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:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Cook Vegetables:
- 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:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add Chicken:
- Add the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Season:
- Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
7. Add Cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- 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.