Description
This Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and comforting soup perfect as a base for casseroles or enjoyed on its own. Made from scratch using a simple roux, chicken broth, milk, and aromatic seasonings, it avoids canned additives and allows customization with shredded chicken for added protein and texture. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a quick and versatile kitchen staple.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Optional Addition
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Roux: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes golden and bubbly, which forms the base for thickening the soup.
- Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk or heavy cream, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop to allow it to thicken evenly.
- Season: Add the onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt if desired. Stir thoroughly and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the soup has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Add Chicken (Optional): If using, stir in the cooked, shredded chicken into the soup and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors.
- Serve or Store: Serve the cream of chicken soup immediately as a comforting dish or base for other recipes. Alternatively, allow it to cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a lighter soup or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Adjust the amount of salt based on the sodium content of your chicken broth.
- This soup can be used as a base for casseroles or as a dip by thickening slightly.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid curdling the dairy.
- Shredded chicken is optional but adds protein and makes it a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
