Description
This classic Cream of Chicken Soup combines savory chicken, aromatic herbs, and a creamy base for a comforting and satisfying meal. Made with simple ingredients and cooked on the stovetop, it is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Optional
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for extra richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma and deepen the flavor profile.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, followed by the milk. This creates a creamy base essential to the soup’s texture.
- Season and Simmer: Add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it slightly thickens.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to heat through.
- Finish with Cream: For extra creaminess, stir in the heavy cream just before serving to enrich the soup’s texture and taste.
- Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and enjoy it with crusty bread or crackers for a complete comforting meal.
Notes
- Using rotisserie or leftover chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- Partially blending the soup results in a smoother texture.
- This soup can be used as a flavorful base for casseroles or pot pies.
