Cream of Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cream of Chicken Soup: just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, comforting warmth, and that undeniably satisfying feeling of a hug in a bowl. Have you ever craved something so intensely that only a spoonful of creamy, savory goodness would do? That’s the magic of this classic soup, and I’m thrilled to share my version with you.

While its exact origins are debated, creamy soups have been a staple in kitchens for centuries, evolving from simple peasant fare to elegant culinary creations. Chicken soup, in particular, has long been revered for its restorative properties, often prescribed as a remedy for colds and flu. But beyond its medicinal benefits, Cream of Chicken Soup holds a special place in our hearts because it’s simply delicious.

What makes it so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of rich, creamy texture, savory chicken flavor, and often, a hint of comforting herbs. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal, yet elegant enough to serve as a starter for a dinner party. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic taste of childhood or a simple, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen peas and carrots are convenient)
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

Sautéing the Aromatics

Okay, let’s get started! The first step is to build a flavorful base for our soup. This involves sautéing the onion and garlic in butter until they’re nice and fragrant. Trust me, this step is crucial for a delicious final product.

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to hold all the soup ingredients later on.
2. Add the finely chopped onion to the melted butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and softened, about 5-7 minutes. You don’t want it to brown, just soften.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Roux

Now comes the part where we create a roux. A roux is a mixture of fat (in this case, butter) and flour, and it’s the key to thickening our soup and giving it that creamy texture we’re after. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than it sounds!

1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon to combine the flour with the butter.
2. Continue to cook the flour mixture, stirring constantly, for about 2-3 minutes. This step is important to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture should be smooth and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the roux.

Adding the Liquids and Seasonings

This is where we start to transform the roux into a creamy soup base. We’ll gradually add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk, along with our flavorful seasonings.

1. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. It’s important to add the broth gradually to ensure a smooth soup.
2. Once the chicken broth is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the heavy cream and milk to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Stir in the dried thyme, dried sage, ground nutmeg, black pepper, and salt. Remember, you can always adjust the seasonings to your liking later on.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

Adding the Chicken and Vegetables

Now for the stars of the show: the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables! These will add substance and flavor to our creamy soup.

1. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the soup. Stir to combine.
2. Add the mixed vegetables to the soup. Stir to combine.
3. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through.

Adjusting and Serving

Before serving, give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
2. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Here are a few extra tips and variations to make this recipe your own:

• For a smoother soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth before adding the chicken and vegetables. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
• Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onion and garlic for a richer, earthier flavor.
• Use different vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as celery, carrots, or potatoes.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Make it ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Freezing: Cream-based soups don’t always freeze well, as the cream can separate. However, if you want to freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When reheating, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator and whisk it well to recombine the cream.

Serving Suggestions

This Cream of Chicken Soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with:

• Crusty bread or crackers
• A grilled cheese sandwich
• A side salad

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams

Enjoy your homemade Cream of Chicken Soup! I hope you find this recipe easy to follow and delicious. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you try any variations!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Cream of Chicken Soup recipe is more than just a bowl of comfort; it’s a culinary hug on a chilly day, a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution, and a blank canvas for your own creative culinary twists. I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, and here’s why: it’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly simple to make, and infinitely adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand.

Think about it: a creamy, rich broth brimming with tender chicken and your favorite vegetables, all made from scratch with ingredients you can actually pronounce. No more relying on canned soups loaded with sodium and artificial flavors! This recipe empowers you to control exactly what goes into your meal, ensuring a healthy and delicious experience for you and your loved ones.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Carrots, celery, and onions are a classic trio, but don’t be afraid to add some chopped mushrooms for an earthy depth, or some fresh spinach for a boost of nutrients. Roasted red peppers can add a touch of sweetness and smokiness, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley will brighten up the flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. A grilled cheese sandwich on the side is always a winner!
* Elevated Elegance: Garnish with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, and a drizzle of truffle oil for a sophisticated touch.
* Hearty Meal: Add cooked noodles or rice to transform it into a more substantial meal. Rotini, egg noodles, or wild rice would all work beautifully.
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
* Creamy Tomato Chicken Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes (drained) for a tangy twist.
* Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add some white beans or chickpeas for protein.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it both economical and environmentally friendly.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a truly memorable bowl of Cream of Chicken Soup. I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Please, share your photos, variations, and any tips you discover in the comments below. Let’s build a community of soup lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know what you think!