Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is a comforting and versatile dish. Here’s a simple recipe for you to make it from scratch:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:

• Chop the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic.
• Cook and shred or dice the chicken.

2. Make the Roux:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Cook Vegetables:

1. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add Broth:

1. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Add Chicken:

1. Add the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine.

6. Season:

1. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

7. Add Cream:

1. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
2. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

8. Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Enjoy this homemade cream of chicken soup on its own or paired with a crusty bread. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish, especially during colder months. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables.