Cream of chicken soup is a versatile pantry staple that adds rich flavor and creamy texture to countless recipes—from casseroles to sauces and comforting soups. But did you know you can easily make your own homemade cream of chicken? It’s fresher, tastier, and free from the preservatives found in canned versions. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple!
Let’s dive into how you make cream of chicken from scratch with easy ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you want a condensed soup substitute or a creamy sauce base, this guide has you covered.
What Is Cream of Chicken?
Cream of chicken is a thick, creamy soup or sauce made with chicken broth, milk or cream, and a thickening agent like flour. It’s often seasoned with garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. The result is a velvety, comforting mixture that enhances dishes with a mild chicken flavor and smooth texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients you’ll need to make cream of chicken at home:
– Butter (for richness and flavor)
– Flour (to thicken the soup)
– Chicken broth (the base of the soup)
– Milk or heavy cream (for creaminess)
– Seasonings such as garlic powder, poultry seasoning, celery salt, salt, and pepper
These simple pantry staples come together to create a delicious homemade cream of chicken that you can use right away or store for later.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cream of Chicken
Step 1: Make the Roux
Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and develop a nutty flavor. This roux is essential as it thickens your cream of chicken.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it cook for a couple of minutes until it starts to thicken. Then add your seasonings—garlic powder, poultry seasoning, celery salt, white pepper, and salt—to infuse the soup with flavor.
Step 3: Make It Creamy
Next, whisk in the milk or heavy cream and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the mixture is smooth and thickened to your liking. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step ensures the soup becomes luxuriously creamy.
Tips for Perfect Cream of Chicken
– Use good quality chicken broth: Homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought version will give the best flavor.
– Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps and keeps the soup silky smooth.
– Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a splash more milk or broth. If too thin, cook a little longer to reduce it.
– Season to taste: Don’t be shy with seasoning; it makes all the difference.
Variations and Uses
Homemade cream of chicken isn’t just for soup bowls. Here are some creative ways to use it:
– Casseroles: Use it as a creamy binder in chicken and rice casseroles.
– Sauces: Pour over cooked chicken breasts or thighs for a quick creamy sauce.
– Pot pies: Use as the base for a rich filling in chicken pot pies.
– Soups: Add vegetables and shredded chicken for a hearty chicken soup.
You can also customize your cream of chicken by adding sautéed onions, garlic, or herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
Quick Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe you can try right now:
Ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 4 tablespoons flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon celery salt
– Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add chicken broth, whisking constantly.
- Add garlic powder, poultry seasoning, celery salt, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in milk or cream and simmer for 5 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning and serve or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why Make Cream of Chicken at Home?
Making cream of chicken yourself means no preservatives or unnecessary additives. It tastes fresher and you can control the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. Plus, it’s quick—ready in about 15 minutes—and can be stored for later use. It’s a great way to elevate your cooking with a homemade touch.
Cream of chicken is a simple yet essential recipe that every home cook should have in their arsenal. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a creamy, flavorful base that enhances countless dishes. So next time a recipe calls for cream of chicken, skip the can and make it fresh—you’ll taste the difference!