Are you looking for a warm and comforting soup recipe that can satisfy your cravings on a cold, rainy day? Look no further than the recipe for cream of chicken soup! This classic soup is packed with flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most adventurous foodies.

Recipe for Cream of Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup diced cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are soft and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the flour and thyme, and stir well to combine.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup has thickened.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and diced chicken, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the soup is heated through and the chicken is cooked.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or croutons if desired.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cream of Chicken Soup

• Use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor. If you don’t have any on hand, store-bought chicken broth will work just fine.
• For a creamier soup, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just be careful not to let the soup boil once you’ve added the dairy, as it can curdle and ruin the texture.
• To save time, use leftover cooked chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch.
• If you prefer a smoother soup, puree the vegetables in a blender or food processor before adding the chicken broth and cream.
• Don’t skip the thyme! It adds a subtle earthy flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly.

FAQs about Cream of Chicken Soup

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of diced cooked chicken? Yes, you can! Simply sauté the chicken breasts in a separate pan until cooked through, then dice or shred them and add them to the soup as directed.
2. Can I freeze cream of chicken soup? While you can freeze this soup, be aware that the texture may change once it’s thawed and reheated. The cream can separate and the soup may become grainy. If you do freeze it, be sure to store it in an airtight container and consume within 3 months.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Of course! This recipe is very adaptable, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, mushrooms, or peas.
4. Can I use a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream? Yes, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream.
5. How long will cream of chicken soup last in the refrigerator? If stored in an airtight container, cream of chicken soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Simply follow the recipe as directed, but instead of simmering the soup on the stove, transfer it to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? If you prefer a vegetarian version of this soup, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
8. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken? Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup as directed.
9. Can I add herbs or spices to the soup? Yes, you can add herbs and spices to this soup to customize the flavor. Some popular options include thyme, rosemary, parsley, or cumin.
10. Can I use a different type of pasta in the soup? Yes, you can use a different type of pasta in this soup. Just keep in mind that different types of pasta have different cooking times, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
11. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, you can make this soup in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 4 days.

Serving Suggestions for Cream of Chicken Soup

This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Crusty bread or garlic bread
• Salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts
• Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Grilled cheese sandwich or quesadilla

Conclusion: Savor the Flavor of Cream of Chicken Soup

Cream of chicken soup is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. With its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavor, it’s the perfect soup to warm you up on a chilly day or to enjoy as a main course with your favorite sides. So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting meal, give this recipe a try and savor the flavor of cream of chicken soup!

And that’s the recipe for cream of chicken soup. I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious soup as much as I do! If you have any questions or comments about the recipe, feel free to leave them below.