Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup Substitutes: Complete Guide
Find the best gluten-free substitutes for cream of chicken soup including safe, certified, and homemade options. Perfect for celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.
Quick Answer
The best gluten-free substitutes for cream of chicken soup are Coconut Cream + Chicken Broth + Arrowroot, Almond Milk + Chicken Broth + Cornstarch, and Homemade with Gluten-Free Flour. These avoid wheat flour while maintaining creamy texture.
Best Substitutes
Coconut Cream + Chicken Broth + Arrowroot
1 cup coconut cream + 1/2 cup broth + 2 tbsp arrowrootRich, gluten-free substitute thickened with arrowroot powder. Provides excellent creaminess and binding properties.
Best for:
Use full-fat coconut cream. Mix arrowroot with cold liquid first to avoid lumps. Adds slight coconut flavor.
Almond Milk + Chicken Broth + Cornstarch
1 cup almond milk + 1/2 cup broth + 2 tbsp cornstarchLight, gluten-free substitute thickened with cornstarch. Works well for lighter preparations.
Best for:
Use unsweetened almond milk. Mix cornstarch with cold liquid first to avoid lumps.
Homemade with Gluten-Free Flour
1:1Control ingredients and ensure gluten-free status. Use certified gluten-free flour blends for thickening.
Best for:
Mix 1 cup chicken broth + 1/2 cup milk + 2 tbsp gluten-free flour + seasonings. Use certified GF flour.
Rice Flour + Chicken Broth + Milk
1 cup milk + 1/2 cup broth + 2 tbsp rice flourTraditional gluten-free substitute using rice flour for thickening. Provides smooth, creamy texture.
Best for:
Use fine rice flour. Mix with cold liquid first to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened.
Tapioca Starch + Chicken Broth + Milk
1 cup milk + 1/2 cup broth + 2 tbsp tapioca starchGluten-free substitute with excellent thickening properties. Creates smooth, glossy texture.
Best for:
Mix tapioca starch with cold liquid first. Heat until thickened and glossy.
Potato Starch + Chicken Broth + Milk
1 cup milk + 1/2 cup broth + 2 tbsp potato starchGluten-free substitute with neutral flavor and good binding properties. Works well in most recipes.
Best for:
Mix potato starch with cold liquid first. Heat until thickened. Don't overheat as it can break down.
Xanthan Gum + Chicken Broth + Milk
1 cup milk + 1/2 cup broth + 1/2 tsp xanthan gumPowerful gluten-free thickener that requires very small amounts. Provides excellent binding and texture.
Best for:
Use very small amounts - start with 1/4 tsp and add more if needed. Mix well to avoid clumping.
Cauliflower Puree + Chicken Broth
1 cup puree + 1/2 cup brothNaturally gluten-free substitute that provides creaminess without any thickeners. Low-calorie and nutrient-dense.
Best for:
Steam cauliflower until tender, then puree until smooth. Season well with herbs and spices.
Cooking Tips
- 💡Always use certified gluten-free ingredients to avoid cross-contamination
- 💡Mix gluten-free thickeners with cold liquid first to prevent lumps
- 💡Arrowroot and cornstarch work best for clear, smooth sauces
- 💡Rice flour provides the most traditional texture and flavor
- 💡Xanthan gum is very powerful - use sparingly to avoid gummy texture
- 💡For best results, simmer gluten-free substitutes longer than wheat-based versions
- 💡Always taste and adjust seasonings when using gluten-free substitutes
- 💡For casseroles, gluten-free substitutes may need slightly longer baking time
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gluten-free substitute for cream of chicken soup?
The best gluten-free substitutes are Coconut Cream + Chicken Broth + Arrowroot (dairy-free), Almond Milk + Chicken Broth + Cornstarch (light option), or Homemade with Gluten-Free Flour (traditional texture).
Can I use cornstarch instead of flour for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, cornstarch is an excellent gluten-free thickener. Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with cold liquid first, then add to your soup base. It provides smooth, clear thickening without gluten.
What's a good dairy-free and gluten-free substitute for cream of chicken soup?
For both dairy-free and gluten-free needs, use Coconut Cream + Chicken Broth + Arrowroot, Almond Milk + Chicken Broth + Cornstarch, or Cauliflower Puree + Chicken Broth.
Can I make homemade gluten-free cream of chicken soup?
Yes, make it using chicken broth, milk, and gluten-free flour (like rice flour or a GF blend). Mix 1 cup broth + 1/2 cup milk + 2 tbsp GF flour + seasonings, then simmer until thickened.
What's the best gluten-free flour for cream of chicken soup?
Rice flour provides the most traditional texture, while gluten-free all-purpose flour blends work well for general use. For clear sauces, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
Can I use arrowroot powder instead of flour?
Yes, arrowroot powder is an excellent gluten-free thickener. Use 2 tablespoons per cup of liquid. Mix with cold liquid first, then heat until thickened. It provides clear, smooth results.
What's a good substitute for cream of chicken soup in gluten-free casseroles?
For gluten-free casseroles, use Homemade with Gluten-Free Flour, Rice Flour + Chicken Broth + Milk, or Coconut Cream + Chicken Broth + Arrowroot. All provide the binding needed for casseroles.
Is there a keto-friendly gluten-free substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Yes, use Xanthan Gum + Chicken Broth + Heavy Cream, or Coconut Cream + Chicken Broth + Xanthan Gum. Both are low-carb and gluten-free while providing excellent binding properties.
Summary
Find the best gluten-free substitutes for cream of chicken soup including safe, certified, and homemade options. Perfect for celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.