What Is the Best Substitute For Cream of Chicken Soup?

Looking for a substitute for cream of chicken soup? Whether you’re out of a can or just prefer something homemade, there are plenty of ways to replace this creamy classic in your favorite recipes. 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.

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.

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.

Cream of mushroom soup

Cream of mushroom soup has the same creaminess as cream of chicken soup. The flavor is richer and works in any recipe that calls for cream of chicken. Due to the cream and flour, it is a vegetarian option but not a gluten-free or vegan option. You can use cream of mushroom as a 1:1 replacement for cream of chicken soup.

Cream soups

Cream of celery, cream of broccoli and cream of potato all work as a substitute for cream of chicken soup. They will all give the dish the same creamy texture and can be used as a 1:1 substitute for cream of chicken soup.

Heavy cream

Heavy cream will create a rich, creamy base and thickens when heated so there’s no need to add flour or another thickener. It works as a gluten-free and vegetarian option. Because it doesn’t have a chicken taste and absorbs the flavors around it, it works well in recipes that don’t need additional seasoning. Heavy cream works best in recipes like chicken tortilla casserole or chicken pasta. It works as a 1:1 substitute for cream of chicken soup.

Sour cream and chicken broth

Sour cream adds richness and a slight tang to any recipe. The chicken broth will give it the savory taste of chicken. It works well in recipes like chicken enchiladas or creamy casseroles. Mix one-half cup of sour cream with one-half to 1 cup of chicken broth to replace 1 cup of cream of chicken soup. 

Sour cream

Full-fat sour cream also works as a substitute, but won’t provide the chicken flavor. Add some seasonings like garlic powder, onion powde,r or salt and pepper. Sour cream is thicker than cream of chicken soup, so start with one-half cup of sour cream for every cup of soup. Add up to a half cup — per cup — more as needed to get the desired creaminess. 

“When my daughters and I were diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-borne food allergy to mammalian ingredients, I had to find a substitute for cream of chicken soup for all of our fast and easy weeknight meals that use it. My favorite substitute uses flour, vegan butter, chicken broth and plant-based cream. Just whisk the ingredients together, bring to a gentle boil and keep stirring until the mixture thickens.”

— Sage Scott, Sage Alpha Gal

Plain yogurt

Plain unsweetened yogurt can also be used as a substitute. The consistency varies depending on the brand so start with one-half cup and add more as needed until you reach a 1:1 ratio.

Plain Greek yogurt

Full-fat plain Greek yogurt is tangier than cream of chicken soup so it might not work in every recipe. Since it is thicker, start with half the amount the recipe calls for and add more as needed until you reach the desired consistency. 

Milk and chicken broth

This substitution will be thinner than cream of chicken soup, but you can add some flour or cornstarch to make it thicker if needed. Combine equal parts milk and chicken broth to your recipe.

Heavy cream and chicken broth

Adding chicken broth to heavy cream brings out a richer flavor, and you can also add melted butter to enrich the taste. Mix equal parts heavy cream and chicken broth. This can be used as a 1:1 substitute for cream of chicken soup. If you want to add butter, use 1 tablespoon for every cup of liquid. You can also add seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder or salt and pepper. 

White sauce

Homemade white sauce works well as a substitute for cream of chicken soup. You will need one-fourth cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of milk. Melt butter in a saucepan,  add the flour and stir until the butter absorbs the flour, then slowly add the milk while whisking rapidly. Continue adding the milk slowly while whisking to remove the lumps; if it is too thick, add more milk. It works as a 1:1 substitute for cream of chicken soup and works well with casseroles and pasta.

Coconut milk and chicken broth

Coconut milk and chicken broth work for those who are dairy free. Coconut milk will alter the overall taste but it goes well with a lot of flavors such as rice, potatoes and vegetables. Combine equal parts coconut milk and chicken broth for a 1:1 substitute for cream of chicken soup.

Final thoughts

With so many options, you’re never stuck without a substitute for cream of chicken soup. From rich, dairy-based swaps to lighter, plant-based choices, there’s a solution for every taste and dietary need. So next time you’re whipping up a cozy casserole or creamy sauce, you can confidently pick a substitute that keeps all the flavor and comfort of the original — no store trip needed.

This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.