Description
This homemade cream of chicken soup is a rich and comforting recipe perfect for enhancing casseroles, casseroles, or enjoying as a creamy, hearty soup. Made from a simple roux base with chicken broth, milk, and flavorful seasonings, it’s easy to prepare in just 15 minutes and can be customized with cooked shredded chicken for extra protein and texture.
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
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Roux: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes golden in color and bubbly, ensuring the raw flour taste cooks out.
- Add the Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and whole milk or heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, continuing to stir to maintain smoothness.
- Season: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt if using. Let the soup cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Chicken (Optional): Fold in the cooked shredded chicken into the thickened soup and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through and integrate flavors well.
- Serve or Store: Serve the cream of chicken soup immediately while hot, or allow it to cool before transferring into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for later use.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a lighter soup or heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.
- Shredded chicken is optional but adds protein and makes the soup more filling.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt, based on the saltiness of the chicken broth used.
- This soup works perfectly as a base for casseroles or comfort food recipes.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave to avoid curdling.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
