Cream of chicken soup is a versatile kitchen staple that has become an integral part of many beloved recipes. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for quick and easy dinner options, or someone who prefers to make everything from scratch, this soup is a must-have in your pantry. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the history, uses, and how to make this comforting dish. We’ll also cover the best ways to use it, how to store it, and much more. Let’s explore how you can use this creamy, flavorful soup to enhance your culinary creations.
What is Cream of Chicken Soup?
It is a rich, savory, and creamy blend of chicken stock, milk, butter, and flour. This flavorful soup is often used as a base in a wide variety of dishes, particularly in casseroles, sauces, and stews. The thick texture makes it an ideal ingredient for adding richness and depth to recipes. The store-bought, canned version is commonly found on supermarket shelves, but making it from scratch allows for more control over the ingredients, including salt content and flavor.
The Origins of Cream of Chicken Soup
Though the exact origins of cream-based soups are unclear, the technique of thickening broth with cream and flour dates back to French cuisine. The convenience of canned cream of chicken soup was popularized in the 20th century, offering home cooks a fast way to create comforting, hearty dishes. Today, homemade versions of this classic soup are experiencing a resurgence as more people become aware of the health benefits of cooking from scratch.
Differences Between Homemade and Canned Cream of Chicken Soup
While both homemade and canned versions serve the same purpose, there are notable differences:
- Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup: Offers a fresher, more robust flavor. It’s free from artificial preservatives and additives and can be tailored to your dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free or dairy-free).
- Canned Cream of Chicken Soup: Convenient and shelf-stable, but often contains high levels of sodium, preservatives, and artificial flavoring. It’s a time-saver, but lacks the depth of flavor you get from homemade versions.
Homemade soup gives you control over the quality of ingredients, which is especially important if you’re mindful of your health.
How to Make Cream of Chicken Soup from Scratch
For those who prefer fresh, homemade food, learning how to make cream of chicken soup from scratch is a game-changer. It’s surprisingly simple, and you likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Ingredients for Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup:
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- ½ cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon (optional)
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk works best, but any milk will do)
- 1/3 teaspoon of celery salt
- 1/3 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/3 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam.
- Whisk in the flour: Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture takes on the consistency of wet sand.
- Add the chicken broth: Remove the pan from heat and add 1/3 of the chicken broth, whisking well. Gradually add the rest of the broth in thirds, whisking after each addition.
- Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Season and cook: Add the celery salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Return the mixture to medium heat and cook until it thickens, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and cool: Once the soup reaches the desired thickness, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. For an extra smooth finish, run the soup through a fine mesh strainer.
This recipe is the equivalent of two cans of store-bought cream of chicken soup. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to four months.
For more details on how to use this homemade version in various recipes, you can find additional chicken casserole recipes with cream of chicken soup to inspire your cooking.
Using Cream of Chicken Soup in Recipes
One of the most common uses for creamy chicken soup is as a base in many recipes. It adds richness, depth, and creaminess to dishes, making it a key ingredient in casseroles, soups, and sauces. Here are some of the most popular ways to incorporate it into your cooking.
Popular Recipes Using Cream of Chicken Soup
Here’s how creamy chicken soup can enhance various dishes:
- Chicken Divan: A classic American casserole made with layers of chicken, broccoli, and cream of chicken soup, topped with breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese. This dish is a perfect comfort food option for weeknight dinners.
- Chicken Tetrazzini: A creamy pasta dish that combines spaghetti, chicken, and cream of chicken soup into a rich, flavorful bake.
- Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: This one-dish meal blends rice, chicken, broccoli, and cream of chicken soup, offering a well-balanced meal full of textures and flavors.
- Crock Pot Chicken and Stuffing: An easy slow cooker meal where cream of chicken soup keeps the chicken moist while infusing the stuffing with savory flavor.
Using Cream of Chicken Soup in Sauces and Soups
This soup is not limited to casseroles. It can also be used to create thick, flavorful sauces and soups. For instance:
- Pot Pies: Use cream of chicken soup as the base for a pot pie filling, mixed with vegetables and shredded chicken, and topped with flaky pie crust.
- Creamy Chicken Stew: This heartwarming dish features chunks of chicken simmered with vegetables in a creamy broth thickened with cream of chicken soup.
- Soups: Adding cream of chicken soup to your homemade soups makes them thicker and creamier. It works especially well with vegetable and noodle soups.
You can get creative by customizing these recipes to your liking. Need inspiration? Try this homemade chicken stew using cream of chicken soup for a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
The nutritional content of creamy chicken soup depends on whether you’re using the homemade version or the canned variety. Generally, the homemade soup is lower in sodium and free from artificial preservatives.
Here’s a rough breakdown for a 1-cup serving of chicken soup:
- Calories: 400-450
- Fats: 20-30g
- Proteins: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Sodium: 1,500-2,000mg (much higher in canned varieties)
How to Make Cream of Chicken Soup Healthier
If you’re concerned about the nutritional content, there are a few easy swaps you can make to create a healthier version:
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce sodium content.
- Choose unsalted butter or swap it for a heart-healthy alternative like olive oil.
- Opt for gluten-free flour if you’re sensitive to gluten.
- Use a dairy-free milk substitute like almond or oat milk to make the soup dairy-free.
By making these adjustments, you can create a soup that aligns better with your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Best Substitutes for Cream of Chicken Soup
There are times when you may not have creamy chicken soup on hand or need a substitute for dietary reasons. Luckily, there are several alternatives you can use in its place.
1. Cream of Mushroom Soup
This is perhaps the most common substitute. It has a similar creamy texture and savory flavor, making it an excellent replacement in most recipes.
2. Cream of Celery Soup
Another great option, especially for vegetable-based dishes. The flavor is slightly more herbaceous, but it works well in casseroles and soups.
3. Dairy-Free Creamy Chicken Soup
To create a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk. You can also replace the butter with a vegan alternative like margarine or olive oil.
4. Chicken Broth with Cornstarch
If you’re looking for a light version, simply whisk chicken broth with cornstarch or flour to create a thickened base. This works well in casseroles and as a soup base but won’t have the creaminess of traditional creamy chicken soup.
Using Creamy Chicken Soup in Different Cuisines
Though cream y chicken soup is most commonly associated with American dishes, its creamy consistency makes it a versatile addition to various cuisines around the world.
1. American Comfort Food
In the United States, this soup is a key ingredient in hearty, comforting dishes like casseroles, stews, and pot pies. It’s also commonly used as a thickener for sauces.
2. British Cuisine
In the UK, this soup is often used in pies and casseroles, especially during the colder months when warm, rich dishes are most appealing.
3. French Cuisine
Cream-based soups are a staple of French cooking, and creamy chicken soup can serve as a base for classic French sauces such as velouté or béchamel.
4. Asian Fusion
In Asian cuisine, this soup can be used as a base for curries or noodle soups, adding a creamy richness to spicy and savory dishes.
The versatility of creamy chicken soup ensures it remains a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide.
Customizing Creamy Chicken Soup
One of the best things about making creamy chicken soup from scratch is the ability to customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few ways to make your soup unique:
1. Adding Herbs and Spices
For more flavor, consider adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil. You can also include spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or curry powder for a bolder taste.
2. Incorporating Vegetables
You can bulk up the soup by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, or peas. This is a great way to add texture and nutritional value to the soup.
3. Making it Heartier with Meat
For an extra protein boost, consider adding shredded chicken, turkey, or even ham. This transforms the soup from a side dish or sauce into a filling meal.
4. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
As mentioned earlier, it’s easy to make this soup vegan or dairy-free. Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use a plant-based milk and butter substitute.
FAQs About Cream of Chicken Soup
Here are some common questions :
What is the difference between creamy chicken soup and chicken broth?
Creamy chicken soup is thick and contains dairy, while chicken broth is a clear liquid made by simmering chicken bones and vegetables.
Can you freeze creamy chicken soup?
Yes, homemade cream of chicken soup can be frozen for up to four months. When reheating, whisk it thoroughly as it may separate slightly during thawing.
Can cream of chicken soup be made dairy-free?
Yes, you can make dairy-free creamy chicken soup by using plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk and replacing the butter with a vegan alternative.
How long does homemade creamy chicken soup last?
Homemade creamy chicken soup can last up to one week in the refrigerator or four months in the freezer when stored in an airtight container.
Is cream of chicken soup gluten-free?
The traditional version contains flour, which is not gluten-free. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
How do you make creamy chicken soup healthier?
Use low-sodium chicken broth, unsalted butter, and gluten-free flour to reduce sodium levels and cater to specific dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken soup is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes, from comforting casseroles to hearty stews. Whether you choose the convenience of canned soup or the fresh taste of homemade, this kitchen staple offers endless culinary possibilities. Making your own cream of chicken soup allows you to customize the flavor and nutritional content, ensuring that it aligns with your dietary needs. From American comfort food to Asian fusion dishes, cream of chicken soup’s adaptability makes it a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire.
For more detailed recipes and ways to use this comforting soup, you can explore chicken casserole recipes with cream of chicken soup and homemade chicken stew using cream of chicken soup to inspire your next meal.