Cream of Chicken Soup: 7 Steps to a Cozy Delight

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 16, 2025

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of homemade cream of chicken soup. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you up in a cozy hug, whether it’s a chilly day or you simply need a little pick-me-up. This soup is rich and creamy, and it makes for a hearty dish that can stand on its own or serve as the perfect starter for any gathering. I love how it blends the savory flavors of tender chicken and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful harmony that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you just want to indulge in something delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at canned soup the same way again! It’s truly a game changer in the world of comfort food.

cream of chicken soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making your cream of chicken soup truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I usually use rotisserie chicken for that extra flavor and convenience.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the soup rich and indulgent. It creates that velvety texture we all crave!
1 cup chicken broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. This adds depth to the flavor.
1/2 cup onions, chopped: Fresh onions bring a nice sweetness when sautéed, enhancing the overall taste.
1/2 cup carrots, diced: They add a pop of color and a bit of natural sweetness.
1/2 cup celery, diced: Celery provides a slight crunch and a wonderful aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing the vegetables, it adds richness and helps build flavor right from the start.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A touch of garlic in powder form infuses the soup with a warm, savory note.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors in the soup.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: This adds a hint of spice, balancing the creaminess of the soup.

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, and you’ll be well on your way to a comforting, homemade delight!

How to Prepare Cream of Chicken Soup

Getting the steps right is key to making the perfect cream of chicken soup. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through it! Just follow along, and you’ll have a steaming bowl of comfort in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the butter: Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. This sets the stage for delicious sautéed vegetables!
Sauté the vegetables: Once the butter is melted and bubbling, toss in 1/2 cup of chopped onions, 1/2 cup of diced carrots, and 1/2 cup of diced celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. You’ll love that aroma filling your kitchen!
Add the chicken: Next, stir in your 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything together, letting the chicken warm through for about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the broth: Time to add 1 cup of chicken broth! Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The broth will help deglaze the pot, scraping up those lovely bits of flavor stuck at the bottom.
Stir in the cream: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and slowly mix in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine everything. This is where the magic happens, and your soup transforms into a creamy dream!
Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step; the waiting is worth it!
Serve hot: After simmering, take a moment to taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Then, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it while it’s piping hot. Trust me, it’s the perfect cozy meal!

There you go! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful cream of chicken soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cream of chicken soup is not just any soup; it’s a delightful experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Texture: The heavy cream creates a luscious base that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Flavorful: The combination of sautéed vegetables and tender chicken makes every spoonful bursting with taste.
Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe is a staple in my home!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cream of chicken soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips to keep in mind:

Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when cooking the onions, carrots, and celery. Sautéing them well enhances the flavor base of your soup.
Use warm chicken broth: If you can, warm up the chicken broth before adding it to the pot. This helps maintain the temperature and keeps your soup from cooling down too much.
Adjust seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving! You might want to add a touch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

Following these tips will help you create a delicious and comforting bowl of cream of chicken soup that everyone will love!

Variations of Cream of Chicken Soup

One of the best things about cream of chicken soup is how adaptable it is! You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few fun ideas:

Add different vegetables: Try incorporating peas, corn, or green beans for added texture and flavor.
Spice it up: For a little kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill can elevate the flavor profile and add a fresh touch.
Lower-calorie option: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based milk to lighten it up without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Feel free to experiment and make this creamy delight your own!

Nutritional Information

Knowing the nutritional profile of your cream of chicken soup can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving (1 cup) of this delicious soup, based on typical ingredients:

Calories: 350
Fat: 25g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. Enjoying this creamy soup in moderation can be a delightful addition to your meals!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover cream of chicken soup properly is key to enjoying it later! Once the soup has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days, so you can savor those comforting flavors again soon!

When it’s time to reheat, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from curdling. If you need to, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. You’ll want to avoid microwaving it if possible, as that can lead to uneven heating and a less creamy texture. Enjoy your cozy bowl once more!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use raw chicken in this cream of chicken soup recipe?
While you can use raw chicken, it’s best to cook it beforehand for the best flavor and texture. Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and taste!

Q2. How can I make this cream of chicken soup gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free, and you’re all set!

Q3. Can I freeze cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just be cautious when reheating, as cream-based soups can separate after freezing. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q4. What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk if you’d like a lighter soup, but keep in mind it may not be as rich and creamy. Adding a bit of cornstarch can help thicken it up!

Q5. How do I enhance the flavor of my cream of chicken soup?
For a flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a splash of lemon juice. You can also play around with spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick!

For more information on the health benefits of chicken soup, you can check out this Healthline article.

For tips on making homemade chicken broth, visit this Serious Eats guide.

For a deeper dive into the nutritional aspects of cream-based soups, refer to this NCBI study.