Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup – Creamy and Comforting

Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is a rich, comforting, and versatile soup that’s perfect for those avoiding dairy. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, have a dairy allergy, follow a vegan lifestyle, or just want a healthier version of the classic cream of chicken soup, this recipe is for you.

By using non-dairy milk alternatives like coconut, almond, or oat milk, you can achieve the same creamy texture without any dairy. Plus, this soup is naturally gluten-free and can be customized to suit different dietary needs.

Why Choose Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup?

Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is not only for those with dairy restrictions but also for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, healthier version of this classic comfort food. Here’s why:

Health Benefits of Going Dairy-Free

Choosing a dairy-free lifestyle can offer several health benefits, including:

✅ Who Benefits Most:

• People with Lactose Intolerance – Unable to digest lactose, leading to bloating and discomfort.
• Those with Dairy Allergies – Allergic to proteins in dairy, such as casein or whey.
• Vegan and Plant-Based Eaters – Avoiding all animal products, including dairy.
• Health-conscious individuals looking to reduce saturated fat and calories.

Who Should Eat Non-Dairy Soups?

While non-dairy soups are essential for certain dietary needs, they’re also beneficial for general wellness.

✅ Tip: Choose non-dairy options labeled as unsweetened to avoid added sugars, especially in savory soups.

Comforting and Versatile Uses of Cream of Chicken Soup

Cream of Chicken Soup isn’t just for eating by the bowlful. It’s also a versatile ingredient in many recipes, including:

• Casseroles – Adds a creamy base to dishes like chicken and rice casserole.
• Pot Pies – Serves as the rich, flavorful filling for chicken pot pies.
• Pasta Bakes – Coats noodles in a creamy sauce for comforting pasta dishes.
• Slow Cooker Meals – Enhances flavor and moisture in slow-cooked chicken dishes.
• Gravy or Sauce Base – Works as a flavorful sauce over mashed potatoes or vegetables.

✅ Why It’s Special: Non-dairy cream of chicken soup recreates the richness and versatility of the traditional version without any dairy, making it suitable for a variety of recipes and dietary needs.

Ingredients Needed for Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup

The key to a delicious Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is using high-quality, fresh ingredients and the right non-dairy milk alternatives for the perfect creamy texture.

Best Non-Dairy Milk Alternatives

To achieve the creamy consistency of traditional cream of chicken soup, choose a non-dairy milk that is rich and neutral in flavor. Here are the best options:

✅ Best choice: Coconut milk for an ultra-creamy texture or oat milk for a neutral flavor.

Tip: Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest texture or unsweetened oat milk for a lighter option.

Fresh Vegetables and Herbs for Flavor

For a flavorful and aromatic soup, use a combination of fresh vegetables and herbs:

• Onions and Garlic – Adds depth and savory flavor.
• Celery and Carrots – Enhances sweetness and provides a traditional base.
• Fresh Thyme and Parsley – Brings aromatic and herbal notes.
• Bay Leaf – Adds complexity to the broth.

✅ Pro Tip: Sauté the vegetables before adding the broth to release their natural sweetness and enhance flavor.

Gluten-Free and Thickening Options

To achieve the creamy texture of traditional cream of chicken soup without gluten, use these alternatives:

✅ Best choice: Arrowroot powder for gluten-free, smooth thickening without altering flavor.

Tip: Add thickeners gradually and whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps.

How to Make Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup

Making Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is easy and rewarding. This recipe uses fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy non-dairy milk to create a rich, flavorful, and allergy-friendly version of this classic comfort food.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or coconut oil for richer flavor)
• 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth (check for gluten-free label)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk (or unsweetened oat milk)
• 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
• Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set aside.

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
• Sauté until tender (about 5 minutes) and fragrant.

1. Combine and Simmer

• Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
• Add gluten-free chicken broth, dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

1. Thicken the Soup

• In a small bowl, whisk the arrowroot powder with ¼ cup water to make a slurry.
• Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering soup, mixing well to avoid lumps.
• Pour in the coconut milk (or oat milk) and stir until well combined.
• Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens.

1. Finish and Serve

• Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

✅ Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is perfect on its own or as a base for casseroles, pot pies, or pasta dishes.

Tips for Achieving a Creamy Texture Without Dairy

To make the perfect bowl of creamy, non-dairy chicken soup, follow these tips:

• Choose the Right Non-Dairy Milk: For a rich and creamy texture, use full-fat coconut milk. For a lighter option, choose unsweetened oat milk.
• Thicken Gradually: Always mix arrowroot powder or cornstarch with cold water before adding to the hot soup to prevent lumps.
• Blend for Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, blend half of the soup and return it to the pot. This technique works well with oat milk or almond milk.
• Sauté the Vegetables First: This enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.

✅ Pro Tip: If using coconut milk, choose one with no added sugar or stabilizers for the best creamy texture.

Variations and Creative Twists

One of the great things about Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences.

Vegan Version with Plant-Based Protein

For a vegan version that’s just as delicious and creamy, make the following swaps:

• Replace Chicken with Chickpeas or Tofu: Use 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed) or cubed firm tofu for plant-based protein.
• Use Vegetable Broth: Substitute gluten-free vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Extra Veggies for Flavor: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.

✅ Best choice: Chickpeas for a hearty, protein-rich vegan alternative.

Tip: Sauté the chickpeas or tofu first for a crisp, flavorful bite.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Adaptations

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, make these adjustments:

• Replace Carrots with Cauliflower: Use diced cauliflower instead of carrots for fewer carbs.
• Thicken with Cream Cheese Alternative: Use a dairy-free cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Daiya) for a rich, creamy texture without extra carbs.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Add zucchini noodles as a low-carb twist for a more filling meal.

✅ Pro Tip: Use unsweetened coconut milk for a keto-friendly creamy base.

Adding Extra Veggies or Superfoods

Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding:

• Spinach or Kale – For extra greens and vitamins.
• Mushrooms – Adds umami and heartiness.
• Turmeric and Ginger – Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting spices.
• Nutritional Yeast – Adds a cheesy, umami flavor and is rich in B vitamins.

✅ Best combination: Spinach, mushrooms, and turmeric for an immune-boosting, nutrient-rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is simple, but a few common mistakes can impact the flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

Choosing the Wrong Non-Dairy Milk

Why It Happens:

• Not all non-dairy milks are suitable for savory dishes. Some have a sweet flavor or thin consistency, which can alter the taste and texture of the soup.
• Using sweetened or flavored non-dairy milk (like vanilla almond milk) can result in an unpleasantly sweet soup.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose unsweetened, neutral-flavored non-dairy milk for savory recipes.
• The best choices for this soup are:
• Coconut Milk – For a rich, creamy texture.
• Oat Milk – For a neutral flavor and smooth consistency.
• Cashew Milk – For an ultra-creamy, velvety texture.
• Avoid almond milk if you don’t want a nutty undertone.

✅ Best Tip: Always check the label for unsweetened and unflavored varieties to maintain the savory profile of the soup.

Over-Thickening or Curdling the Soup

Why It Happens:

• Adding too much arrowroot powder or cornstarch can result in a pasty or gelatinous texture.
• High heat can cause non-dairy milk to curdle or separate, especially almond and oat milk.

How to Avoid It:

• Use the right amount of thickener: Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust gradually.
• Mix thickener with cold water first to make a slurry, then slowly add it to the simmering soup while stirring constantly.
• Avoid boiling the soup after adding non-dairy milk. Instead, simmer on low heat to maintain a smooth texture.

✅ Pro Tip: If the soup becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of extra broth until the desired consistency is reached.

Using Low-Quality Broth

The quality of the broth greatly impacts the flavor of Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose a high-quality gluten-free chicken broth or make your own for the best flavor.
• Look for low-sodium options to control the saltiness and adjust seasoning to taste.
• Homemade chicken broth adds the richest flavor and nutritional benefits.

✅ Recommendation: Use homemade chicken broth or a trusted brand like Pacific Foods or Kettle & Fire for a full-bodied, flavorful base.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup

Can I Make It Ahead of Time and Freeze It?

Yes! Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is great for meal prepping and freezing, but keep these tips in mind:

• Cool Completely Before Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave Out the Coconut Milk: For the best texture, omit the coconut milk before freezing and add it when reheating.
• Store for Up to 3 Months: Properly stored, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Add coconut milk or other non-dairy milk during reheating for a fresh, creamy texture.

✅ Pro Tip: For a quick meal, freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.

How to Store and Reheat Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Avoid freezing the coconut milk, as it can separate and become grainy when thawed.

Reheating Tips:

• On the Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not boil, as this can cause the non-dairy milk to curdle.
• In the Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

✅ Pro Tip: Add a splash of extra broth when reheating to refresh the soup and maintain the desired consistency.

Can I Use This Soup as a Substitute for Canned Cream of Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! This non-dairy version works perfectly as a substitute for canned cream of chicken soup in recipes like:

• Casseroles – Adds a creamy base for chicken and rice casseroles.
• Pot Pies – Serves as the rich, flavorful filling for chicken pot pies.
• Pasta Bakes – Coats noodles in a creamy sauce for comforting pasta dishes.
• Slow Cooker Meals – Enhances flavor and moisture in slow-cooked chicken dishes.

✅ Best Tip: Reduce the broth to make a thicker, condensed version that closely matches the consistency of canned cream of chicken soup.

Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! This recipe is versatile and can be adapted for both the slow cooker and Instant Pot:

• Slow Cooker Method:
• Add chicken, vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Shred the chicken and stir in the coconut milk and arrowroot slurry before serving.
• Instant Pot Method:
• Use the Sauté function to cook the vegetables and sear the chicken.
• Add broth and seasonings, then cook on Manual/High Pressure for 10 minutes.
• Quick release, shred the chicken, and stir in the coconut milk and arrowroot slurry.

✅ Pro Tip: For the best texture, always add the thickener and non-dairy milk after pressure cooking.

Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup – Creamy and Comforting

---

• Author: SOUKAINA
• Total Time: 45 min
• Yield: 4–6 serving 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of goodness made without any dairy. Using coconut milk or oat milk, it achieves a velvety texture while being lactose-free, gluten-free, and perfect for dairy allergies or vegan adaptations. Enjoy as a standalone soup or as a versatile ingredient for casseroles, pot pies, and more!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or coconut oil for richer flavor)
• 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth (check for gluten-free label)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk (or unsweetened oat milk)
• 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
   • Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
   • Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

   • In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
   • Sauté until tender (about 5 minutes) and fragrant.

3. Combine and Simmer

   • Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
   • Add gluten-free chicken broth, dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   • Simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

4. Thicken the Soup

   • In a small bowl, whisk the arrowroot powder with ¼ cup water to make a slurry.
   • Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering soup, mixing well to avoid lumps.
   • Pour in the coconut milk (or oat milk) and stir until well combined.
   • Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens.

5. Finish and Serve

   • Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

• Tip: Choose unsweetened, neutral-flavored non-dairy milk for the best savory taste.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without the coconut milk and add it when reheating for the best texture.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
• Variations: For a vegan version, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.

• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 30 min
• Category: Soup; Confort Food
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 Bowl
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup, Dairy-Free Cream of Chicken, Lactose-Free Chicken Soup, Coconut Milk Chicken Soup, Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is the perfect combination of comfort, nutrition, and allergy-friendly goodness. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just looking for a healthier alternative, this recipe offers a creamy, satisfying bowl of comfort.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Choose the right non-dairy milk (coconut or oat milk) for the best creamy texture.
✔ Use gluten-free chicken broth and arrowroot powder for thickening.
✔ Experiment with variations, like vegan chickpeas, low-carb cauliflower, or nutrient-rich superfoods.
✔ Perfect for meal prep – store the soup without coconut milk and add it when reheating.

This Non-Dairy Cream of Chicken Soup is not only delicious and comforting but also versatile and nutritious, perfect for any occasion.

Ready to try this creamy, dairy-free comfort food? Gather your ingredients and enjoy a rich, flavorful bowl of goodness!

Would you like more non-dairy recipes or comfort food adaptations? 🚀