This comforting cream soup base is a versatile homemade staple that captures the cozy essence of classic American kitchen cooking. Built on a simple roux of butter and flour, it creates a silky, creamy foundation similar to traditional cream sauces. Chicken stock and half-and-half provide depth and richness, while optional additions such as onions, celery, broccoli, mushrooms, potatoes, rice, or noodles turn it into countless variations of hearty soup. This recipe is valued for its adaptability, from simple cream of chicken to vegetable-packed bowls—making it ideal for using pantry staples and leftovers while producing a satisfying, warming meal that feels both nostalgic and customizable.
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp butter ( or margarine)
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup onions (chopped, optional)
- 1 cup chopped celery (chopped, optional)
- 2 quarts chicken stock (about two 32-oz cartons or 2 quarts total)
- 1 pint half-and-half (2 cups)
- ½ tbsp chicken stock base (optional)
Optional:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, mushrooms, potatoes, celery, cooked rice, or egg noodles)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- parsley (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Roux
- Melt butter or margarine in a large pot over medium heat
- If using onions and celery, sauté them in the butter until softened
- Stir in flour to make a smooth paste
Step 2: Add Stock
- Gradually whisk in chicken or hen stock
- Stir continuously to avoid lumps
Step 3: Thicken
- Bring mixture to a gentle simmer
- Cook until soup thickens
Step 4: Add Cream
- Stir in half-and-half
- Add chicken stock base if using
Step 5: Finish and Customize
- Add any desired vegetables, rice, or noodles
- Simmer until ingredients are tender
- Season with salt and pepper, and parsley to taste
Tips
- Use evaporated milk instead of half-and-half for deeper flavor
- Substitute vegetable stock for chicken for a vegetarian version
- Add shredded cooked chicken for a full meal soup
- Stir in cheddar or Swiss cheese for a cheese soup variation
- Add cooked bacon or ham for smoky richness
- Blend part of the soup for extra creaminess
- Add fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or dill
- Make it heartier with potatoes or egg noodles
- Add curry powder or paprika for flavor twists
- Freeze without dairy, then add cream when reheating
Nutrition
Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 7gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 240mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 4200IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 1.5mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!