Looking for a simple, heartwarming dish to warm your soul? Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the answer! This cozy meal combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and rich cream in a delicious blend. With easy steps to follow, you’ll whip up this comfort food faster than you can say “dinner time.” Join me as we explore each ingredient and create a bowlful of happiness that your family will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This soup captures the essence of a classic pot pie, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Options: You can easily customize the vegetables or add herbs to match your taste and what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This soup is a great choice for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even when entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound diced chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or russet)
- 1 cup frozen peas
In this soup, I use diced chicken breasts for a tender bite. The mix of onion, carrots, and celery brings a sweet crunch. Garlic adds a punch of flavor, while the potatoes give it heartiness. Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness.
Seasonings and Thickeners
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For seasonings, I use dried thyme and rosemary. They give a warm, earthy taste. Salt and pepper boost all the flavors. The flour thickens the soup, making it creamy and rich.
Creaminess Factor
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Optional: Puff pastry or biscuits for topping
Heavy cream is the star of this dish. It makes the soup velvety and rich. I also suggest puff pastry or biscuits as toppings. They add a crunchy, buttery contrast that makes each bite delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
To start, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add one pound of diced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. This step gives your soup a great base of flavor.
Cooking the Vegetables
Next, in the same pot, add one medium diced onion, two diced carrots, and two diced celery stalks. Cook the vegetables for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want them to soften but not brown. Then, stir in three minced garlic cloves. Cook for one more minute. This will add a rich flavor to your soup.
Building the Soup Base
Now it's time to create the soup base. Sprinkle a quarter cup of all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables. Stir constantly for about 1 to 2 minutes. This makes a roux, which helps thicken your soup. Slowly pour in four cups of low-sodium chicken broth while stirring. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot. This helps mix in all the tasty bits stuck to the pot.
Finalizing the Soup
Next, add two cups of diced potatoes, one teaspoon of dried thyme, and one teaspoon of dried rosemary. Also, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Then, stir in one cup of frozen peas and one cup of heavy cream. Let it heat through for an additional 5 minutes. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want, you can top it with puff pastry or baked biscuits for a special touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor
To make your soup shine, adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. I love to start with a base of salt and pepper. You can add more as you go. If you want to control the salt, use low-sodium broth. This way, you can build flavor without it being too salty.
Thickening Techniques
A great soup needs the right thickness. To make a roux, mix flour with fat. Stir it well for a couple of minutes. This helps the soup thicken nicely. If you're gluten-free, try cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead. Just mix it with cold water before adding it to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve the soup in deep bowls. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. For a fun twist, place a piece of puff pastry on top of the hot soup. It will melt slightly and create a lovely look and taste.
Pro Tips
- Use Bone-in Chicken: For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of breasts. The bones add depth to the broth while cooking.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary will elevate the flavor profile of your soup. If available, use them instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.
- Thicken to Preference: Adjust the thickness of your soup by varying the amount of flour. For a creamier texture, you can add more heavy cream towards the end.
- Serve with Style: Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for an appealing presentation and added flavor.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the soup to fit your taste. Try using different veggies like corn, green beans, or bell peppers. They add color and flavor. If you want to save time, canned chicken works great too. Just drain it and add it to the soup. This shortcut makes dinner easy without losing taste.
Dietary Modifications
For those who need gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour to make the roux. You can also swap out regular flour with cornstarch mixed with water. This will help thicken your soup. If you want a lighter soup, try using milk substitutes like almond milk or oat milk. These options still give a creamy texture without the extra calories.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, add spices or fresh herbs. Try thyme or basil for a fresh taste. A splash of white wine can also enhance the soup’s richness. Just remember to let it simmer a bit longer to cook off the alcohol. This small change can elevate your soup to a whole new level!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, let the soup cool first. Pour it into an airtight container. Seal it tightly to keep out air and moisture. Place the container in the fridge. The soup stays fresh for up to three days. For best flavor, eat it within this time frame.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup! Use a freezer-safe container for best results. Leave some space at the top, as the soup may expand. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, move the soup to the fridge to thaw overnight.
To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Heat it in short bursts and stir in between. If the soup seems thick, add a little broth or water. Enjoy your comforting soup any time!
FAQs
How long does it take to make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you need about 45 minutes to make this soup. This quick time makes it easy to enjoy a cozy meal on a busy night.
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use leftover chicken! Shred or chop it into small pieces. Add it to the pot when you stir in the potatoes. This saves time and adds great flavor to the soup.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. If you want a dairy-free choice, use coconut milk or almond milk. Each option gives the soup a creamy texture without heavy cream.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup can be frozen! However, the texture may change after thawing. The cream can separate, so stir well before serving. It is best to freeze before adding cream if you want the best texture.
How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin, sprinkle a little more flour into it. Stir well to avoid lumps. You can also blend a small amount of soup and mix it back in for a thicker consistency.
Making Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is easy and fun. You learned about the main ingredients, seasonings, and how to add creaminess. The step-by-step instructions guide you through preparing the chicken and cooking vegetables. Remember to adjust flavors and choose toppings that you enjoy. You can swap ingredients for your taste and store leftovers well. This soup is great for families and can be modified for different diets. Enjoy your cooking and share your favorite versions with others!
