Irresistible Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe – Better Than Canned!

Cream of chicken soup is a classic comfort food loved by many, offering warmth and hearty flavor in every spoonful. Unlike canned versions packed with preservatives and artificial ingredients, this homemade recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients you likely already have. It’s free from pork, salami, and any alcoholic ingredients, making it wholesome and family-friendly. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal, a cozy remedy on a cold day, or a base for casseroles and pot pies, this recipe delivers rich, creamy goodness without the extra additives. Plus, it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep or freezing for later. Get ready to enjoy a fresh, comforting bowl of soup that feels like home.

Why You’ll Love This

This homemade cream of chicken soup stands out because it’s fresh, natural, and customizable. You control every ingredient, ensuring no hidden preservatives or unwanted flavors like pork or alcohol. It’s creamy and flavorful but light enough for any meal. Kids and adults alike enjoy its smooth texture and savory taste. You can easily add vegetables or swap ingredients to fit your diet or preferences. Plus, it’s affordable and makes plenty of leftovers that reheat beautifully. Whether as a meal on its own or a base for other dishes, this soup is a versatile, satisfying staple that’s sure to become a family favorite.

What You’ll Need

To make this delicious homemade cream of chicken soup, you’ll need simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create a rich and comforting dish. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced — Use leftover roasted chicken or quickly cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth — Opt for a good quality broth or make your own for deeper flavor.
• 1 cup whole milk — For a creamier texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like oat or almond milk if preferred.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter — This adds richness to the base.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour — To thicken the soup and give it that classic creamy consistency.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped — For a subtle sweetness and savory depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced — Adds warmth and aroma.
• 2 medium carrots, diced — For a touch of sweetness and color.
• 2 stalks celery, diced — Adds freshness and crunch.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme — A lovely herb that complements the chicken.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste — Adjust seasoning to your preference.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a wholesome, comforting soup that tastes far better than anything from a can.

How to Make homemade cream of chicken soup

Making homemade cream of chicken soup is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and flavorful soup:

1. Prepare the chicken: If not using leftover cooked chicken, cook 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat with a pinch of salt and pepper until cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let cool, then shred or dice.
2. Cook the vegetables: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften (about 5-7 minutes). Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the roux: Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This will thicken the soup.
4. Add broth and milk: Gradually whisk in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, making sure no lumps form. Then add 1 cup whole milk, stirring constantly.
5. Simmer and season: Add 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the soup thickens, about 10 minutes.
6. Add chicken: Stir in the cooked chicken pieces and heat through for 5 more minutes.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This recipe makes about 6 servings of creamy, comforting homemade cream of chicken soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

You Must Know homemade cream of chicken soup

To make the best cream of chicken soup, a few key tips go a long way. First, choose a good-quality low-sodium chicken broth or homemade broth to control flavor and saltiness. The roux—made from butter and flour—is essential for thickening; cook it just until pale golden to avoid a raw flour taste. Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can substitute with half-and-half or unsweetened plant-based milk if needed.

Seasoning is important: add salt and pepper gradually throughout cooking, tasting as you go, so the soup doesn’t end up too salty or bland. Use fresh veggies like onions, carrots, and celery for sweetness and aroma, but feel free to add others like peas or corn. When cooking chicken, avoid overcooking to keep it tender, and add it near the end to warm through.

Finally, keep the heat moderate after adding dairy to prevent curdling, and stir often. These tips help guarantee a smooth, flavorful soup every time.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Getting your cream of chicken soup just right depends on simple but crucial steps. Start by sautéing fresh onions, carrots, and celery in butter until soft but not browned—this builds flavor. Add garlic last to avoid bitterness. Next, stir in the flour carefully to make a roux and cook it for a couple of minutes.

Slowly whisk in your chicken broth and milk to keep the soup smooth. Simmer gently rather than boiling to prevent dairy from curdling. Add cooked chicken at the end to keep it juicy.

Season the soup in stages and taste before serving, adding herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness if desired. Adjust thickness by simmering longer or adding more liquid. Following these steps helps you make creamy, delicious soup every time.

Add Your Touch

One of the best parts about making homemade cream of chicken soup is how easy it is to customize it to your taste and dietary needs. You can keep the classic flavor or get creative with additions that suit your mood or what you have in your kitchen.

For extra veggies, try adding peas, corn, diced potatoes, or even mushrooms. These not only boost flavor but also add texture and nutrition. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be stirred in at the end to brighten the soup and give it a fresh, aromatic touch.

If you want a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle kick without overpowering the soup. For a dairy-free version, swap the milk for coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative, adjusting seasonings to keep the balance.

You can also experiment with different proteins—try shredded turkey or even cooked white beans for a vegetarian-friendly version. Top your bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some crispy toasted nuts for texture.

Making this soup your own means you can enjoy it in new ways every time while keeping it comforting and satisfying.

Storing & Reheating

Storing and reheating homemade cream of chicken soup correctly is important to keep its flavor and texture intact. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can last up to 3 months frozen. When freezing, avoid adding dairy if you plan to freeze the soup; instead, add milk or cream when reheating for a fresher taste.

To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or gently warm refrigerated soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.

Avoid reheating on high heat to prevent curdling and maintain a creamy texture. Microwaving is fine but stir often for even heating. Proper storage and reheating ensure your soup stays delicious, just like freshly made.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Making the perfect cream of chicken soup can be easy with a few chef-approved tricks. First, always use fresh ingredients—fresh veggies and good-quality chicken broth are key to deep, natural flavors. When sautéing your aromatics (onion, carrot, celery), don’t rush; cooking them slowly over medium heat brings out sweetness and richness.

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To avoid lumps in your soup, whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly before gradually adding the broth and milk. Constant stirring helps create a smooth, velvety texture. Keep the heat moderate once dairy is added to prevent curdling—avoid boiling.

For added flavor, consider simmering a bay leaf with the broth or finishing with a splash of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. Lastly, don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning as you go, tasting often to get the perfect balance.

These small touches make a big difference in creating a delicious, comforting soup every time.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free butter alternative for the roux. Just avoid sweetened plant milks to keep the savory taste.

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Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! Leftover roasted or boiled chicken works great. Just shred or dice it and add it near the end to warm through.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but it’s best to freeze without the milk or cream. Freeze the broth and chicken mixture, then add dairy when reheating for best texture.

Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: Let it simmer uncovered a little longer, or whisk in a bit more flour mixed with water (a slurry) and cook for a few minutes until thickened.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Peas, corn, green beans, or diced potatoes can be added during cooking for more texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Homemade cream of chicken soup is a simple, comforting dish that beats canned versions in flavor and quality. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can make a rich, creamy soup perfect for any occasion. By using good broth, fresh veggies, and seasoning well, this recipe becomes a kitchen favorite.

Customize it your way with added herbs, veggies, or proteins, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings. Store leftovers properly and reheat gently to keep the creamy texture. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious, homemade classic anytime!