Creamy Chicken Soup Recipe

Craving a warm and comforting meal that's easy to make? This Creamy Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, velvety broth, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you just want something soul-soothing. Whether you're cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is simple to make and guaranteed to please.

this Recipe

What is Creamy Chicken Soup?

Creamy Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken, vegetables, and a luscious, thick broth. The soup is typically made with chicken broth, a medley of vegetables, shredded chicken, and a rich cream base. The result is a deliciously smooth and velvety texture that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s the perfect dish when you're feeling under the weather or when you simply want something warm and cozy.

This versatile soup is often served with crusty bread or crackers and can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences.

Ingredients List for Creamy Chicken Soup

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make a pot of Creamy Chicken Soup:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
• Chicken Broth: 6 cups, preferably low-sodium to control the saltiness
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup for a rich and creamy texture
• Carrots: 2 medium, diced
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Butter: 3 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables
• All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup to thicken the soup
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for cooking the chicken
• Bay Leaf: 1 for added depth of flavor
• Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt & Pepper: To taste
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional)

Ingredients List for Creamy Chicken Soup (Dairy-Free)

For a dairy-free version, simply swap out the cream and butter for these alternatives:

• Coconut Milk: 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk for the cream
• Olive Oil: Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing
• Chicken Broth: Same as the original recipe
• Vegetables: Same as the original recipe
• Thickener: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch (2 tablespoons mixed with water) instead of flour for thickening.
• Keto/Low-Carb: Skip the flour altogether and thicken the soup by blending a portion of the cooked vegetables with some broth.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with diced potatoes or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or kale for extra nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this Creamy Chicken Soup:

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Shred the chicken with two forks.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the soup. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.

4. Add the Herbs and Simmer

Add the bay leaf and thyme to the pot, along with the shredded chicken. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Stir in the Cream

Once the soup has simmered, stir in the heavy cream. Continue to cook on low heat for another 5 minutes, letting the soup become rich and creamy. If the soup is too thick, you can add an extra splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

6. Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme as needed. If you like a bit of brightness, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

7. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

How to Cook Creamy Chicken Soup: A Quick Summary

1. Cook the Chicken: Sear chicken in olive oil, then shred and set aside.
2. Sauté Veggies: Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter.
3. Make a Roux: Stir in flour to thicken the soup, then whisk in chicken broth.
4. Simmer: Add chicken, thyme, and bay leaf, then simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add Cream: Stir in cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to help you avoid common mistakes:

• Curdling the Cream: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream. Keep the soup on medium-low heat to maintain a smooth texture.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Make sure the vegetables are softened but not mushy. Sautéing them first helps retain their texture and flavor.
• Thickening Too Much: If your soup is too thick after adding the flour, simply add more chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Creamy Chicken Soup, make sure to present it beautifully:

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Soup

• Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a light green salad or Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Grilled Cheese: A gooey grilled cheese sandwich makes a great pairing with this soup.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Chicken Soup

• Garnish: Top each bowl with fresh parsley, thyme, or dill for a pop of color.
• Cheese: Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar on top for extra richness.
• Croutons: Garnish with homemade croutons for added texture and crunch.

Creamy Chicken Soup Recipe Tips

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Soup turns out perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley will add an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
• Don't Rush the Roux: Cooking the flour for at least a minute will prevent any raw flour taste and help create a smooth texture.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas for a nutritional boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze creamy chicken soup?

Yes, you can freeze creamy chicken soup, though soups with dairy may separate slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, stir well and add a little extra broth if needed to restore the creamy texture.

2. How long does creamy chicken soup last in the fridge?

This soup will last for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make creamy chicken soup in a slow cooker, add the chicken, broth, vegetables, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then remove and shred the chicken. Stir in the cream and let it warm through for another 10-15 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, hearty, and flavorful meal perfect for any day. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is great for family dinners, meal prep, or serving guests. Whether you're warming up on a chilly night or simply craving a bowl of something satisfying, this soup is sure to deliver. Enjoy!

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