Cream of Chicken Sauce Recipe

I’ve always believed that a good sauce can transform any meal into something extraordinary, and this cream of chicken sauce recipe is proof of that. It’s rich, velvety, and packed with comforting flavors that make your taste buds sing.

Whether you’re drizzling it over roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, or veggies, this sauce feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to impress guests.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility and ease. You don’t need to be a pro chef to whip it up, and the ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. I love how it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy evenings. Let’s dive into why this creamy delight is a must-try and how you can make it perfectly every time.

Why People Love This Cream of Chicken Sauce

This cream of chicken sauce is a crowd-pleaser because it’s rich without being heavy. Its smooth texture and savory flavor elevate any dish it touches. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients.

The sauce strikes a perfect balance of creamy and savory. It’s comforting, like a homemade meal from childhood, but versatile enough for modern dishes. People love how it pairs with everything from chicken to pasta.

It’s also customizable, letting you tweak it to your taste. Add herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine for a twist. This flexibility makes it a staple in many kitchens.

Finally, it’s a time-saver. You can whip it up while your main dish cooks. Its quick prep and big flavor make it a weeknight hero.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this cream of chicken sauce, gather these simple ingredients. Most are pantry staples, so you won’t need a big shopping trip. Here’s what you’ll need for about 4 servings:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness

Kitchen Tools Required

You don’t need fancy equipment to make this sauce. A few basic tools will do the trick. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Optional: fine mesh strainer for extra smoothness

How to Make Cream of Chicken Sauce

This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes. Follow these steps for a silky, flavorful sauce. Each step is straightforward to ensure success.

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Place your saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden. This forms the base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Milk

Add the heavy cream and milk to the pan. Whisk gently to combine everything. The sauce will start to look creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency. If using Parmesan, stir it in now.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.

Step 8: Strain (Optional)

For an extra-smooth texture, pour the sauce through a fine mesh strainer. This removes any tiny lumps. Serve immediately or keep warm until ready.

Tips for the Perfect Cream of Chicken Sauce

To make your sauce shine, keep these tips in mind. They’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and enhance the flavor.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and cream make a big difference in taste. Avoid substituting with margarine or low-fat alternatives.
• Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps in your roux and ensures a smooth sauce. Don’t skip this step!
• Adjust thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or broth. If too thin, simmer it longer.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh parsley, rosemary, or a pinch of paprika can add a unique twist.
• Store properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat.

Serving Suggestions

This cream of chicken sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

1. Over Roasted Chicken: Drizzle it over grilled or baked chicken breasts for a restaurant-quality meal.
2. With Pasta: Toss it with fettuccine or penne for a creamy pasta dish. Add veggies like broccoli for extra nutrition.
3. On Mashed Potatoes: Spoon it over fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food combo.
4. With Veggies: Use it as a dipping sauce for steamed asparagus or roasted carrots. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
5. In Casseroles: Incorporate it into chicken or veggie casseroles for added creaminess.

For inspiration on pairing sauces with dishes, check out this guide on sauce pairings.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 1/2 cup) of the cream of chicken sauce. Values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Note: Adding Parmesan cheese will increase calories and sodium slightly.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover sauce can be stored for later use. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the sauce on low heat in a saucepan. Stir frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to curdle. If you must use a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir often.

Variations to Try

This cream of chicken sauce is easy to customize. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Mushroom Cream Sauce: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the butter before adding flour. It adds an earthy depth.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a subtle heat.
• Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or dill at the end for a burst of freshness.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar or Gruyère for a richer flavor.

Summary

This cream of chicken sauce recipe is a game-changer for home cooks. It’s quick, versatile, and bursting with creamy, savory goodness. With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes, you can create a sauce that elevates any dish. Whether you’re serving it over chicken, pasta, or veggies, it’s sure to impress.

The recipe’s simplicity makes it perfect for beginners, while its flexibility appeals to seasoned cooks. Store leftovers for quick meals or freeze for later. Try the variations to keep things exciting. This sauce will become a staple in your kitchen!

FAQ

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half works, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. Adjust with a bit more butter for creaminess.

How can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Whisk carefully to avoid lumps.

Can I freeze the sauce?
Absolutely, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of milk or chicken broth while stirring. Heat gently until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I add wine to this sauce?
Yes, add 1/4 cup of white wine after the roux. Let it simmer to cook off the alcohol before adding cream.

Cream of Chicken Sauce Recipe

Saima

This cream of chicken sauce recipe is a quick, versatile addition to any meal, transforming dishes with its rich, creamy texture. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for drizzling over chicken, pasta, or veggies. With simple pantry ingredients, it’s easy for beginners yet adaptable for seasoned cooks. The sauce balances savory and comforting flavors, making it a weeknight staple. Customize it with herbs or cheese for extra flair. It’s sure to become a kitchen favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Sauce

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

• Medium Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Optional: fine mesh strainer

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk whole or 2% works best
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness

Instructions

 

Step 1: Melt the Butter

• Place your saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly.

Step 2: Create the Roux

• Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden. This forms the base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth

• Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Milk

• Add the heavy cream and milk to the pan. Whisk gently to combine everything. The sauce will start to look creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

• Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

• Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency. If using Parmesan, stir it in now.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

• Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.

Step 8: Strain (Optional)

• For an extra-smooth texture, pour the sauce through a fine mesh strainer. This removes any tiny lumps. Serve immediately or keep warm until ready.

Notes

When making this cream of chicken sauce, whisk constantly to avoid lumps in the roux. Use fresh butter and cream for the best flavor, and don’t rush the simmering step to achieve the perfect thickness. Adjust seasonings to taste, and reheat gently to maintain its creamy texture.

Keyword Cream of Chicken Sauce, Cream of Chicken Sauce Recipe