Description
This homemade cream of chicken soup is a rich, velvety blend made from scratch using butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream. Enhanced with aromatic spices and tender shredded chicken, it’s a comforting and versatile soup that’s perfect for a quick meal or to use as a base in other recipes.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Base
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Additional
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Roux: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and bubbly, which forms a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and whole milk or heavy cream, making sure to stir continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to start thickening the soup base.
- Season: Add the onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt if using. Continue cooking the soup for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Chicken (Optional): Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken into the soup and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Serve or Store: Serve the soup immediately while hot, or allow it to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or a suitable plant-based alternative.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, cook the roux a little longer or add more flour.
- Use freshly shredded chicken from leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken for enhanced flavor.
- This homemade version is free from preservatives and can be used as a base for casseroles or other recipes requiring cream of chicken soup.
- Adjust salt according to your dietary needs or omit if using salted broth.
