If you’re yearning for a cozy, flavorful dish that wraps you in comfort with every spoonful, look no further than this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe. It’s the ultimate homemade classic that combines tender shredded chicken with a luscious, creamy broth, seasoned perfectly with herbs and a touch of paprika. This soup is not just simple to make but also incredibly satisfying, delivering warmth and nourishment in every bowl. Whether you’re making it for a chilly evening or to impress friends with a heartfelt recipe, this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe will become your go-to whenever you need a taste of home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating its rich taste and perfectly creamy texture. From the aromatic sautéed onions to the silky heavy cream, every element is essential to bring this comforting soup to life.
- Butter: Acts as the flavorful base for sautéing onions and garlic, adding richness.
- Onion: Provides natural sweetness and depth when cooked until soft.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle kick of aromatic warmth that enhances the savory profile.
- All-purpose flour: Used to create the roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
- Chicken broth: The soul of the soup, bringing savory chicken flavor and moisture.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Delivers tender texture and protein, making it hearty.
- Milk: Balances the soup’s richness with creamy smoothness.
- Heavy cream: Boosts velvety creaminess, making the soup decadently rich.
- Salt: Enhances all other flavors, ensuring a perfectly seasoned finish.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat that complements the creaminess.
- Dried thyme: Infuses subtle herbal notes for depth and fragrance.
- Paprika: Provides warmth and a hint of color to brighten the dish.
How to Make Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat until it’s fragrant and shimmering. Toss in your finely chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and stir for a quick 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning. These simple steps set the savory foundation for your soup, filling your kitchen with irresistible smells.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will thicken the soup later on. It’s important to keep stirring so the flour doesn’t brown or clump, ensuring your broth will be perfectly smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it slightly thickens. This simmering step helps develop the flavors while prepping the soup’s base for the creamy additions.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Cream
Stir in the cooked shredded chicken followed by the milk and heavy cream. These ingredients create that luscious, velvety texture you want in a Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe. Don’t rush—allow the soup to absorb all these rich flavors and heat gently.
Step 5: Season and Final Simmer
Season the soup with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. These spices transform this humble soup into a flavorful masterpiece. Let it simmer gently for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches the perfect creamy consistency and is heated through.
How to Serve Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra cream or a sprinkle of crispy croutons can add the perfect contrast in texture. Garnishes make this comforting soup feel extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic toast, perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also balance the richness of the soup for a well-rounded meal that satisfies the senses.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe in charming soup tureens or rustic bowls to elevate the experience. You might even fill hollowed-out mini bread bowls for a fun, edible presentation that impresses guests at any casual dinner party or family gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to keep it fresh and safe for later enjoyment.
Freezing
Though this soup has cream, it freezes well if you use heavy cream instead of milk or add it after thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You may notice a slight change in texture, but a good whisk or blend can bring it back to creamy perfection.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating can help restore its original smooth texture, making it taste freshly made once again.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken in the Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken is a fantastic way to save time and add great flavor to this soup. Just shred it finely before adding.
Is this Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe gluten-free?
It can be, if you substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This swap won’t change the deliciousness, just ensures it’s safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Carrots, celery, or peas are excellent additions that add texture and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion or add during the simmering stage.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter soup, you can substitute heavy cream with more milk or half-and-half, though the soup will be less rich. Coconut milk is an interesting dairy-free alternative with a slightly different flavor.
How can I make this soup thicker?
Cooking the roux a bit longer before adding broth or simmering the soup a little longer will thicken it naturally. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup before adding chicken to enhance creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe that warms both the heart and the belly. This easily prepared and deeply satisfying soup is perfect for any day you crave simple comfort with rich flavor. I encourage you to dive in, dust off your pot, and give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite soul-soothing classic.
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Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy and comforting Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is perfect for a cozy meal. Made with butter, onions, garlic, a rich roux, and shredded chicken, this soup is thickened with milk and cream, flavored with herbs and spices, and cooked on the stovetop for a smooth, hearty texture.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Cook Onion: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the soup.
- Add Chicken Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, making sure the mixture becomes smooth.
- Simmer the Base: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Chicken and Dairy: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, milk, and heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
- Season the Soup: Add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Final Simmer: Simmer the soup gently for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is creamy and fully heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the hot cream of chicken soup into bowls and serve immediately for a warm and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend the soup before adding shredded chicken.
- Add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and texture.
- Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
