Welcome to another delicious journey in our culinary adventure! Today, we’re diving into a classic comfort food favorite – Cream of Chicken Soup. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Perfect for cozy nights or as a base for other dishes, our Cream of Chicken Soup is rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is perfect for those who crave hearty, homemade meals that warm the soul. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken and other pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or simply want a bowl of comfort, this recipe is for you.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
- Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 10 minutes.
- Incorporate the Dairy: Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the soup is thick and creamy, about 10 more minutes.
- Add the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Tips and Shortcuts
- Rotisserie Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding your own.
- Blender: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the soup after adding the chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Low-Fat: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk option for a lighter version.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.
Food Pairings
Cream of Chicken Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try serving it with:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Sandwiches: A grilled cheese or turkey sandwich makes a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I freeze Cream of Chicken Soup?
- Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor to the soup.
- How can I make this soup vegetarian?
- Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a plant-based milk and cream substitute. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms or potatoes instead of chicken.
- Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
- Yes, use dairy-free butter, milk, and cream alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.
A Little About the Author
As a high-end food blogger and culinary enthusiast, I take pride in creating recipes that bring joy and comfort to your kitchen. My passion for food is rooted in a desire to share the magic of home-cooked meals with everyone. This Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is one of my favorites, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
