If you’ve ever wondered how to make cream of chicken soup from scratch, you’re in the right place! This classic soup is a kitchen staple, perfect for comforting meals and as a base for casseroles and other dishes. Making it at home is easier than you think, and the result is a rich, creamy, and flavorful soup that beats any canned version. Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide on how to make cream of chicken soup that you’ll love.
Why Make Cream of Chicken Soup at Home?
Store-bought canned cream of chicken soup often contains preservatives, excess salt, and artificial additives. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients, customize the flavors, and enjoy a fresher, healthier option. Plus, homemade cream of chicken soup has a smooth texture and a savory taste that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make cream of chicken soup, you’ll need simple pantry staples:
– Butter – 4 tablespoons
– All-purpose flour – about ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons
– Chicken broth – 2 cups (homemade or store-bought)
– Milk – 1 cup (whole milk preferred for creaminess, but any kind works)
– Seasonings – celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper (about 1/3 teaspoon each)
– Optional – chicken bouillon cube or Better Than Bouillon for extra flavor
– Cooked chicken – finely diced (optional, for added texture and protein)
These ingredients combine to create a roux-based creamy soup that’s thick, flavorful, and versatile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Milk
To avoid lumps or curdling when adding milk, warm it slightly in the microwave for about 45 seconds. This step helps temper the milk and ensures a smooth soup.
2. Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it melt completely and start to foam, which usually takes about 3 minutes. Then, gradually whisk in the flour. Keep whisking continuously for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture resembles wet sand in texture. This cooking step removes the raw flour taste and thickens the base of your soup.
3. Add Chicken Broth Gradually
Remove the pan from heat briefly and add about one-third of the chicken broth to the roux, whisking well to combine. Repeat with another third, whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth. Finally, add the remaining broth along with the chicken bouillon (if using), warm milk, and all your seasonings. Whisk everything together until fully incorporated.
4. Cook Until Thickened
Return the saucepan to medium heat and bring the mixture to a near boil, whisking constantly. The soup will start to thicken as it heats. Once it reaches a creamy, thick consistency, remove it from the heat immediately. Remember, it will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
5. Optional: Add Cooked Chicken
If you want a heartier soup, stir in finely diced cooked chicken at this point. This adds texture and protein, making your cream of chicken soup even more satisfying.
6. Strain for Extra Smoothness (Optional)
For an ultra-smooth finish, you can strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve. This step is optional but recommended if you prefer a silky texture.
Tips for Perfect Cream of Chicken Soup
– Whisk continuously throughout the cooking process to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
– Use whole milk or half-and-half for a richer, creamier soup.
– Customize seasonings to your taste. Adding herbs like thyme or celery seed can give your soup a unique flavor twist.
– Make extra — this recipe yields enough to substitute for two 10.5-ounce cans of condensed cream of chicken soup, perfect for casseroles or future meals.
How to Use Your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup
This homemade cream of chicken soup is incredibly versatile. Use it as:
– A base for creamy chicken casseroles
– A comforting soup served with crusty bread
– A sauce for chicken and vegetable dishes
– A creamy addition to pot pies or pasta recipes
Because you control the salt and seasoning, you can tailor it perfectly to your recipes and dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Making cream of chicken soup from scratch is simple, quick, and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you get a delicious, creamy soup that’s free from preservatives and customizable to your taste. Say goodbye to canned soup and hello to homemade comfort!
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious results!