If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners, look no further than Chicken Pot Pie Soup. This delightful soup combines all the flavors of a classic chicken pot pie into a creamy and hearty bowl of goodness. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich broth, it’s no wonder this dish quickly becomes a family favorite.
Making Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. You can whip it up in just under an hour using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The creamy texture and savory flavor profile make it perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something comforting. Plus, this recipe allows you to get creative—feel free to add your favorite herbs or additional veggies to suit your family’s taste.
What makes this Chicken Pot Pie Soup truly special is its versatility. It’s great for lunch or dinner and can easily be stored for later use. With each spoonful, you’ll experience the warmth and heartiness that only homemade food can provide. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish that brings the essence of a classic pot pie right into a bowl!
Main Ingredients
Chicken
For this recipe, you will need 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach your own for fresh flavor. The chicken provides protein and adds substance to the soup, making it filling and satisfying.
Vegetables
Use 1 cup each of diced carrots and celery along with 1 cup of frozen peas. These vegetables add color and nutrition to the dish. Carrots offer sweetness while celery provides crunch; together they create a beautiful base for any soup.
Onion
One medium onion (about 1 cup diced) is essential for building depth in flavor. Sautéing onions at the beginning releases their natural sweetness which enhances the overall taste of the Chicken Pot Pie Soup.</p>
Garlic
Three cloves of minced garlic will elevate your soup’s flavor profile significantly. Garlic adds an aromatic element that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Chicken Broth
Four cups of low-sodium chicken broth form the base of this soup. Using low-sodium helps control salt levels while still delivering rich flavor.
Heavy Cream
Add 1 cup of heavy cream to achieve that luscious creaminess characteristic of pot pie filling. This ingredient transforms your broth into a hearty sauce that coats every bite.
Seasonings
You’ll need salt, black pepper, thyme (fresh or dried), and bay leaves to season your soup properly. These spices enhance flavors without overwhelming them—perfect for achieving balance.
How to Prepare Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Step 1: Sautéing Aromatics
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add your diced onion and sauté until translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute to avoid burning it; you want it fragrant but not browned.
Next, incorporate diced carrots and celery into the mix; cook everything together until they soften slightly—around another 5 minutes should do it! This step ensures that all those delicious flavors meld before adding liquid ingredients.
Step 2: Adding Broth and Seasonings
Once your vegetables are softened enough, pour in four cups of low-sodium chicken broth while scraping any bits stuck on the bottom of the pan—this adds even more flavor! Afterward, toss in shredded cooked chicken along with seasonings like salt (to taste), black pepper (to taste), thyme (1 teaspoon), and two bay leaves.
Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat so it simmers gently—let it cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes allowing flavors to combine beautifully! Remember to stir occasionally during this time; eventuating those scrumptious tastes throughout!
Step 3: Adding Creaminess
After simmering for around 15 minutes now is when we transform our soup into something truly indulgent! Start pouring one cup of heavy cream into your simmered mixture slowly while stirring continuously—this creates that velvety texture we adore! If you’d like more thickness feel free to add additional cream but avoid overdoing as too much could mask other flavors!
Let everything come back up just below boiling then check seasoning once again adjusting if necessary before removing from heat entirely! Discard bay leaves prior serving—they’ve done their job infusing aroma but aren’t meant for consumption!
Step 4: Serving Your Delicious Creation
Now comes one of my favorite parts—serving! Ladle generous portions into bowls ensuring each serving has ample chunks of veggies/chicken within its creamy embrace—it’s visually appealing too!
For an added touch sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top before serving alongside crusty bread or flaky biscuits—you’ll find them perfect companions enhancing both presentation & taste!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
When serving
Chicken Pot Pie Soup consider pairing it with warm crusty bread or flaky biscuits as they complement the creamy texture perfectly! For an extra touch sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before diving in—the colors brighten up presentation while adding freshness.
You can also serve this soup in bread bowls for an even more rustic feel—a fun twist that impresses guests during gatherings! Remember though portion sizes; keep servings moderate so everyone gets seconds if desired without feeling overly stuffed!
Another idea? Create an interactive meal by setting out toppings such as croutons or shredded cheese allowing family members/friends personalize their bowls according preferences—it encourages conversation too!
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Pot Pie Soup stores wonderfully well making our lives easier later on busy days! Allow leftovers cool completely before transferring them into airtight containers storing them either refrigerated (for up three days) or frozen (for up six months).
To reheat simply place desired amount back on stovetop over medium-low heat stirring occasionally until warmed through again—it’s almost as good as freshly made!
For best results consider freezing individual portions—they thaw quickly when needed providing convenient meals without hassle preparation time involved initially after making first batch! Enjoy comfort whenever cravings arise simply by reheating leftovers readily available at home any day week ahead!
Tips and tricks
To create the best Chicken Pot Pie Soup, follow these tips that ensure a delicious outcome every time. Start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes elevate the flavor of your soup. Use homemade or good-quality store-bought chicken broth to enhance the taste. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, it can save time and add flavor.
Next, focus on the cooking technique. Sautéing the vegetables in butter before adding broth brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Make sure to cook them until they are tender but still vibrant in color. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavors in your Chicken Pot Pie Soup.
Don’t forget seasoning! A pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way, but don’t stop there. Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the soup and elevate its flavors even more.
Lastly, texture plays a key role in your soup’s enjoyment. For a creamy consistency, incorporate heavy cream or a roux made from flour and butter. This will give your Chicken Pot Pie Soup that classic velvety feel reminiscent of traditional pot pie filling.
Suggestions for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Avoid common mistakes when making Chicken Pot Pie Soup to ensure you achieve a flavorful dish. One major mistake is not properly preparing your chicken. If you use uncooked chicken straight into the pot without browning it first, you miss out on rich flavors that develop during searing. Browning the chicken adds depth to your soup.
Another frequent error is undercooking or overcooking vegetables. Under-cooked vegetables can be hard and unappetizing while overcooked ones turn mushy and lose their nutrients. Aim to sauté them just until tender, allowing them to retain their structure throughout cooking.
Moreover, don’t skip on thickening agents. If you want a hearty consistency in your Chicken Pot Pie Soup, neglecting to add flour or cornstarch can result in a watery dish lacking substance. Create a roux or slurry before adding it to your soup for the desired thickness.
Failing to let the soup simmer adequately can also lead to disappointment. Simmering allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together; rushing this step often leads to bland results. Give your soup time—at least 30 minutes—to develop those rich flavors.
FAQs
What is Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a comforting dish that combines all the flavors of classic chicken pot pie into a hearty soup form. It typically features chunks of chicken, assorted vegetables such as carrots and peas, and a creamy broth flavored with herbs and spices. The idea is to create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for chilly days.
How do I thicken Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
To thicken Chicken Pot Pie Soup effectively, consider using either a roux made from equal parts flour and butter cooked together or cornstarch mixed with water (a slurry). Stirring either thickening agent into the simmering soup will yield a nice consistency without clumping if done properly.
Can I make Chicken Pot Pie Soup ahead of time?
Yes! Making Chicken Pot Pie Soup ahead of time is not only possible but also convenient. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. Just be aware that some ingredients may alter texture after freezing; fresh vegetables might become softer upon reheating.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives to heavy cream in your Chicken Pot Pie Soup, consider using half-and-half or whole milk mixed with flour for added thickness without too much fat content. For dairy-free options, coconut milk works well; just be mindful of its distinct flavor that may alter the overall taste slightly.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are an excellent alternative when making Chicken Pot Pie Soup as they are pre-washed and cut, saving preparation time significantly while still retaining nutrients through flash-freezing techniques. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to maintain proper cooking times.
How do I store leftover Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
To store leftover efficiently, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can last up to three days in the refrigerator or up to three months when frozen—just remember to label containers with dates so you know when they were made!
Conclusion
In summary, making delicious Chicken Pot Pie Soup requires attention to detail from ingredient selection down through cooking techniques and storage methods after preparation. Utilize fresh ingredients whenever possible for optimal flavor enhancement while ensuring proper preparation techniques avoid common pitfalls like undercooked veggies or missed thickening opportunities.
Additionally, take advantage of tools such as slow cookers or Instant Pots if you’re pressed for time—these devices streamline cooking processes effectively while still delivering tasty results! Keep these tips in mind as they’ll help you craft a warm bowl bursting with comforting flavors reminiscent of traditional chicken pot pie every single time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
PrintDelicious Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 Servings 1x
Description
A creamy, comforting soup that tastes just like the classic chicken pot pie but in a bowl! Loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this soup is perfect for cozy nights or a hearty lunch.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 sheet puff pastry or 2 pre-made pie crusts (optional for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, milk, peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of milk to make a slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the soup while stirring to thicken. Let it cook for another 5-7 minutes until the soup is thick and creamy.
- Stir in the heavy cream for added richness and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- (Optional) For a “crust” garnish: Cut the puff pastry or pie crust into strips or shapes and bake according to package instructions, then place them on top of the soup before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- If you want to make the soup extra creamy, you can substitute half-and-half for the whole milk.
- For a heartier version, you can serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a small salad.
- You can easily freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool before freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes