If you’ve ever reached for a can of cream of chicken soup to add that comforting, creamy touch to casseroles, soups, or sauces, you might be surprised to learn how easy and rewarding it is to make it yourself from scratch. Homemade cream of chicken soup is not only tastier but also free from preservatives and mysterious additives. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and perfect for elevating your favorite dishes.
Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide on how to make cream of chicken soup from scratch, with easy-to-follow instructions and tips to get that smooth, rich texture every time.
What Is Cream of Chicken Soup?
Cream of chicken soup is a thick, creamy base made from chicken broth, milk, flour, and seasonings. It’s often used as a condensed soup in recipes, meaning it’s thick and concentrated, perfect for mixing into casseroles, sauces, and other comfort foods. The homemade version is just as simple as the canned kind but with fresher ingredients and better flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients to make about two cans’ worth of cream of chicken soup:
– Butter (about 4 tablespoons)
– All-purpose flour (around ½ cup)
– Chicken broth (2 cups)
– Milk (1 cup, whole milk preferred for creaminess)
– Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt (each about ⅓ teaspoon)
– Optional: chicken bouillon cube or chicken base for extra flavor
These simple pantry staples come together to create a creamy, flavorful soup base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make a Roux (Butter + Flour Base)
Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt completely and begin to foam, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Then, gradually whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture looks like wet sand and is bubbling but not browned. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and thickens the soup later.
2. Add Chicken Broth Gradually
Remove the pan from heat briefly and slowly add about one-third of the chicken broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Repeat with another third, whisking well each time. Then add the remaining broth along with the chicken bouillon or base if using. This gradual addition ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
3. Temper and Add Milk
Warm the milk slightly in the microwave for about 45 seconds to prevent curdling. Slowly whisk the warm milk into the broth and roux mixture. Keep whisking continuously to combine everything smoothly.
4. Season and Simmer
Add your seasonings—salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and celery salt. Return the pan to medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while whisking constantly. The soup will thicken as it heats, usually within a few minutes. Once thickened to a creamy consistency, remove from heat.
Tips for Perfect Cream of Chicken Soup
– Whisk continuously: This prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth texture.
– Warm your milk: Tempering milk helps avoid curdling when it hits the hot roux.
– Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk. If too thin, simmer a bit longer.
– Strain for extra smoothness: Running the soup through a fine mesh sieve can give you that ultra-smooth finish if desired.
– Make it your own: Feel free to tweak seasonings or add fresh herbs like parsley for a personal touch.
How to Use Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup
This homemade version works just like the canned variety but tastes fresher and cleaner. Use it in:
– Classic casseroles like chicken and rice or green bean casserole
– Creamy soups by adding vegetables and shredded chicken
– Sauces or gravies to add richness and flavor
– Any recipe calling for condensed cream of chicken soup as a direct substitute (one batch equals about two 10.5-ounce cans).
Why Make Cream of Chicken Soup from Scratch?
– Healthier: No preservatives, MSG, or excess sodium.
– Customizable: Control the flavors and ingredients.
– Cost-effective: Uses basic pantry staples.
– Fresh flavor: Tastes better than canned.
– Versatile: Use in multiple dishes or as a soup base.
Making cream of chicken soup from scratch is surprisingly simple and can elevate your home cooking with fresh, wholesome flavor. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a creamy, delicious base ready to enhance all your favorite comfort foods.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the tasty results!
Homemade cream of chicken soup is easy, fresh, and perfect for any recipe needing that creamy touch. Give it a try and say goodbye to canned soup forever!