Irresistible Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe You’ll Love

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade cream of chicken soup. It’s warm, comforting, and full of rich flavor that instantly makes you feel at home. Unlike canned versions that are often filled with preservatives and artificial ingredients, this recipe uses real, fresh ingredients for a truly satisfying experience.

Perfect for chilly nights, quick lunches, or cozy family dinners, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. You get tender chicken, creamy broth, and perfectly cooked vegetables—all in one hearty bowl. And because it’s homemade, you control what goes in. That means no pork, no salami, and absolutely no alcohol—just clean, wholesome goodness.

This recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks and satisfying enough for seasoned home chefs. It’s also versatile—serve it solo, pair it with crusty bread, or use it as a base for other meals like casseroles. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this cream of chicken soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This homemade cream of chicken soup

This cream of chicken soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With a creamy, rich texture and flavorful chunks of chicken and veggies, it’s the kind of dish that hits the spot every single time. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or want something filling and satisfying, this soup delivers.

One of the best parts? It’s made with everyday ingredients—no strange additives or hard-to-find items. You can even use leftover cooked chicken, making it a great way to reduce waste and save time. Plus, it’s naturally free from pork and alcohol, so it fits a wide range of diets.

You’ll also love how easy it is to make. It’s a one-pot recipe that comes together in under an hour, perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Want to customize it? Add your favorite herbs or swap in dairy-free cream options—it’s totally flexible.

This soup is affordable, delicious, and loved by kids and adults alike. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a go-to favorite in so many households.

What You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make this creamy chicken soup—just simple, fresh ingredients you likely already have:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup heavy cream)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn

These ingredients create a comforting, creamy soup with no pork, salami, or alcohol—just pure, nourishing goodness.

How to Make homemade cream of chicken soup

1. Sauté veggies: In a large pot, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and flour: Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, then sprinkle in 1/4 cup flour. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
3. Pour in broth: Slowly whisk in 4 cups chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add milk and chicken: Stir in 2 cups milk (or milk + cream), 2 cups cooked chicken, and season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes more.
5. Add optional veggies: Toss in peas or corn in the last 5 minutes if using.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with bread or crackers.

This easy one-pot soup is creamy, hearty, and perfect for any night of the week.

You Must Know

Before diving into your first batch, there are a few key things you should know to make sure your cream of chicken soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Use cooked chicken: This recipe is designed for pre-cooked chicken—leftovers, rotisserie, or even grilled. Raw chicken needs more cook time and adjustments.
• Low and slow is best: Simmering your soup gently allows the flavors to blend. High heat can cause the milk to curdle or the flour to clump.
• Don’t skip the roux: The butter and flour base thickens your soup naturally—no need for cornstarch or additives.
• Broth matters: Choose a low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels, or make your own for richer flavor.
• Dairy options: Want it lighter? Use all milk. Want it extra creamy? Swap in part heavy cream or a non-dairy option like unsweetened almond milk.
• Add-ins: Feel free to stir in spinach, mushrooms, or even cooked rice for extra heartiness.

These tips make your soup easier, tastier, and more adaptable to your needs—especially if you’re feeding picky eaters or managing dietary preferences.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Even with a simple soup, technique matters. Here’s how to make sure every step hits the mark:

• Chop veggies evenly: Uniform pieces cook faster and more evenly, giving your soup better texture.
• Whisk while adding broth: This keeps the roux smooth and prevents lumps. Add broth slowly and stir constantly.
• Simmer, don’t boil: Once everything’s added, keep the heat low. Boiling can separate the cream or make the chicken tough.
• Taste and adjust: After simmering, give the soup a taste. A little extra salt or thyme can make a big difference.
• Let it sit: Like most soups, this one gets better after resting for a few minutes before serving.

Taking your time with each step helps you bring out the best flavor and texture—turning a simple recipe into something special.

Add Your Touch

One of the best things about homemade cream of chicken soup is how customizable it is. Once you’ve mastered the basic version, it’s easy to add your personal twist based on what you like or what’s in your kitchen.

• Extra veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
• Grains and pasta: Want a heartier meal? Add cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta like orzo or ditalini for a filling twist.
• Spices: A pinch of smoked paprika, curry powder, or Italian seasoning can completely change the flavor profile. Just start with a little and taste as you go.
• Dairy-free version: Swap butter for olive oil and use oat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of cream or regular milk.
• Texture boost: Top with homemade croutons or shredded cheese right before serving for added crunch and richness.
• Protein options: While chicken is classic, you can swap in cooked turkey or even white beans for a vegetarian-friendly protein source.

These small tweaks let you reinvent this soup every time you make it—so it never gets boring and always feels fresh.

Storing & Reheating homemade cream of chicken soup

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep, leftovers, or freezing for later.

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Storing:

• Fridge: Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, until fully warmed through.
• Avoid boiling: High heat can cause the dairy to separate. Always reheat gently for the best texture.

These tips make it easy to enjoy your homemade soup all week—or save some for another cozy night.

Chef’s Helpful Tips homemade cream of chicken soup

Even a simple soup can shine brighter with a few expert tips. These quick tricks will help make your cream of chicken soup even better:

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• Prep ahead: Chop your veggies and cook your chicken beforehand to save time. Store them in the fridge up to 2 days before cooking.
• Don’t rush the roux: Let the butter and flour cook for at least 1–2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste and give the soup a silky base.
• Use fresh herbs if possible: A bit of fresh thyme or parsley at the end boosts the flavor and gives the soup a bright finish.
• Balance your flavors: If your soup tastes flat, try adding a small splash of lemon juice or a pinch more salt. Sometimes a little acidity helps round it out.
• Keep it smooth: For extra creaminess, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender—especially if you prefer fewer chunks.
• Double the batch: This soup freezes well, so consider making a larger batch to save for busy nights.

With these chef-tested tips, your soup will always turn out smooth, creamy, and full of comforting flavor.

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the soup.

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Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Just swap the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use about 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water).

How do I make it dairy-free?
Replace butter with olive oil and use dairy-free milk like oat or unsweetened almond milk. Avoid coconut milk if you want to keep the flavor neutral.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Just make sure it cools fully before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid separation.

Is this soup healthy?
It can be! Use low-sodium broth, add more veggies, and opt for milk instead of cream to lighten it up.

What goes well with it?
Try it with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad. It’s also great over rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food—simple, nourishing, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re battling chilly weather, looking for a quick dinner idea, or just want something cozy and classic, this recipe delivers every time.

With wholesome ingredients, easy steps, and endless ways to customize, it’s a go-to you’ll come back to again and again. Plus, it’s free from pork and alcohol, making it a family-friendly favorite you can feel good about serving.

Now that you know how to make it from scratch, there’s no need for canned versions. Homemade not only tastes better—it’s healthier, fresher, and way more rewarding. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and make a batch of this creamy, dreamy soup that’s sure to bring smiles to the table.

Craving more easy and hearty recipes like this? Stay tuned—we’ve got plenty more comfort classics coming your way!