Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute is quick, easy, and a great way to add flavor and depth to casseroles. A good way to replace canned condensed soup.
I know. I know. You don’t have to say it. This post is not at all exciting or spectacular.
It’s not the latest or greatest recipe. Nope. It sure isn’t. Instead, it’s about cream of chicken soup substitute.
Nothing overly special there, but it is a required ingredient in many, many recipes. I thought it was necessary to share this recipe because you never know when it might come in handy.
We also have a cream of mushroom soup substitute a cream of onion soup, and a cream of celery soup, too, in the event you’re looking for one of those.
I’ve cooked several casseroles that require condensed soup. In fact, casseroles probably wouldn’t be the same without it.
So, while this cream of chicken soup substitute may not be a dish you can make over the weekend and have leftovers for Monday’s lunch, you will be able to learn how to prepare this impressive standby in case you are in a pinch.
Never in a million years did I ever think I’d be explaining to anyone how to make cream of chicken soup substitute.
You may be wondering why in the world anyone would want to make it when canned soup is readily available in supermarkets everywhere.
I started making it because I don’t particularly like canned soup. It’s also good to know what you’re cooking with and be able to control the flavors, consistency and sodium content.
There’s only been one time in my entire life when I remember purchasing a can of condensed soup. If I recall correctly, it was used to make green bean casserole, and it wasn’t something I cared to buy again.
Even if you aren’t like me and have nothing against canned soup, it’s a good idea to have as a standby in case you don’t have the condensed soup you need.
Cream of chicken soup substitute is a great recipe to use in a pinch, and no one will be able to tell the difference. I use it every time I make hash brown casserole, and it works beautifully.
This recipe only takes a few minutes to make. It begins with a few spices and ends with what is essentially a flavorful roux.
The great thing about this recipe is that you can increase the amount (double or triple) and store the unused portion in the fridge for up to a week.
If your recipe only calls for one can of condensed soup, this recipe is pretty spot on. It can be used on a one to one ratio.
I’ve used this cream of chicken soup substitute in a handful of recipes, and it works well. You can adjust the spices to meet the flavors of the dish. If you need more garlic taste, add more garlic powder.
Maybe more onion, add extra onion powder. It’s that simple. Give it a try the next time you are in need of condensed soup. You may never buy canned again.
Can you make this gluten-free?
How do you make this soup vegan?
Keep in mind that using something with a strong flavor, like coconut milk, will change the overall flavor of the recipe. It’s best to go with a mild flavor non-dairy option like soy or almond milk.
Don’t forget to check out our Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup web story!
Cream of Chicken Soup Substitute

This cream of chicken soup substitute is quick, easy, and a great way to add flavor and depth to casseroles. A good way to replace canned condensed soup.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dash of smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together milk and flour. Be sure to break up any lumps.
- In a medium saucepan, combine broth, spices, salt, and pepper. Allow to come to a simmer on low-medium heat.
- Whisk the broth and slowly add the milk and flour mixture.
- Continue to whisk for 2-3 minutes until mixture begins to thicken.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- The mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1 gramsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 199Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 698mgCarbohydrates: 31gSugar: 6gProtein: 7g
Deb
Saturday 15th of January 2022
I guess I'm late to the party, but I'm wondering how this could be made to store dry in the pantry, then add the wet ingredients as needed tip use in recipes? Thank you!
John
Sunday 16th of January 2022
Good morning Deb, thank you for asking about the recipe. Unfortunately, Kim and I aren't aware of a way to prep the dry ingredients in advance. We're not sure this recipe can be modified in that manner. Thank you again for asking and have a lovely day :)
annette
Tuesday 14th of September 2021
can you make this a dairy free recipe 1/2 cup milk? can you make this a gluten free recipe 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour? do you have to use 1/4 teaspoon onion powder?
Kimberly
Wednesday 15th of September 2021
Hi Annette!
To make this dairy free, swap out the milk with a dairy free alternative like soy milk. To make it gluten free, substitute the flour for a 1 to 1 gluten free blend. The onion powder can be adjusted or omitted. However, omitting it completely will change the flavor. Have a great day! :)
Julia
Friday 10th of September 2021
Does the 1 serving equal the size of a regular can of soup (10.5 oz.) ?
Kimberly
Friday 10th of September 2021
Hi Julia!
Yes, it does. Have a great weekend! :)
Marilyn
Monday 23rd of August 2021
Hi there! I wanted to let you know how happy I was to find your site. The substitute for canned cream soups was just what I hoped for, and thank you! Loved that you added smoked paprika - a favorite of mine. But more than the soup substitute, I am happy to see lots of other things on your site that I will be checking out soon. Thanks very much to both of you!!
Kimberly
Tuesday 24th of August 2021
Hi Marilyn!
John and I are happy that you like the cream soup substitutes. They're a favorite of ours, too. We hope you find some other recipes you'll enjoy! Thank you for the comment. Have a wonderful week! :)
Debbie
Tuesday 18th of May 2021
So fresh, tasty, and easy! My favorite recipe for cream of chicken soup. Thank you!!
Kimberly
Tuesday 18th of May 2021
You are welcome, and thank you! We are happy you like the cream of chicken soup substitute. Have a wonderful week! :)