Imagine a cozy evening wrapped in a blanket, the aroma of homemade cream of chicken soup wafting through the air, wrapping you in warmth like a hug from your grandma. That first spoonful glides into your mouth, a symphony of flavors playing on your taste buds—rich, creamy goodness with tender bites of chicken and vegetables. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home no matter where you are. For more inspiration, check out this cozy cabbage soup recipe.
Now, picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon, and you’re lounging on the couch in your pajamas (no judgment here!). You hear the sound of chopping and sizzling from the kitchen as someone lovingly prepares this delightful soup. comforting Swiss chicken bake Memories flood back of family gatherings where laughter was shared over bowls filled with this comforting dish. Homemade cream of chicken soup is not just food; it’s an invitation to pause, savor, and connect.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This homemade cream of chicken soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making meal times stress-free.
- The flavor profile is perfectly balanced—a creamy base enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant veggies and tender chicken, it’s a feast for the eyes too.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a starter or main dish!
Ingredients for homemade cream of chicken soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; they cook quickly and shred easily for that perfect texture.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves to ensure maximum flavor; they’ll add depth to our creamy concoction.
- Onion: A medium onion will provide sweetness and aroma; don’t skip it unless you want bland soup!
- Carrots: Chopped carrots bring sweetness and color; they should be cut small enough to cook through.
- Celery: Adds crunch and flavor—choose crisp stalks for the best results.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; it forms the base of our soup.
- Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half makes it rich and velvety; adjust according to your preference for indulgence.
- Dried Thyme: A must-have herb that adds an earthy note—fresh thyme works too if you have it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make homemade cream of chicken soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your vegetables: dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. Get everything prepped so you’re ready to go!
Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, place your boneless chicken breasts in there. Sear them until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes each). Remove them from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot (don’t wash it yet!), toss in your chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened—about 5-7 minutes—and enjoy that lovely aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Create Soup Base
Pour in about six cups of low-sodium chicken broth into the pot. Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat. Add dried thyme for that herby essence while stirring well.
Step 5: Shred Chicken
While waiting for the broth to simmer away happily, take those golden chicken breasts we set aside earlier and shred them using two forks. Toss them back into the pot once shredded.
Step 6: Add Cream
Finally, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half till fully mixed—even more deliciousness awaits! Let everything simmer together for another few minutes until thickened slightly.
Transfer to bowls with fresh herbs on top as garnish if desired; serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping!
Enjoy this soul-soothing bowl all winter long—or any time you need comfort food that feels like home!
You Must Know
- This delightful homemade cream of chicken soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- With simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up on a chilly day, and you can adjust the recipe based on what’s in your pantry.
- Perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add diced chicken, searing it until golden. Once browned, stir in flour for thickness before gradually adding chicken broth and cream. Let it simmer to develop flavors while you prep any add-ins.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even go vegetarian with mushrooms. Experiment with spices like thyme or rosemary for added depth. You can also toss in frozen vegetables for extra nutrients and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store your homemade cream of chicken soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor; dried herbs just don’t compare.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Incorporate cream slowly to prevent curdling and achieve that dreamy texture.
Sometimes I whip up this homemade cream of chicken soup after a long day, and my kids swear it’s magical—especially when paired with buttery crackers!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for homemade cream of chicken soup?
To make delicious homemade cream of chicken soup, gather the following ingredients: chicken breast or rotisserie chicken, butter, onion, garlic, all-purpose flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. You can also add vegetables such as carrots and celery for added flavor and nutrition. This combination creates a rich and comforting soup that warms the soul.
How long does it take to prepare homemade cream of chicken soup?
Preparing homemade cream of chicken soup typically takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you can expect to spend around 45 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a quick option for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have a comforting bowl ready in no time.
Can I freeze homemade cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can freeze homemade cream of chicken soup! To ensure the best texture after thawing, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best consumed within three months for optimal flavor. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
What can I serve with homemade cream of chicken soup?
Homemade cream of chicken soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or warm biscuits for dipping. A fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the soup nicely. Additionally, you could serve it with crackers or a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal that satisfies any craving.
Conclusion for homemade cream of chicken soup:
In summary, making homemade cream of chicken soup is simple and rewarding. By gathering basic ingredients like chicken, butter, and heavy cream, you can create a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. This comforting recipe not only warms your body but also brings joy to your dining table. pumpkin soup with sage Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides like bread or salad, this soup will become a cherished favorite in your home.
Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Homemade cream of chicken soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. This rich and creamy dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a symphony of flavors in every spoonful. Easy to prepare and full of heartwarming goodness, it invites you to savor the moment with loved ones over a bowl of warmth.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by chopping onion, slicing carrots and celery, and mincing garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes each). Remove from pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and stir in dried thyme.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream until fully combined. Simmer for an additional few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, consider swapping in fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. Feel free to include frozen vegetables for extra nutrition. To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
