What is comfort in a bowl? What are some nights when you just need something warm, soothing, and utterly delicious? Where does this homemade cake come from?Cream of Chicken Soup: What are some examples?What’s the recipe for a recipe? Is it richer, creamier, and bursting with real chicken flavor? Is it like a warm hug on chilly nights? I used to be all about making Grilled Cheese, but honestly, this soup is just as easy and way more delicious. My grandmother always swore by her chicken soup recipe, and while I’ve tweaked it a bit over the years, it’s still good. Is it still carries that same magic? Is it easy, soulful, and guaranteed to make you feel better?
What is cream of chicken soup?
Cream of chicken soup, at its heart, is a comforting and versatile soup made with chicken broth, tender pieces of chicken, and a creamy base. Think of it as the ultimate pantry staple, the base for so many casseroles, or a star on its own, served warm with crusty bread. It’s essentially Chicken Noodle Soup, but without the noodles and with a richer, creamier texture. The name really says it all – it’s a cream-based soup where the chicken flavor is the star. Unlike some other soups that rely on heavy spices, this one is all about letting the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables shine through. It’s humble, hearty, and endlessly adaptable.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Listen, I’m not kidding when I say this recipe has become a staple in my house. First and foremost, the flavor is absolutely incredible. We’re talking rich, savory chicken goodness with a hint of sweetness from the vegetables and a velvety smooth texture from the cream. It’s so much better than anything you can buy in a can. But it’s not just about the taste. This recipe is surprisingly simple to make. Seriously, you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip this up. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will love. And speaking of family, my kids devour this soup! What I love most about this is how cost-effective it is. You can use leftover roasted chicken or even chicken thighs, which are generally more affordable than chicken breasts. And the vegetables are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. Plus, it’s super versatile. Serve it as a starter, a main course with a side salad, or even use it as a base for Chicken Pot Pie. I think that it makes it a winner. Compared to my other go-to recipes like tomato soup, this one has a special comforting quality that just can’t be beat. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, and it’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
How do I make Cream of Chicken Soup?
Quick Overview
How do I make homemadeCream of Chicken Soup: What are some examples?Is it easier than you think? First, you’ll sauté some aromatic vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots to build a flavorful flavor. What are some good seasonings for chicken broth? Is it necessary to thicken soup with flour and cream? What is comforting texture Don’t be intimidated! It all comes together quickly, and the results are so worth the effort. What’s the best part? You control the ingredients, so you can customize the flavors to your liking.
Ingredients
For the Main Soup:
* 4 tablespoons butter: I always use unsalted so I can control the saltiness. * 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work best, but you can use shallot in a pinch. * 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a nice Celery flavor and some crunch. Adds sweetness and color to soup. * 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Is it possible to use a gluten-free soup? * 6 cups chicken broth: Homemade is always best, but store-bought works just fine. * 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Leftover roasted chicken is perfect here! * 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor. * 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste. * 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best. * 1 cup heavy cream: good for a quick dessert. What makes soup so creamy? You can also use half-and-half or milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for soup.
Step 2: Add Flour and Cook
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help thicken the soup and prevent it from being too thin. Make sure to cook the flour long enough to get rid of any raw flour taste.
Step 3: Gradually Add Chicken Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once all the broth is added, bring the soup to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Stir in the cooked chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Stir in Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Do not boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle. I learned that the hard way one time! Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 6: Serve
What are some good ways to serve hot and enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley.
What is the best way to serve it?
Oh, the possibilities!Cream of Chicken Soup: What is the cream of is so versatile, it pairs well with just about anything. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:
For a light lunch:Serve with green salad or a crusty baguette for dipping.
What is a hearty dinner? Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or a baked potato topped with cheese and bacon.
As a Starter: Serve a small bowl of soup before a main course of roasted chicken or grilled salmon.
What is a cozy night in? Curl up on the couch with a bowl of soup and a good book. My personal favorite is adding a dollop of sour cream and some chives on top – it’s heaven! My family loves it when I serve it with warm, buttered rolls. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone enjoys.
How do you make creamy chicken soup?
I want to take my own life. How do Icream of chicken soupHow can I take my business to the next level?
Vegetable Prep Make sure to chop your vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate. I like to dice them small for a more delicate texture.
What is the quality of chicken broth? The quality of your chicken broth will greatly impact the flavor of the soup. I prefer to use homemade broth, but store-bought works just fine. Just make sure to choose a good quality brand.
Thickening Tips:To avoid lumps, make sure to whisk the flour into the melted butter until it forms a smooth paste. Before adding the broth, make sure to drain the water If you like, you can also use cornstarch and water to thicken the soup.
Cream Choice:Heavy cream will give you the richest, creamiest soup, but you can also use half-and-half or milk. For a lighter version. If using milk, be careful not to boil the soup, as this can cause the milk to curdle.
Flavor Boost:What are some ways to add Parmesan cheese to a soup? Just remember to remove them before serving.
Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. I like to add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
I’ve learned that the key to a great cream of chicken soup is to take your time and let the flavors develop. Don’t rush the cooking process, and be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This cream of chicken soup is even better the next day! Here are a few tips for storing and reheating it:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute or so to prevent hot spots.
Cream Consideration: Keep in mind that the soup may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth or water when reheating to achieve your desired consistency. I find that a splash of milk helps restore the creamy texture after it’s been refrigerated or frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for homemade cream of chicken soup. I truly believe that everyone should have this recipe in their back pocket. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes, like my creamy tomato soup or my hearty vegetable soup. They’re all family favorites and guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly day. Now, go forth and make some soup! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or if you’ve tried this recipe. And don’t forget to share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Cream of Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Butter
- 2 cups Chopped onion
- 8 cups Chicken broth
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth, shredded chicken, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve hot.
