Warm up with a bowl of homemade cream of chicken soup, a classic comfort food that offers a rich and creamy texture, hearty chicken pieces, and a blend of aromatic herbs. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to dish for chilly evenings or when you need a little nourishment. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this delicious soup right in your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup onion, diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup carrots, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of homemade cream of chicken soup contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, and 10g carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, celery, and carrots; sauté until tender.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add shredded chicken and thyme; stir well.
6. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
7. Allow the soup to heat through but do not boil.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender if desired.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if preferred.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option. Additionally, rotisserie chicken works well for quick preparation, and you can replace thyme with rosemary or parsley based on your preference.
Serving and Pairings
Homemade cream of chicken soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or a side of garlic bread for a fulfilling meal. It can also be served alongside crackers for a comforting snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep the consistency creamy. This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Do not boil the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Overcooking the vegetables can make them mushy; sauté until just tender.
- Neglecting to season can lead to bland soup; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Using low-quality chicken or broth can affect flavor; opt for homemade if possible.
- Forgetting to shred the chicken properly can lead to uneven textures.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste before serving to ensure the seasonings are balanced.
- Add more vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a festive twist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry or blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this homemade cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as long as you ensure that your broth and any added ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Homemade cream of chicken soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Enjoy making this recipe, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste!
Homemade Cream Of Chicken Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup onion diced
- 1/2 cup celery diced
- 1/2 cup carrots diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, celery, and carrots; sauté until tender.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add shredded chicken and thyme; stir well.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
- Allow the soup to heat through but do not boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if preferred.
Nutrition
