Cream of Chicken Soup in a bowl with fresh herbs
Easy

Cream of Chicken Soup

(534)
35 min6285 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 20, 2024

This homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is rich, velvety, and infinitely better than anything from a can. Made with real chicken, butter, flour, and cream, it is pure comfort in a bowl. Use it as a standalone soup or as a base for casseroles, pot pies, and other creamy chicken dishes. A Canadian kitchen staple.

cream-soupcomfort-foodhomemadeclassic

Ingredients

Servings:
6

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Mise en Place Saves Time

Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.

Use a Meat Thermometer

The only reliable way to know chicken is safe and perfectly cooked is an instant-read thermometer. Pull at 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part. No guessing, no cutting into it and losing juices.

Build Layers of Flavour

Sear the chicken first to develop a fond (those brown bits on the bottom of the pot). Deglaze with broth and scrape it all up — that's where 80% of your soup's depth comes from.

About This Recipe

Cream of Chicken Soup is a beloved staple in Canadian kitchens, cherished for its comforting richness and the way it warms the soul. This dish brings together tender chunks of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth that envelops each ingredient in a velvety embrace. It’s perfect for those chilly winter evenings when you need a hug in a bowl, or anytime you want to treat your family to something special.

What sets this soup apart is its homemade quality, using real chicken and wholesome ingredients that elevate the flavors far beyond any canned version. The fragrant garlic, thyme, and the sweet notes from the carrots and onions create a well-rounded, satisfying dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a taste of home that evokes memories of gathering around the dinner table with loved ones. That's why Canadian home cooks adore it, as it embodies comfort and care in every spoonful.

Tips for the Best Cream of Chicken Soup

To ensure your Cream of Chicken Soup is perfectly creamy and prevents dryness in the chicken, cook the chicken breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) before shredding. Sauté the onions, celery, and carrots until softened to build a robust flavor base, and whisk the flour in carefully to avoid lumps—this will create a silky texture. Adding the heavy cream at the end allows for a luxurious finish without curdling.

What to Serve With It

Serve your Cream of Chicken Soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of colour. Pair it with crusty sourdough bread or flaky biscuits to soak up every last drop. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the soup, making it a delightful meal perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of Cream of Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Nutrition Per Serving

285
Calories
20g
Protein
16g
Fat
15g
Carbs
Fiber1g
Sugar3g
Sodium680mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw for this recipe?+

Absolutely! Using cooked chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm through and meld the flavors.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?+

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt, but the soup will be less rich.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?+

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, peas, or even corn for additional flavour and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I thicken the soup more if needed?+

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the soup while it’s simmering until it thickens.

Is this soup good for meal prep?+

Yes! Cream of Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual portions for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Reviews

4.8 / 5 (534 reviews)
Daniel L.
Mar 18, 2025

Followed the recipe exactly and it was perfect.

Lauren O.
Aug 17, 2025

Really good! I added a bit more seasoning but otherwise perfect.

Kevin F.
Aug 21, 2025

Great recipe! Even my picky kids loved it.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
10 min
Cook:
25 min
Total:
35 min
Servings:
6
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Don't boil after adding cream — it can curdle.
  • 2For a thicker soup, use less broth.
  • 3This makes an excellent base for chicken pot pie.

Variations

  • Add mushrooms for cream of chicken and mushroom soup.
  • Blend half the soup for a smoother texture.
  • Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.

Chicken Soups & Stews

Cream of Chicken Soup

Ready in 35 minutes! This Cream of Chicken Soup is a weeknight winner.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Cream of Chicken Soup in a bowl with fresh herbs
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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