Cream of Chicken Soup is more than just a comforting dish; it's a versatile canvas for creativity in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken mingling with vibrant veggies in a creamy, savory broth. As you explore the recipe, you'll uncover tips for substitutions and serving suggestions that elevate this classic to new heights. Ready to discover how to make this hearty skillet meal a staple in your home?
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Start by sautéing onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in butter until tender to form a flavorful base for your skillet dish.
- Create a roux by adding flour to the sautéed vegetables, which will thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, ensuring a smooth consistency without lumps.
- Stir in shredded chicken and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Customize with herbs, spices, or dairy alternatives to enhance the dish's flavor and meet dietary preferences.
How To Make It – Recipe
To make a delicious cream of chicken soup from scratch, you'll need to start with a few basic ingredients that come together to create a rich and comforting dish. This soup is perfect for chilly days or as a base for many casseroles and other recipes. The creamy texture and savory flavor of the chicken combined with vegetables make it a favorite for families. Plus, it's a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it both economical and efficient.
Once you gather your ingredients, the process is quite simple. You'll begin by sautéing onions and garlic, which form the aromatic base of the soup. Adding in chicken broth, cooked chicken, and vegetables will enhance the flavor profile, while the addition of cream or milk at the end gives it that signature creaminess. This soup isn't only tasty but also versatile, allowing you to modify it with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: thyme or parsley for garnish
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are tender. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for about a minute to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the shredded chicken and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes. Finally, stir in the heavy cream or milk, season with salt and pepper, and heat through until everything is warmed and well combined.
When preparing cream of chicken soup, feel free to customize it to your taste. You can add more vegetables like peas or corn for added texture and flavor, or use herbs such as thyme or rosemary to enhance the aroma.
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer after adding the cream, or alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup for a smoother consistency. Healthy cast iron chicken is another great dish that pairs well with this soup. Enjoy your homemade creation!
Substitution Suggestions
While the classic cream of chicken soup recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitution options that can enhance the dish or cater to dietary preferences.
If you're looking for dairy alternatives, try using coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy texture without the lactose. For a lighter option, vegetable broth can replace chicken broth.
Spice adjustments can also elevate your soup—add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky kick or fresh herbs like thyme and parsley for a burst of flavor. Additionally, you can incorporate Whole 30 compliant ingredients to ensure the meal fits within specific dietary guidelines.
Experiment with these substitutions to make the recipe your own and suit your taste!
Serving Suggestions
Once you've customized your cream of chicken soup with those delightful substitutions, it's time to think about how to serve it.
For a beautiful presentation, consider garnish options like fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of paprika to add color and flavor.
Pair your soup with side dishes that complement its richness—crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or a light salad can create a satisfying meal.
You might also serve it over rice or noodles for a heartier dish. Adding a simple one-pan meal like a chicken skillet can enhance your dining experience as well.
With these suggestions, you'll elevate your cream of chicken soup into a comforting and inviting dining experience. Enjoy every delectable bite!
Make-Ahead and Storage
When you're looking to save time on busy weeknights, making your cream of chicken soup ahead of time can be a game changer.
This meal prep strategy lets you enjoy a hearty dish while keeping ingredient freshness in mind. Prepare your soup on the weekend, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Store it in airtight containers, ensuring it stays delicious for days. By doing this, you not only cut down on weeknight cooking time but also have a comforting meal ready to go. Plus, you'll appreciate the convenience of homemade goodness whenever hunger strikes! Enjoy the ease of a well-planned week!
Incorporating chicken rice skillet into your meal prep can also provide a quick and satisfying option for those busy nights.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
To keep your cream of chicken soup tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage and reheating techniques are essential.
For leftover storage, transfer your soup to an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It'll stay good for about three to four days.
If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it in portions. One-pan meals can be a great way to use up leftovers effectively.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, use these reheating tips: thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently.
You can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it warms evenly.
Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
Cream of chicken soup isn't just a comforting dish; it's also packed with nutritional benefits that can enhance your meal.
Each serving typically contains around 200 calories, making it a satisfying option without overloading your diet. You'll get a balance of protein from the chicken, healthy fats, and essential vitamins from the vegetables.
The calorie breakdown shows approximately 10 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 10 grams of protein per serving.
This hearty soup not only warms your soul but also nourishes your body, making it a delicious choice for any time of year. Enjoy the wholesome goodness! Additionally, this dish can be made quickly in a one-pan skillet for a convenient cooking experience.
Final Thoughts
While you savor that bowl of cream of chicken soup, it's easy to appreciate how this dish combines comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.
This versatile recipe can inspire you to explore other soup varieties, whether it's a hearty vegetable or a spicy tortilla soup. Remember, using fresh ingredients elevates the flavors, so don't shy away from experimenting with herbs and spices. One great way to enhance your dish is by incorporating delicious skillet chicken, which adds a savory depth to your meal.
As you hone your skills, keep these kitchen tips in mind: always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Embrace the warmth and satisfaction this soup provides, and enjoy making it a staple in your home.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Instead?
Why settle for store-bought when your homemade cream of chicken soup can elevate the dish? You'll enjoy its rich flavors and perfect consistency, making it a delicious substitute that enhances every bite. Go for it!
What Type of Skillet Is Best for This Recipe?
For this recipe, you'll want a nonstick skillet for easy cleanup, but a cast iron skillet offers excellent heat retention and flavor enhancement. Choose based on your preference for convenience or traditional cooking methods!
How Long Does It Take to Prepare This Dish?
You'll find that preparation time takes about 10 minutes, while cooking time usually lasts around 20 minutes. So, in just half an hour, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade dish that's sure to impress!
Is This Recipe Suitable for a Gluten-Free Diet?
Sure, many people think gluten-free means sacrificing flavor, but you can easily make this dish suitable for dietary restrictions. Just use gluten-free substitutions for the soup and any pasta or grains, and enjoy deliciously!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skillet?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the skillet! They enhance both flavor and nutrition. Try peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra texture and taste, but adjust cooking times for each vegetable's tenderness.
