Are you looking for something to use instead of cream of chicken soup? Whether you don’t have any in the house or just like the taste of homemade soup, there are many options. Cream of chicken soup is often used as a quick base in casseroles, soups and comfort foods, bringing a rich, savory element to dishes; but you can recreate that familiar flavor and texture with simple ingredients you probably have in your kitchen without reaching for a store-bought can.
This list has you covered with everything from quick dairy swaps to lighter, dairy-free options that work in any recipe. Whether you’re looking to avoid additives or just want to change things up a bit, these substitutes are super simple and bring that homemade feel to your favorite meals.
Cream of chicken soup is a versatile pantry staple used in many classic recipes like casseroles, pasta bakes, and pot pies. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a popular ingredient for binding ingredients together and adding richness to dishes But what if you find yourself without a can of cream of chicken soup when a recipe calls for it? Don’t worry – there are plenty of easy substitutions you can use instead
This article will talk about 10 of the best cream of chicken soup alternatives, ranging from easy-to-find pantry items to creative home-cooked options. If you’re creative, you can still make a tasty meal without having to run to the store for a can of soup.
Understand the Role of Cream of Chicken Soup
Before diving into replacements it’s helpful to understand what cream of chicken soup brings to a dish
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Creaminess – The soup’s smooth, thick texture helps bind ingredients together and gives a velvety mouthfeel.
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Savory flavor – The chicken and savory seasonings add a subtle umami flavor.
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Thickening power – The flour and starch in the soup helps thicken and stabilize casseroles and sauces.
When choosing a substitute, consider which of these qualities are most important for your recipe.
1. Canned Cream Soups
Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can often be used in a 1:1 ratio for cream of chicken soup. They provide a similar creamy texture and binder effect. Just be mindful of their flavors coming through.
2. Greek Yogurt
Plain Greek yogurt is an ideal replacement when you want to lighten up a recipe. Whisk together 1 cup yogurt with 1⁄4 cup chicken broth until smooth. The tangy flavor needs seasoning.
3. Roux + Chicken Broth
A classic roux, which is butter flour cooked into a paste, mixed into hot chicken broth works just as well. Slowly add broth until desired thickness is reached.
4. Cream or Milk + Chicken Broth
For a lighter version, simmer 1 cup milk or cream with 1 cup chicken broth. Thicken with a bit of cornstarch if needed. Add seasonings to boost flavor.
5. Mashed Potatoes
Surprisingly, mashed potatoes make an excellent thickener. Blend or puree them with chicken broth and seasoning for a creamy, starchy base.
6. Silken Tofu
To make a vegan or dairy-free option, blend silken tofu with vegetable broth and spices until it is completely smooth and creamy.
7. Cashew Cream
Soak raw cashews then blend into a creamy paste with broth and seasoning. Excellent creamy texture and neutral flavor.
8. Coconut Milk
Full-fat coconut milk mimics the richness of cream soups. Shake the can well before blending with chicken or vegetable broth.
9. Slurry
A slurry of cornstarch or arrowroot and water adds thickness without creaminess. Useful when texture isn’t critical.
10. Homemade
Chicken broth, milk or cream, roux, and seasonings can be used to make your own condensed cream of chicken soup. Control the taste.
Tips for Success
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For casseroles, opt for creamier substitutes like Greek yogurt or blended tofu. Soups and gravies can use roux or slurries.
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Season substitutions well with herbs, garlic, onion, and spices for flavor.
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For dairy-free recipes, use vegetable broth and omit dairy ingredients.
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Adding cooked chicken boosts flavor and protein in any substitute.
With a combination of pantry staples and imagination, you can replicate the creamy richness of canned soup in your recipes. Give these substitutions a try the next time cream of chicken soup eludes you!
Common substitutes for cream of chicken soup
Need a stand-in for cream of chicken soup? No worries. Whether you’re halfway through a recipe or just want something homemade, there are plenty of easy swaps you can grab from the pantry or fridge. With these easy swaps, you can get all the warm, creamy tastes without having to go to the store.
Why you need cream of chicken soup
Cream of chicken soup serves a few purposes in cooking. Here are some reasons why you need it:
- Casseroles are built on top of cream of chicken soup.
- It adds flavor to sauces and gravies.
- Many other dishes taste better and feel creamier after adding cream of chicken soup to them.
Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute
FAQ
What to use in place of cream of chicken soup?
directionsOver medium heat combine butter, onion, garlic, milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth in medium sauce pan until combined. Add flour, salt and pepper and stir until it thickens. (About 3 minutes). Just add more flour if you want it thicker. Use in any recipe you need it for.
How to make own cream of chicken soup?
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Rapidly whisk in flour until thick, about 2 minutes. Whisk in chicken stock until smooth. Whisk in milk; bring to a simmer. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Off heat, season with salt and black pepper.
What is a good substitute for cream in soup recipes?
3/4 cup of milk mixed with 1/4 cup of melted butter can be used in place of 1 cup of heavy cream. You could do 1/2 c of skim milk, 2 tbsp of a butter alternative, and a tbsp of flour to thicken for a lower calorie option.
What is a substitute for cream of chicken soup reddit?
Cream of onion, cream of mushroom, or cream of celery would work combined with vegetable broth.