Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and home, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is the kind of comforting bowl that wraps you in a hug. It’s rich, creamy, and completely made from scratch—meaning no artificial flavors or preservatives here! This delightful soup is simple enough for busy weeknights but fancy enough to impress at family gatherings. Once you try it, I have no doubt it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up. With wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious, homemade cream of chicken soup that tastes like love in a bowl. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor each spoonful of this creamy goodness.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare a big batch over the weekend, and enjoy it all week long as meal prep.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh veggies and tender chicken, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that this Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you need to gather for this delightful dish:

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons (42g) butter
• 1 cup (115g) onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons (10g) minced garlic
• 2 medium carrots, sliced in thick chunks (about 1-1 ½ cups)
• 2 stalks celery, diced (about ⅓ cup)
• 2 teaspoons (1.6g) fresh minced thyme
• 1 bay leaf

For the Creamy Mixture

• 3 tablespoons (30g) flour
• 1 canned evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth
• 2-3 cups (135g) cooked chicken

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon (4g) Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon (2g) chicken bouillon
• ½ tablespoon (8.5g) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• ½ teaspoon (1g) freshly ground black pepper (more or less to taste)

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons (8g) chopped flat-leaf parsley

Variations

One of the best parts about making Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal taste preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or green beans for added texture and flavor.
• Creamy alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter version, use oat milk instead of evaporated milk.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra herbs if you enjoy a little kick!

How to Make Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Sauté everything for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften. This step is so important because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and builds a rich foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Thicken with Flour

Next, add the flour to the pot and stir until fully incorporated. This will help thicken our soup later on. Slowly pour in the canned evaporated milk and chicken broth while stirring continuously.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Raise the heat slightly until everything comes to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. This helps achieve that lovely creamy consistency we all crave.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the shredded chicken along with creole seasoning, chicken bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, and peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently as these ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, ladle your warm soup into bowls and garnish with chopped flat-leaf parsley if desired. Enjoy each spoonful of this comforting Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Making homemade cream of chicken soup is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutrients to your soup.
• Don’t skip the roux: Making a roux with butter and flour creates a thick, creamy base that gives your soup its rich texture without relying on heavy cream.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste and tweak the seasonings throughout the cooking process to ensure it’s just right for you and your family.
• Incorporate leftover chicken: This recipe is a perfect way to use up leftover cooked chicken. It saves time and adds an extra depth of flavor.
• Make it ahead of time: Soups often taste better after they’ve had time to sit. Consider making this soup a day in advance; just reheat gently before serving!

How to Serve Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Serving homemade cream of chicken soup can be as creative as you like! Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some ideas to make it extra special.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Adding a sprinkle of fresh green onions provides a nice crunch and bright flavor contrast.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle over the top just before serving adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Grated cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, melts beautifully into the warm soup, adding creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or rolls for dipping—it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
• Green salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, provide a nutritious side full of flavor.
• Rice or quinoa: A scoop of fluffy rice or quinoa on the side can turn this comforting bowl into a heartier meal while soaking up some extra broth.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable homemade cream of chicken soup experience! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or store it for later. Here’s how to store and preserve this delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup may expand when frozen.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use a different type of meat in my Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute cooked turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy alternative.

How do I make my Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup thicker?

If you want a thicker soup, try adding more flour while cooking or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during simmering.

Is there a way to make this Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace evaporated milk with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety!

What can I serve with Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup?

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh side salad. Enjoy your meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just about nourishing your body; it’s about savoring each warm, creamy spoonful that brings comfort to your day. Whether it’s for dinner or meal prep, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to give it a try – I’m sure you’ll love every bite!