Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s something magical about a bowl of homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe — it’s soothing, flavorful, and brimming with nostalgia. If you’ve ever longed for a soup that’s both luxuriously creamy and brimming with tender bites of chicken, you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe. The subtle richness and aromatic layers make it the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re warming up on a chilly night or want to elevate your next meal with a classic favorite that always hits the spot.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of pantry staples and a few refrigerator essentials, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a soup that tastes gourmet. Every ingredient in this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe has a special role, and together, they weave a tapestry of heartwarming, home-cooked flavor.

• Chicken breast or thighs: Tender pieces of chicken add protein and soak up all the creamy goodness; thighs offer richer flavor, but breasts work beautifully, too.
• Butter: This helps sauté the vegetables and creates the roux base, contributing to a velvety finish.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the soup and creating that classic creamy texture.
• Onion, celery, and carrots: Known as the “holy trinity,” these aromatic veggies infuse the soup with savory depth and a subtle sweetness.
• Garlic: Just a clove or two gives an irresistible fragrant kick.
• Chicken stock or broth: The backbone of the soup, providing plenty of chicken flavor and body.
• Milk and/or heavy cream: For an ultra-creamy consistency that’s still perfectly balanced.
• Salt and pepper: Taste as you go for a perfectly seasoned soup.
• Fresh parsley: Garnishing with chopped herbs adds color and a fresh finish.

How to Make Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and carrots, then let them gently cook for about five minutes until they’re softened and their natural sweetness starts to shine. Toss in the garlic and sauté for another minute to build foundational flavor that will shine throughout your Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to coat the vegetables. Let it cook for two minutes, just until the raw flour scent fades. This step is key for getting that luscious, creamy texture—think of it as the heart of your soup’s silkiness!

Step 3: Add the Stock and Chicken

Slowly pour in the chicken stock or broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once combined, add your chicken breast or thigh pieces. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cook for around 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together. The soup will start to thicken as it simmers, and the creamiest comfort begins to build.

Step 4: Stir in Milk or Cream

Lower the heat and pour in the milk (or a blend of milk and cream for extra richness). Let it warm through for a few minutes—don’t let it boil at this stage—just enough to marry all the flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed, making sure the seasoning sings.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Finish

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup. Give everything a good stir, then let the soup simmer for another few minutes so every bite is packed with flavor and tenderness. Right before serving, sprinkle in chopped parsley for that fresh, herbaceous lift.

How to Serve Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A swirl of heavy cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or a crack of black pepper all make this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe look as inviting as it tastes. For a little crunch, try topping with homemade croutons or crispy fried onions.

Side Dishes

This soup is delicious alongside warm, crusty bread—perfect for dunking! It also pairs well with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the coziest comfort meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe in bread bowls for a fun and hearty presentation, or ladle it into small mugs as an elegant starter at dinner parties. It even makes a delightful base for casseroles or pot pies—just spoon it over cooked rice or pasta and bake with a cheesy topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover soup can be cooled to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days; the flavors actually deepen and become more delicious after a day or two!

Freezing

If you want to keep your Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe even longer, you’re in luck: it freezes beautifully. Just portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. If the soup separates slightly or thickens up in the fridge, just add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid boiling hard to keep the soup smooth.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will add wonderful depth. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of simmering so it stays moist and tender.

Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?

Definitely—replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. The result will be just as thick and satisfying.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Mushrooms, peas, or even diced potatoes make excellent additions to this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe. Feel free to use what you have on hand for extra flavor and texture.

What milk is best for creaminess?

Whole milk gives a great creamy result, but a splash of heavy cream takes it to another level. For a lighter soup, 2 percent or even unsweetened almond milk can work, though it will be less rich.

Can I use this soup in casseroles?

Definitely! The Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe doubles as a fantastic base for casseroles, pot pies, or chicken and rice bakes. Homemade always beats canned in both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful meal that’s sure to warm both heart and home, this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe truly delivers. It’s easy enough for weekdays, nourishing for the soul, and always a hit with family and friends. Go ahead, fill your kitchen with the aroma of something special—once you taste that first spoonful, you’ll see why this recipe is a classic worth repeating!

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