The aroma of Cream of Chicken Soup wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With each spoonful, the rich, creamy broth dances on your taste buds, bringing comfort like your grandma’s legendary hugs—minus the embarrassing stories about you as a child. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes to try recipe.
Every time I make this velvety soup, I’m reminded of rainy afternoons spent curled up on the couch with my family. The smell would fill our home, prompting my dad to declare that “soup is always better when it’s raining.” Who could argue with that? So grab your spatula and let’s dive into a delicious bowl of nostalgia.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cream of Chicken Soup is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor
- Its creamy texture makes it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Versatile enough to enjoy alone or as an ingredient in casseroles, this soup will warm your heart
I remember one particularly chilly evening when I whipped up this soup for friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many soup lovers are at your table.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; no one wants sad, squishy garlic in their soup.
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Yellow Onion: A half onion adds sweetness; chop it finely to enhance the soup’s aromatic base.
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Carrots: Sliced thinly for a touch of sweetness and color; they brighten up the overall look and taste.
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Celery Stalks: Use two stalks for crunch; they add depth and freshness to our delightful concoction.
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth; this allows you to control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Cream or Milk: Heavy cream gives richness; use milk if you want something lighter but still creamy.
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Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Don’t skimp here—season generously for that full-bodied flavor experience!
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Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Parsley): A sprinkle at the end brightens everything up; fresh herbs are nature’s confetti!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cream of Chicken Soup
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
Add Vegetables and Chicken: Toss in chopped carrots and celery next. Stir occasionally until they soften slightly. Then add your chicken breasts, browning them on both sides for about 4-5 minutes.
Pour in Broth & Simmer: Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, scraping any stuck bits from the bottom. Bring it to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes.
Shred the Chicken & Mix Cream In: Remove chicken breasts once cooked through. Shred them using two forks. Add shredded chicken back into the pot along with heavy cream or milk—stir until blended.
Add Seasonings & Garnish: Season generously with salt and pepper. For added flair, throw in some chopped fresh thyme or parsley right before serving!
This Cream of Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a hug in a bowl that warms your soul even on the rainiest days! Enjoy every spoonful as if it’s crafted from pure magic in your kitchen!
You Must Know
- This creamy delight is more than just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The rich aroma wafts through the kitchen, making even the most stubborn of eaters come running
- Perfect for any season, it warms your soul and fills your belly
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then add chicken and broth to simmer before thickening the soup. This sequence maximizes taste while saving time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in vegetables like carrots or peas, or stir in some herbs for an extra kick. Personalize this soup to suit your palate perfectly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of water or store-bought broth
- Always season as you go; it enhances every layer of flavor
- If your soup is too thick, simply stir in more liquid until desired consistency is reached
Sometimes I whip this up when friends come over, and their compliments always make me feel like a culinary superstar, proving that simple ingredients can create magic.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken for cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to the dish.
How can I make cream of chicken soup gluten-free?
Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead of regular flour for thickening.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of my soup?
Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth and freshness.
Cream of Chicken Soup
Cream of Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that envelops you in its rich, creamy goodness. Perfect for chilly days, this soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether enjoyed on its own or as an ingredient in casseroles, its comforting flavor will transport you back to cozy family moments. Let’s dive into making this deliciously nostalgic soup!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in the sliced carrots and chopped celery; cook until slightly softened.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot and brown on both sides for about 4-5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream or milk and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.