If you’ve ever wondered how to make homemade cream of chicken, you’re in the right place! This comforting, creamy dish is a kitchen staple that’s perfect for soups, casseroles, or just enjoying on its own. Making it at home is easier than you think, and it tastes so much better than the canned versions. Let’s dive into a simple, foolproof recipe that you can whip up in no time.
What Is Cream of Chicken?
Cream of chicken is a rich, velvety sauce or soup base made from chicken broth, milk or cream, and a thickening agent like flour. It’s often used as a base for casseroles, pot pies, or creamy chicken dishes. Homemade cream of chicken is fresher, free of preservatives, and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken broth – 2 1/2 cups (homemade or store-bought)
– Milk – 1 1/2 cups (whole milk or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
– Flour – 3/4 cup (for thickening)
– Seasoning mix – 1 tablespoon (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or poultry seasoning)
These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful base that’s versatile and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Cream of Chicken
1. Heat the Broth and Milk
Start by combining the chicken broth and 1/2 cup of the milk in a large saucepan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. This will be the base of your creamy sauce.
2. Make the Flour Mixture
While the broth heats, whisk the flour and the remaining 1 cup of milk together in a small bowl. Keep whisking until you get a smooth, lump-free mixture. Add your seasoning mix to this blend to infuse flavor right from the start.
3. Combine and Thicken
Slowly pour the flour and milk mixture into the saucepan with the broth. Stir continuously and whisk as the mixture simmers on low heat. Keep whisking for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Remember, it will thicken a bit more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems slightly runny at first.
4. Adjust Seasonings and Serve
Taste your cream of chicken and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. Now your homemade cream of chicken is ready to use in any recipe calling for it!
Tips for Making the Best Homemade Cream of Chicken
– Use good quality chicken broth: The flavor of your cream of chicken depends heavily on the broth. Homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought version works best.
– Whisk continuously: This prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth texture.
– Don’t rush the thickening: Let the sauce simmer gently to develop the perfect creamy consistency.
– Customize your seasoning: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of paprika for extra depth.
Delicious Ways to Use Your Homemade Cream of Chicken
– Chicken casseroles: Use it as a base for creamy chicken and rice or vegetable casseroles.
– Chicken pot pie: Perfect for a rich filling in your favorite pot pie recipe.
– Creamy chicken pasta: Toss with cooked pasta and veggies for a quick dinner.
– Soup base: Add cooked chicken and vegetables for a hearty homemade chicken soup.
Why Make Cream of Chicken at Home?
Making cream of chicken from scratch means no preservatives, no artificial flavors, and you can control the salt and seasoning. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to store in the fridge or freezer for future meals. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves cooking from scratch but wants to save time.
Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of homemade cream of chicken anytime you want with this simple recipe!
Cream of chicken made at home is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare—a perfect addition to your cooking repertoire.