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
In this article, we’ll explore 10 of the best substitutes for cream of chicken soup, ranging from common pantry ingredients to clever homemade alternatives. With a little creativity, you can still pull together a delicious meal without running 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 (butter + flour cooked into a paste) whisked into hot chicken broth makes a perfect substitute. 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
For a vegan/dairy-free option, blend silken tofu with veggie broth and seasonings until 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
Make your own condensed cream of chicken soup using chicken broth, milk or cream, roux, and seasoning. 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. Check out these simple substitutes that’ll give you all the cozy, creamy flavors without a trip 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:
- Cream of chicken soup is used as a base for casseroles.
- It adds flavor to sauces and gravies.
- Cream of chicken soup adds flavor and creaminess to many other dishes.
Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute
FAQ
What to use in place of cream of chicken soup?
- Over 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?
For a 1:1 replacement, it’s 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of melted butter to replace 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.