Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Growing up, a warm bowl of soup always felt like a hug on a cold day. I remember my grandmother shuffling around the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, as she made her famous Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup. The aroma filled the house, bringing everyone to the table. Now, every time I make this comforting dish, I’m reminded of those cozy family moments. This thick and creamy soup is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that warms both the stomach and the heart.

What is Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is a rich and creamy dish made primarily from cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and a smooth, flavorful broth. Unlike its canned counterparts, which can be high in sodium and preservatives, homemade versions are customizable and made with quality ingredients right from your kitchen. This decadently smooth soup often serves as both a meal in itself and a base for many casseroles and comfort foods. Preparing it at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring no added fillers or artificial flavors, making it a wholesome choice for your family.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup:

There are many reasons to fall in love with this comforting dish. Here are some highlights:

• Quick and simple to prepare: With minimal prep time, you can have this soup on the table in about 30 minutes.
• Family-friendly meal: Perfect for all ages, even the picky eaters will appreciate the smooth texture and comforting flavors.
• Great for beginners: This easy recipe is perfect for novice cooks looking to build confidence in the kitchen.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a meal or use it as a base for other recipes like casseroles or pot pies.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
6. Add the cooked chicken and heavy cream, heating through but not boiling.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips and Variations:

To enhance your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup, consider these pro tips and variations:

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken: This makes preparation even quicker and adds incredible flavor.
• Add garlic: Sauté minced garlic along with your vegetables for a more robust flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh or dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile.
• For a lighter version, substitute half and half or milk for heavy cream.
• Add more vegetables: Consider incorporating peas, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce can provide a pleasant kick.

How to Serve Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Enjoying your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is easy with these serving suggestions:

• Pair it with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
• Serve it with a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal.
• Consider it as a base for a hearty chicken pot pie by topping it with pastry crust.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a bright finish.
• For a cozy, casual gathering, serve it in mugs for a fun twist on the traditional bowl.

How to Store Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Storing your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. We recommend refrigerating leftovers for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, ensuring to leave space for expansion, and you can keep it for up to three months. When reheating, gradually warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick, to maintain its creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup offers a comforting and nutritious option, with each serving containing approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g

Please note, values will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. It’s always best to calculate based on your exact recipe.

FAQs Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

1. Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, but it may alter the texture slightly. Be sure to drain and rinse it before adding.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just remember to reheat gently.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
You can substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to adjust the amount accordingly.

4. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is an excellent alternative for a lighter version or to accommodate vegetarian diets.

Conclusion

Making Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a beloved dish that can become a staple in your kitchen. With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s bound to please everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and whip up this comforting soup. Try this Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup, and share your experience with friends and family; they’ll surely appreciate the effort and love that go into this delightful dish!

Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

A rich and creamy homemade soup that warms the heart and satisfies the stomach, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Soup, Starter

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used as an alternative.
• 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half and half for a lighter version.
• 1/4 cup flour Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
6. Add the cooked chicken and heavy cream, heating through but not boiling.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, experiment with herbs or add garlic along with the vegetables. Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to three months.