Laura Mariano
Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup
Few dishes embody cozy comfort food quite like a steaming bowl of Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup. Unlike the canned versions, which often rely on preservatives and excess sodium, making it from scratch allows you to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients and tailor the flavors to your liking. It’s a recipe that feels nostalgic yet elevated, perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or as a base for casseroles and sauces.
Homemade cream of chicken soup is superior because it’s customizable—you control the richness, the seasoning, and the texture. Whether you prefer a silky smooth broth or a chunkier version with vegetables, this dish adapts easily. Plus, it’s healthier, with fewer additives and more nutrient-dense ingredients.
At its core, the soup combines tender chicken, a creamy broth, and aromatic herbs. Onion, garlic, and celery create a savory foundation, while thyme and parsley add freshness. The result is a velvety, hearty soup that comforts with every spoonful.
The Appeal of Homemade Soups
Homemade soups carry a sense of nostalgia and comfort, often reminding us of family kitchens and cozy meals. Unlike store-bought versions, they give you complete control over ingredients, allowing you to reduce sodium, skip preservatives, and highlight fresh flavors.
Cream of chicken soup is especially versatile—it can be enjoyed on its own, paired with bread or salad, or used as a base for casseroles, sauces, and pot pies. Making it at home ensures a richer, fresher taste and allows you to adjust the creaminess, herbs, and add-ins to suit your preferences.
This adaptability, combined with its comforting flavor, makes homemade cream of chicken soup a staple in many kitchens.
Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Chicken: Savory, hearty protein that anchors the dish.
- Cream: Velvety richness that balances the savory notes.
- Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and celery provide depth and fragrance.
- Herbs: Thyme, parsley, and bay leaf add freshness and subtle complexity.
- Optional extras: Mushrooms for earthiness, carrots for sweetness, or rice for added heartiness.
Together, these elements create a soup that’s creamy, savory, and layered with comforting flavors.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Chicken: Breast, thigh, or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Broth: Homemade or low-sodium store-bought for depth of flavor.
- Cream or milk: Heavy cream, half-and-half, or dairy-free alternatives for richness.
- Flour or cornstarch: Thickening agent to achieve velvety texture.
- Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and celery for savory foundation.
- Herbs: Thyme, parsley, and bay leaf for freshness.
- Optional extras: Mushrooms, carrots, or rice for variety.
Tip: Use a roux (butter + flour cooked together) for a smoother, richer consistency.
Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe | Cozy Comfort Food
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (breast, thigh, or rotisserie), shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (or dairy-free alternative)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp thyme
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup mushrooms, diced carrots, or cooked rice
Instructions
- Cook aromatics: Melt butter in pot. Add onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until softened.
- Make roux: Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Add broth: Slowly whisk in chicken broth. Simmer gently.
- Add chicken: Stir in shredded chicken. Simmer 10 minutes.
- Add cream: Pour in heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
- Season: Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–10 minutes.
- Finish: Remove bay leaf. Stir in parsley.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Tip: Use a roux for a smoother, richer consistency.
- Make-ahead: Store in fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
- Variations: Add mushrooms, carrots, or rice for heartiness. Use coconut milk for dairy-free.
- Serving idea: Pair with crusty bread, biscuits, or use as a base for casseroles and pot pies.
