If you love the comfort of a classic chicken pot pie but are looking for a more relaxed, easy-to-make version, then this Chicken Pot Pie Soup recipe is for you. This rich and creamy soup captures all the hearty flavors of the traditional dish but transforms it into a warming bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you're cozying up on a chilly evening or looking to make a quick, comforting meal for the family, this recipe has got you covered. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious soup that will undoubtedly become a staple in your home.
What is Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a comforting, hearty soup that brings together all the beloved flavors of a classic chicken pot pie, but in a warm, creamy, and easy-to-prepare form. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory herbs swimming in a rich, velvety broth, all topped with golden-brown, flaky pastry croutons. This soup captures the essence of the traditional pie but is simpler to prepare and just as satisfying.
Ingredients List for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Creating a delicious Chicken Pot Pie Soup requires a balance of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter: This provides a rich base flavor for sautéing the vegetables and adding depth to the soup.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Onions are essential for adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic qualities.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots contribute a natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery adds a nice crunch and complements the other vegetables well.
- ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour: Flour helps thicken the soup to give it that creamy consistency reminiscent of a classic chicken pot pie filling.
- 4 cups of chicken broth: The broth forms the base of the soup, bringing all the flavors together.
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poached chicken breasts for this soup.
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced: Potatoes add heartiness and help thicken the soup as they cook.
- 1 cup of frozen peas: Peas bring a pop of color and a burst of sweetness.
- 1 cup of frozen corn: Corn adds sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Thyme adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley: Parsley brightens up the flavors and adds a fresh touch.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: Cream makes the soup rich and indulgent, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the soup.
Substitutions and Variations
While the traditional Chicken Pot Pie Soup is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. For the heavy cream, use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, to make it more filling.
- Protein Variations: If you want to switch up the protein, turkey is a great substitute, especially if you have leftovers. You could also use ham or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Flavor Enhancers: For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the soup. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can also be added for a more intense herbal flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more variety and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to turn them into a delicious pot of Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Follow these steps to ensure perfect results every time:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables until they are soft and the onion is translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This step is crucial as it will help thicken the soup later.
- Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Chicken and Potatoes: Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the shredded chicken and diced potatoes. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the Peas and Corn: Stir in the frozen peas and corn. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes to ensure the vegetables are heated through.
- Season and Simmer: Add the dried thyme and parsley to the soup. Stir well and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This will give the soup its rich, creamy consistency.
- Serve Hot: Once the soup is fully cooked and seasoned to your liking, it's ready to serve.
How to Cook Chicken Pot Pie Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Chicken Pot Pie Soup is straightforward, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results:
- Prep All Ingredients Before You Start: Having all your vegetables chopped and your chicken shredded before you start cooking will make the process much smoother and prevent any last-minute scrambling.
- Keep the Heat Consistent: Avoid turning the heat too high, especially when sautéing the vegetables or making the roux. Medium heat works best to avoid burning the butter or flour.
- Stir Frequently: This helps prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures that the flavors are well distributed.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste the soup as it cooks, especially after adding the broth and cream. This is the best time to adjust seasoning.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer after adding the cream helps to marry the flavors together, making the soup even more delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can be easily avoided:
- Skipping the Roux: The roux is crucial for thickening the soup. Skipping it or not cooking the flour long enough can result in a thinner soup that lacks the rich consistency of a pot pie filling.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: Underseasoning is a common mistake. Remember that potatoes, cream, and chicken broth can all absorb a lot of salt and pepper, so don’t be afraid to season generously.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Vegetables like carrots and peas can become mushy if overcooked. Add them at the right time and cook just until tender.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A beautifully presented bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Soup can make the meal feel even more special. Here are some ideas:
- Pastry Croutons: One of the best ways to bring the “pie” aspect into the soup is by making pastry croutons. Simply cut store-bought puff pastry into small squares, bake until golden, and sprinkle them on top of the soup just before serving.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
- Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A warm, buttered roll or a slice of garlic bread complements the soup perfectly.
- Individual Pot Pies: For a more formal presentation, consider baking small rounds of puff pastry separately and placing them on top of individual bowls of soup, mimicking the appearance of a pot pie.
How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Serving Chicken Pot Pie Soup can be as simple or as elegant as you like:
- Family-Style: Serve the soup in a large pot placed in the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves. This is great for casual family dinners.
- Individual Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls, adding pastry croutons and a garnish of fresh herbs on top for a more personalized presentation.
- Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The crusty bread will absorb the soup, making it even more delicious as you eat.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
To elevate the presentation of your Chicken Pot Pie Soup, consider these creative ideas:
- Mini Pot Pies: Make small circles of puff pastry and bake them separately. Place one on top of each soup bowl, giving the appearance of a miniature pot pie.
- Mason Jars: Serve the soup in wide-mouth mason jars for a rustic, cozy feel. Top each jar with a small square of puff pastry or a biscuit.
- Soup Shooter: For a party appetizer, serve the soup in small shooter glasses with a tiny pastry square on top. This is a fun and elegant way to enjoy the soup in small portions.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe Tips
To ensure your Chicken Pot Pie Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Leftover Chicken: This soup is an excellent way to use up leftover chicken from a previous meal. Rotisserie chicken works particularly well.
- Freeze for Later: Chicken Pot Pie Soup freezes well. Make a big batch and freeze in individual portions for easy, comforting meals on busy nights.
- Thicker or Thinner: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly or let the soup simmer longer. For a thinner soup, add a bit more broth or milk.
- Flavor Boost: For added depth of flavor, sauté the vegetables in a bit of bacon fat instead of butter, or add a splash of dry sherry or white wine when you add the broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Chicken Pot Pie Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup is perfect for making ahead. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better as it sits.
Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or a cashew cream would work well.
How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering soup. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as fresh vegetables may take a little longer to cook through.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the best of a classic chicken pot pie into a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make your own variations, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and ease of preparation make it a perfect meal for any night of the week. So why not give it a try? You might find that this Chicken Pot Pie Soup becomes your go-to comfort food, warming your heart and home with every spoonful. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
Warm up with this rich and creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup, made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a blend of thyme and parsley. Perfect for a comforting meal, this soup combines the flavors of a classic chicken pot pie in a deliciously creamy soup form.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken Soup: Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth: Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, corn, thyme, and parsley. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer until the soup is thickened and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Notes
- For a thicker soup: Mash some of the potatoes before adding the chicken and vegetables.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with cornstarch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
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