If you’re living gluten-free or cooking for someone who is, you know how tricky it can be to find gluten-free versions of pantry staples—especially cream of chicken soup. This classic comfort food ingredient is often thickened with wheat flour, making most canned versions off-limits. But the good news? You can easily make your own gluten free cream of chicken soup at home, and it’s just as creamy, flavorful, and versatile as the original.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make a delicious gluten free cream of chicken soup from scratch. Plus, I’ll share tips to customize it and ideas for using it in your favorite recipes.
Why Make Gluten Free Cream of Chicken Soup at Home?
Most store-bought cream of chicken soups contain wheat flour or other gluten-containing thickeners, so they’re not safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Even some gluten-free labeled brands may have cross-contamination risks or additives you want to avoid.
Making your own soup means:
– You control the ingredients and avoid gluten completely.
– It’s fresher and free from preservatives.
– You can adjust the flavor and thickness to your liking.
– It’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients to make a classic gluten free cream of chicken soup:
– Butter (about 2-3 tablespoons)
– Onion (finely diced)
– Garlic (minced)
– Gluten free flour or cornstarch (about 1/4 cup or 3 tablespoons)
– Chicken broth or stock (4 cups)
– Milk (1 cup, or dairy-free alternative)
– Cooked chicken (shredded, about 1 cup)
– Heavy cream (optional, about 1/2 cup for extra richness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic powder and onion powder (for extra flavor)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
You can use cornstarch, rice flour, or a gluten free flour blend as your thickener. Cornstarch often gives the smoothest texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the gluten free flour or cornstarch over the softened onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth paste.
3. Add the Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Add Milk and Chicken
Stir in the milk and shredded cooked chicken. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to meld flavors.
5. Finish with Cream
If you want a richer soup, stir in the heavy cream and heat through for 5 more minutes.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Cream of Chicken Soup
– Use good quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
– Cook the roux well to avoid a raw flour taste.
– Adjust thickness by adding more broth if too thick, or simmering longer if too thin.
– Add cooked chicken last to keep it tender.
– Try dairy-free milk and cream if you want a dairy-free version.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Creative Ways to Use Your Gluten Free Cream of Chicken Soup
Once you’ve mastered this homemade gluten free cream of chicken soup, it’s incredibly versatile:
– Use it as a base for casseroles like green bean or hash brown casserole.
– Stir it into pasta or rice dishes for creamy texture.
– Use it as a sauce for vegetables or chicken.
– Add herbs or spices to customize it for different recipes.
Making gluten free cream of chicken soup at home is easier than you think and tastes so much better than canned versions. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a creamy, comforting soup that fits perfectly into your gluten free lifestyle. Give it a try—you might never go back to canned again!