Say goodbye to store-bought cans and hello to the most delicious, homemade cream of chicken soup recipe you’ll ever make! This isn’t just a basic soup; it’s a flavorful, versatile base that far surpasses anything from a can. Whether you need it as a foundational ingredient for casseroles or a comforting bowl all on its own, this recipe delivers. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and freezes beautifully for future use.
Why You’ll Love This Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
This incredible cream of chicken soup recipe offers so many benefits beyond its amazing taste. You’ll quickly see why it becomes a kitchen staple.
- Healthier Alternative: Control ingredients, reducing sodium and unwanted additives found in store-bought versions.
Making soup from scratch allows you to manage the amount of sodium and avoid artificial additives often present in canned versions, as highlighted by health experts. Controlling sodium in homemade soup can contribute to a healthier diet.
- Rich, Authentic Flavor: Experience a truly comforting, savory taste that only homemade can provide.
- Quick and Simple: With minimal steps, you can have this creamy base ready in about 15 minutes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s super freezer-friendly, making future meal creations a breeze.
- Highly Versatile: Use it as a direct substitute for condensed soup in countless casseroles, stews, and gravies.
- Adjustable: Easily tweak ingredients to fit dietary needs, such as gluten-free or dairy-free options.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your luscious homemade chicken soup base. Each component plays a crucial role in building its rich flavor profile.
4 tablespoons butter
½ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 chicken bouillon cube (or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon, optional)
1 cup milk (whole milk is preferred for richness, but any kind works)
⅓ teaspoon EACH: celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper
Notes & Substitutions
Enhance your creamy chicken soup even further with these simple adjustments and notes.
Adding a chicken bouillon cube or a teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon significantly boosts the savory chicken flavor. For a lower sodium option, choose low-sodium chicken broth and bouillon, and adjust the added salt to taste. You can easily make this a gluten-free cream of chicken soup recipe by swapping regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened plain non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, and a dairy-free butter alternative.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools for this easy homemade chicken soup. Basic kitchen items are all it takes to get started.
You’ll need a medium saucepan, a sturdy whisk, and reliable measuring cups and spoons. A fine mesh strainer is an optional tool that provides an ultra-smooth consistency if you desire.
Instructions
Creating this flavorful cream of chicken soup recipe is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly smooth and creamy result every time. Remember, continuous whisking is key to prevent lumps.
- Prepare the Milk: First, microwave the milk for 45 seconds to temper it. This simple step helps prevent curdling and ensures a smoother soup base when added to the hot roux. Set it aside.
- Melt Butter: Next, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to fully melt and start to foam, which typically takes about 3 minutes.
- Create the Roux: Gradually add the flour to the melted butter. Whisk continuously for 3-5 minutes until the mixture resembles wet sand. This process cooks out the raw flour taste. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add Broth Gradually: Pour in one-third of the chicken broth and whisk vigorously until fully combined and smooth. Add another third of the broth, whisking well after each addition.
- Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Now, add the remaining chicken broth, the chicken bouillon cube (if using), the warm milk, and all the seasonings (celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper). Whisk continuously until everything is well incorporated.
- Thicken the Soup: Return the saucepan to medium heat. Bring the mixture to a near boil, whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the soup begins to get very thick. Immediately remove it from the heat once it reaches the desired consistency.
- Final Thicken: The soup will continue to thicken as it stands. This homemade creamy chicken soup is almost ready!
- Strain (Optional): For an exceptionally smooth consistency, carefully pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer. This step removes any tiny lumps that might remain.
- Use or Store: Your homemade cream of chicken soup recipe is now ready! Use it immediately in your favorite recipes or prepare it for storage. This recipe yields enough to substitute two 10.5-ounce cans of condensed soup.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect creamy consistency for your homemade chicken soup is easy with these expert tips. Keep these in mind as you make your cream of chicken soup recipe.
Always whisk continuously, especially when adding flour and liquids, to prevent lumps. Tempering the milk by warming it slightly helps prevent it from curdling when added to the hot roux. Cook the roux for at least 3 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. For an even deeper, nuttier flavor, slightly brown your butter before adding the flour. If your soup turns out too thin, whisk a tablespoon of flour into a tablespoon of cold water, then slowly stir this slurry into the simmering soup until thickened. If it’s too thick, simply whisk in a little more warm milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This homemade chicken soup base is incredibly versatile, making it a valuable addition to your recipe arsenal.
Serving Suggestions
You can use this creamy chicken soup directly as a substitute for condensed cream of chicken soup in nearly any recipe; one batch equals two 10.5-ounce cans. Incorporate it into your favorite casseroles, stews, and gravies for rich flavor and creamy texture. It also makes an excellent, comforting base for a standalone chicken noodle soup or a creamy chicken vegetable soup.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover homemade cream of chicken soup recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, whisking frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick. Canning this particular recipe is not recommended due to its dairy content and lack of tested safety guidelines.
Following proper food safety guidelines is important when storing homemade soups to prevent spoilage and ensure they remain safe to eat. The Iowa State University Extension provides helpful information on safely storing homemade soups.
Recipe Variations
Get creative with your creamy chicken soup! Add sautéed mushrooms or finely diced celery along with the broth for extra depth and texture. Stir in cooked, shredded chicken during the final steps to create a hearty chicken soup. Experiment with different herbs like dried thyme, rosemary, or sage for a unique flavor profile. For a little kick, increase the amount of black pepper or add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutrition Information
Making your own creamy chicken soup allows for better control over ingredients and nutrition.
The estimated nutritional values for one serving of this homemade cream of chicken soup recipe are:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Total Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 4g |
Please note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation. Homemade versions typically have less sodium and fewer artificial ingredients than their canned counterparts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Got questions about this simple yet delicious cream of chicken soup recipe? We’ve got answers!
Can I make this cream of chicken soup gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You sure can! Use a dairy-free butter alternative and unsweetened, plain non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
Why is my soup lumpy?
Lumps often occur from not whisking continuously when adding flour or liquids. Ensure you whisk thoroughly to create a smooth roux and prevent lumps.
Can I add actual chicken pieces to this soup?
Yes, you can! Stir in 1-2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken during the last step of the cooking process to make it a heartier chicken soup.
Conclusion
This easy homemade cream of chicken soup recipe is a game-changer for any home cook. Its superior flavor, healthy ingredients, and incredible versatility make it a staple you’ll turn to again and again. Ditch the cans and embrace the rich, comforting taste that only a homemade version can offer. Give this simple recipe a try today and elevate your cooking! Share your creations and thoughts in the comments below!
