flavor)
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced (sweetness balances the soup beautifully)
- 1/4 cup onion, diced (for that aromatic base)
- 3 tablespoons butter (the richer, the better!)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to create that luscious roux)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade is ideal, but store-bought works too)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that dreamy, creamy texture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (a classic herb for chicken soups)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always taste as you go!)
How to Prepare Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
Ready to create a bowl of pure comfort? Let’s get started with the preparation! First, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. It should be bubbling gently; you don’t want it to brown, just melt. Once melted, toss in the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base of your soup!
After the veggies soften, stir in the garlic powder and dried thyme. You’ll want to cook this for just another minute to wake up those spices. Now, here comes the fun part—creating the roux! Sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes. This helps thicken your soup and gives it that luxurious texture. Don’t rush this step; it’s important for a smooth finish!
Now, gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Take your time; this helps prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Next, add your shredded chicken and heavy cream, stirring well to incorporate everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving, which will help everything come together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, celery, and carrots; sauté for 5 minutes until tender.
- Stir in garlic powder and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes to create the roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth; bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken and heavy cream; stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper; simmer for another 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in this recipe is crafting a roux, which is simply a mixture of fat and flour used to thicken sauces and soups. It’s essential to cook the roux until it’s bubbly but not brown, which ensures a smooth texture in your soup. Whisking in the chicken broth gradually is another critical step—this prevents lumps from forming and helps achieve that creamy consistency we all love. Lastly, simmering allows the flavors to deepen and develop, making every spoonful rich and satisfying. Trust me, these techniques are what elevate a simple soup into a comforting masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and flavorful chicken broth creates a luxurious, velvety texture you won’t be able to resist.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in about 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs, making it easy to tailor the soup to your taste preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves a good creamy chicken soup!
- Great for Leftovers: It keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a standalone meal, or pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
Tips for Success
To truly elevate your homemade cream of chicken soup, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, organic chicken and homemade broth will make a noticeable difference in flavor. If you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to use a good quality store-bought broth, but opt for low-sodium versions to control the saltiness.
Consider adding mushrooms for an earthy depth, or throw in some fresh spinach or kale for a nutritional boost! You can also swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may alter the creaminess slightly. If you want a bit of a kick, a dash of cayenne pepper can add a delightful warmth.
Lastly, don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, not only adds color but also brightens up the flavors beautifully. These little touches can transform your soup from good to absolutely unforgettable!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my delicious homemade cream of chicken soup:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you opt for different types of chicken or broth. For a lighter version, consider using lower-fat cream options or reducing the amount of butter. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup, knowing it’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients!
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This homemade cream of chicken soup recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Definitely! You can substitute shredded turkey or even cooked ham for a different twist. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the new protein.
Is there a way to make this soup lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for less butter in the roux. You might also consider adding more vegetables to increase the volume without adding extra calories.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even some flaky biscuits for a complete meal experience. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your homemade cream of chicken soup experience, consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty baguette or some buttery garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness! A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that beautifully complements the richness of the soup. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, flaky biscuits are another fantastic option—just imagine slathering them with butter as you dip them into the soup! These pairings not only enhance the meal but create a cozy dining experience that everyone will love.
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Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe: 7 Simple Steps to Comfort
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and creamy homemade cream of chicken soup that is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté until soft.
- Stir in garlic powder and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add flour, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add cooked chicken and heavy cream. Stir well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Consider adding mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Serve with fresh herbs for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: homemade cream of chicken soup recipe
