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Ultra Creamy Homemade Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute

Close-up of rich, creamy homemade cream of chicken soup in a small white bowl.

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Make this rich and creamy homemade condensed cream of chicken soup from scratch. It is a perfect, easy substitute for canned soup in your favorite casseroles and comfort dishes.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken (optional, for a non-condensed version)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for one minute. Do not let it brown.
  3. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is completely smooth and there are no lumps.
  5. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This usually takes 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, thyme, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  7. If you are using the soup immediately as a standalone soup, stir in the shredded chicken now.
  8. To store as a condensed substitute, let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to use in a recipe, thin with additional broth or milk as needed.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor when using this as a base, use homemade chicken broth.
  • You can freeze this condensed base for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
  • If you want a thicker base for casseroles, reduce the milk slightly.

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