As the leaves turn and the air cools, there’s nothing more satisfying than a bowl of Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup. This rustic and hearty dish is packed with nourishing ingredients, offering a comforting embrace with each spoonful. The blend of tender chicken, creamy broth, and garden-fresh vegetables makes it a perfect choice for those chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Carrots: 2 large, chopped
- Garlic: 2 large cloves, minced
- Flour: 2 tablespoons (to thicken)
- Potatoes: 2 large, diced
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 6 cups
- Chicken thighs: 4 boneless, skinless (can substitute with chicken breast)
- Thyme: 1 sprig fresh (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Broccoli florets: 1 cup, cut into small pieces
- Peas: 1/2 cup (fresh or frozen)
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (optional, for richness)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Directions:
- Prep the Base: In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Thicken the Soup: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the floury taste.
- Add the Main Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to incorporate the flour into the broth. Add the chicken thighs and thyme sprig. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot, chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces once cool. Discard the thyme sprig.
- Finish with Vegetables and Seasoning: Return the chicken to the pot and add broccoli and peas. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and season with salt and pepper!
- Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Recipe Overview
Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a quintessential comfort food perfect for any season but especially soothing during the fall and winter months. This recipe brings together a hearty ensemble of chicken and vibrant vegetables, enveloped in a velvety, creamy broth, making it not only satisfying but also nourishing.
Health Benefits
This soup is packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables and lean protein from the chicken, making it a balanced meal that can help support a healthy diet. The carrots and broccoli provide vitamins and antioxidants, while the chicken offers a good source of protein essential for muscle repair and growth. Using low-sodium chicken broth helps keep the sodium content in check, making this dish a heart-healthy option.
Cooking Tips
- Butter Substitute: For a lighter version, you can substitute butter with olive oil, which offers a healthier type of fat.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a gluten-free option, cornstarch can be used in place of flour to thicken the soup. Use half the amount of cornstarch as you would flour.
- Cream Options: To reduce fat, you might opt for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, which provides a rich texture without the heaviness of traditional cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup can be served as a main dish with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad to round out the meal. For a heartier dinner, serve it alongside a sandwich or a grilled cheese, making for a classic combination that’s particularly appealing on chilly evenings.
Storage and Reheating
The soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a little extra broth while reheating can help maintain the creamy consistency.
Customization Ideas
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms to the soup to vary the flavor and nutrient profile.
- Protein Variations: Apart from chicken, you can use turkey or even sausage to add different flavors. For a vegetarian version, consider adding beans or lentils instead of chicken.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, adding spices such as paprika, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor.
This recipe for Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup is designed to be adaptable and is sure to be a hit among all ages, making it a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire and a cherished dish in your culinary collection.