Cream of chicken soup is a pantry staple for many, lending itself to countless comforting recipes. But sometimes, the convenience of a canned soup clashes with the desire for a truly homemade flavor. This blog post delves into the art of crafting delicious cream of chicken from scratch in your slow cooker, elevating your favorite recipes to a new level of taste and texture. We'll cover everything from basic recipes to variations, answering your burning questions about this classic dish.
What is Cream of Chicken Crock Pot Soup?
Cream of chicken crock pot soup isn't a single recipe; it's a technique. It's about creating a creamy, flavorful chicken base in your slow cooker that can be used as a foundation for countless dishes. Unlike using canned cream of chicken soup, this method provides superior flavor and control over ingredients, resulting in a richer, more nuanced taste. We'll show you how to make a versatile base that you can then customize to fit your needs.
How to Make Cream of Chicken in a Crock-Pot?
The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity. We start with basic ingredients that likely already reside in your pantry:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, milk, flour, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken and shred it.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the creamy sauce.
This forms your base cream of chicken. Now, let's explore variations and answer some frequently asked questions.
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken?
Yes, you absolutely can use bone-in chicken! Bone-in chicken will add extra flavor to your cream of chicken. However, you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Expect to cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remember to remove the bones before shredding the chicken.
What Can I Add to My Crock-Pot Cream of Chicken?
The possibilities are endless! This creamy base is incredibly versatile. Consider these additions:
- Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley.
- Spices: A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can elevate the flavor profile.
- Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese for a richer, cheesier cream of chicken.
How Long Does Crock-Pot Cream of Chicken Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your homemade cream of chicken will last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
What Can I Make with Crock-Pot Cream of Chicken?
Your homemade crock-pot cream of chicken is a blank canvas for culinary creativity! Use it as a base for:
- Chicken Pot Pie: A classic comfort food made easy.
- Chicken Enchiladas: A creamy, flavorful twist on a Mexican favorite.
- Chicken and Dumplings: A hearty and satisfying one-pot meal.
- Chicken Noodle Soup: Add egg noodles for a classic twist.
- Pasta Dishes: Use it as a creamy sauce for any pasta shape.
This versatile base allows you to create numerous delicious and satisfying meals, all starting with the simple elegance of your slow cooker. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your perfect creamy chicken recipe!
