Tasty Chicken And Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe Variations To Try

Savoring the familiar yet sophisticated character of chicken and cream of chicken soup recipes is an unparalleled journey for the palate. This quintessential comfort dish is no stranger to households worldwide. Its rich, velvety texture and hearty, soul-soothing essence encapsulate a sense of home. 

We’ve added this timeless recipe and an innovative twist, inviting a thrilling adventure for flavor explorers. Immerse yourself in a world where tender chicken meets luscious cream, and a harmonious symphony of spices enhances the taste spectrum. 

This reinterpretation satiates and enchants, marrying tradition and creativity in every simmering pot. Witness a soup transformation, where a humble classic is elevated into an exquisite gastronomic experience. 

Brace yourselves, fellow food lovers, as we embark on an enticing culinary journey, unraveling the secrets behind a reinvented cream of chicken soup that’s about to redefine comfort on your dining tables.

What Is Cream Of Chicken Soup?

Cream of chicken soup is a savory, creamy dish that forms an integral part of global comfort food. It’s made by simmering tender chicken pieces in a flavorful broth, often with vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery. The distinctive creaminess is introduced by adding heavy cream or milk, creating a velvety texture. 

Its rich and warming qualities make it a popular choice for cold days. At the same time, its versatility allows it to be enjoyed as a standalone dish or used as a base for casseroles and pies.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Additional Proteins You can add other proteins like ham or turkey. Seafood such as shrimp or crab can also be an exciting twist to the classic recipe.
• Vegetables Adding more vegetables such as peas, corn, or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value and provide additional texture and flavor.
• Vegan Version For a vegan take, you could replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use plant-based cream or coconut milk as the cream substitute.
• Gluten-Free If gluten-sensitive, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of regular wheat flour.
• Spices and Herbs Experimenting with spices and herbs can change the flavor profile significantly. For instance, adding some smoked paprika or chipotle could give a smoky twist, while adding curry powder or turmeric could lend an exotic, warming touch.

Variations, Add-Ons And Toppings

Variations

• Vegetable Loaded: Add a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as peas, corn, bell peppers, or diced potatoes, for added nutrition and texture.
• Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices and herbs. Consider smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, curry powder for an exotic touch, or a pinch of saffron for a luxurious spin.
• Seafood Delight: Replace chicken with shrimp or crab for a pescatarian soup version.
• Vegan Friendly: Use plant-based alternatives such as tofu or chickpeas for the chicken and coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy milk.

Add-Ons

• Proteins: Add diced ham, shredded turkey, or even boiled eggs.
• Grains: Add cooked rice, barley, or small pasta shapes to make the soup heartier.
• Cheese: Stir some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a deliciously creamy and cheesy twist.

Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: For a fresh and colorful garnish, sprinkle freshly cut parsley, dill, or chives on top of each dish.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add a satisfying crunch and are a classic soup topping.
• Bacon Bits: Sprinkle-cooked, crumbled bacon on top for a smoky, savory finish.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese like cheddar or a dusting of Parmesan can add a new depth of flavor.
• Seeds or Nuts: Roasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or slivered almonds can provide a satisfying crunch.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• In a pan, make the roux with flour and oil as described in the original recipe. Gradually add the milk and keep stirring until it thickens.
• Transfer the roux to your slow cooker, then add the chicken, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally, and make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
• If the soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, make a slurry of cornstarch and water, add it to the soup, stir well, and cook on high for 15-30 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, heat the oil in the Instant Pot. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Gradually stir in the milk and keep stirring until the mixture thickens.
• Add the chicken, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
• Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual or “pressure cook” on high pressure for 10 minutes.
• After the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then quickly release the remaining pressure.
• If you desire a thicker soup, make a slurry of cornstarch and water, add it to the soup, stir well, and use the sauté function to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

• Store-bought Broth: This is a convenient option that can save a significant amount of time. When purchasing store-bought broth, opt for low-sodium versions to better control your soup’s saltiness. Many high-quality, organic options are also available that can provide good flavor.
• Homemade Broth: If you have the time and resources, making your chicken broth can give your soup a deeper flavor. Homemade broth also allows you to control the ingredients fully, which is beneficial if catering to specific dietary needs or preferences. You can make broth in bulk and freeze it in portions for future use.

How To Serve ?

• Temperature: Cream of chicken soup is best served hot. Ensure it’s thoroughly heated before serving. A lukewarm soup may not bring out the flavors as effectively as a hot one.
• Bowl Selection: Soup is typically served in a bowl, but the bowl type can enhance the experience. A shallow, wide bowl is often the best choice for creamy soups as it showcases the texture and ingredients.
• Garnishing: Add a touch of garnish just before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a few croutons, or a swirl of cream can elevate the look and taste of the soup. If your soup has chicken pieces, ensure each serving has a good mix of chicken and broth.
• Accompaniments: Cream of chicken soup pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. Serving these on the side can turn your soup into a satisfying meal.
• Portion Size: Keep the portion sizes appropriate. For a starter, a small cup of soup is sufficient. If it’s the main course, a larger bowl is more suitable.
• Serving Utensils: Use a ladle for serving soup. This allows you to control the portion size and ensures a neat and clean serving process.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. This can add a nice textural contrast.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the crispy, cheesy sandwich complements the creamy soup nicely and makes for a more substantial meal.
• Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance out the richness of the soup. Try a simple green salad with a vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted root vegetables can add a touch of sweetness and a different texture to your meal. This can be particularly nice in the colder months.
• Steamed Green Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or peas can add color and nutrition to your meal without being too heavy.
• Rice or Quinoa: A side of these grains can fill the meal and soak up the delicious soup.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup without adding the cream. Cool completely, then store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for later use. Add the cream when reheating.
• Reheating: Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Do not boil, as this may cause the cream to separate.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Chicken and Vegetable Pot Pie: Use the leftover soup for a homemade pot pie filling. Top it with a flaky crust or puff pastry and bake until golden and bubbly.
• Creamy Chicken Pasta: Cook some pasta and toss it with the leftover soup for a quick and easy pasta dish. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for flavor and nutrition.
• Chicken and Rice Casserole: Mix the leftover soup with cooked rice, additional vegetables, and shredded cheese. Bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated.
• Chicken and Biscuit Bake: Pour the leftover soup into a baking dish and top it with biscuit dough. Bake until the biscuits are golden brown and serve it as a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Creamy Chicken Quesadillas: Spread the leftover soup onto tortillas, and add shredded cheese and any desired toppings such as diced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers. Fold the tortillas and cook them in a skillet until the cheese melts and the tortillas are crispy.

TIPS

• Perfect Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape in the chowder.
• Herb Infusion: Infuse the broth with fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves for a fragrant base.
• Bacon Boost: Add depth of flavor with crispy bacon. Cook it first, then crumble and sprinkle on top before serving.
• Creamy Indulgence: Use a combination of heavy cream and whole milk for a rich, but not overly heavy, chowder.
• Fresh Catch: Opt for fresh halibut fillets for the best flavor and texture. Frozen can be used if fresh is unavailable.

Nutrition Table