Name: Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons salted butter; 1 cup small-diced carrot; 1 cup small-diced celery; 1 cup small diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken stock; 1 ½ cups small diced Yukon gold potatoes; 1 piece bay leaf; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cooked diced or shredded chicken; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; ½ cup frozen corn; Biscuits for serving; fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Introduction to Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially for busy young professionals juggling work, social lives, and personal projects. Why? It’s effortless to prepare, hearty, and full of nostalgia. While the traditional chicken pot pie requires more time and effort to perfect, this soup version cuts down on the prep and cook time significantly—making it an ideal weeknight meal.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and within less than an hour, you have a creamy and flavorful soup simmering away on the stove. According to a survey by the National Chicken Council, 65% of millennials said they prefer convenience in their meals, and this chicken pot pie soup is a delightful way to satisfy those cravings without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.

Moreover, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it based on what you have in your pantry. Want more veggies? Toss in frozen corn or peas. Running short on time? Use rotisserie chicken for a faster cook. Pair it with flaky biscuits for the perfect finishing touch.

For more tips on meal prepping and quick dinner ideas, check out this guide from EatingWell.

Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Essential ingredients for a hearty soup

To create the ultimate chicken pot pie soup, you'll want to gather some essential ingredients that form the backbone of this comforting dish:

Butter: For a rich base.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions add texture and flavor.
Garlic: A must-have for an aromatic punch.
Chicken Stock: The soul of the soup, providing depth.
Yukon Gold Potatoes: These add creaminess and heartiness, making every spoonful satisfying.
Dried Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs infuse a classic pot pie taste.
Cooked Chicken: Feel free to use leftovers, or rotisserie chicken works great!
Heavy Cream: For a luxurious finish.
Frozen Peas and Corn: These bring color and sweetness to the dish.

Ingredient alternatives and substitutes

Running low on an ingredient? No problem! Here are some easy swaps to keep your chicken pot pie soup hearty and delicious:

Butter: Substitute with olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream: You can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter choice.
Vegetables: Feel free to mix in whatever you have on hand, like green beans or mushrooms for added flavor.
Chicken Stock: Vegetable stock can work well too if you want a lighter base.

Have fun customizing this recipe to suit your preferences! Just remember, the magic is in the comforting blend of flavors that make this soup so irresistible.

Preparing Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Creating a delightful bowl of chicken pot pie soup is not only a culinary adventure but also a chance to warm up your home and heart. With just a few steps, you can craft a cozy dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into the details!

Sauté the vegetables

Start by melting four tablespoons of salted butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, toss in one cup each of small-diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté these veggies for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally until they're softened and slightly browned. The aroma will be heavenly! After that, add in two cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to infuse its rich flavor into the mix.

Create the roux with butter and flour

Next up, we’re going to build our base for the chicken pot pie soup. Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to the softened vegetables and stir well. Cook this mixture for about a minute. This roux is what gives the soup its luscious, creamy texture, so don’t rush this step!

Incorporate chicken stock and potatoes

Now, it’s time to add in some liquid. Pour in four cups of chicken stock and toss in one and a half cups of small-diced Yukon gold potatoes. These will add a hearty element to your soup. Season everything with a bay leaf, half a teaspoon of dried thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir until well combined. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Add in chicken and cream

Once your potatoes are perfectly cooked, stir in two cups of cooked, diced or shredded chicken along with half a cup of heavy cream. The cream will enrich the broth, making it decadently comforting. Keep the mixture on low heat, letting everything meld together beautifully for five more minutes.

Finish with peas and corn

To add the final touch, toss in one cup of frozen peas and half a cup of frozen corn, stirring to combine. These vibrant vegetables not only offer bursts of color but also enhance the nutritious profile of your soup. Allow it to heat through for a few more minutes. Don’t forget to discard the bay leaf before serving!

And there you have it, a steaming pot of chicken pot pie soup, perfect for ladling into bowls and enjoying alongside freshly baked biscuits. It’s comfort food at its finest—creamy, hearty, and oh-so-delicious!

Variations on Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Vegetarian Chicken Pot Pie Soup

For a delicious vegetarian twist on classic chicken pot pie soup, substitute your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or lentils. Simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and add a variety of veggies such as mushrooms, zucchini, or even kale. Not only will you maintain that cozy, hearty flavor, but you'll also cater to your vegetarian friends and family. You can find more ideas about how to make tasty vegetarian soups here.

Spicy Version with Added Spices

If you're in the mood for something with a kick, elevate your chicken pot pie soup by incorporating spices like cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chili powder. You could also toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor profile. This fiery variation is sure to warm you up on chilly evenings and impress your spice-loving friends! Want to explore more spicy soup variations? Check out this guide on spicy soup recipes.

Cooking Tips for Chicken Pot Pie Soup

How to Ensure the Soup is Creamy

To achieve that luscious creaminess in your chicken pot pie soup, using heavy cream is key. Add it towards the end of cooking to maintain its rich texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk. Just remember, if you go the milk route, you'll need to whisk in some extra flour to avoid it being too thin.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Once you've savored your chicken pot pie soup, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for about three months. When reheating, do so gradually on the stovetop to preserve the creamy consistency. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick. You’ll be back to enjoying that comforting bowl in no time!

Serving suggestions for Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Best biscuits to serve alongside

Nothing complements a hearty bowl of chicken pot pie soup quite like a warm, flaky biscuit. Try pairing it with buttermilk biscuits or cheddar bay biscuits for a delightful twist! The buttery layers soak up the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. If you’re pressed for time, store-bought biscuits work wonders too—just pop them in the oven while your soup simmers.

Garnishes to elevate presentation

Elevate your chicken pot pie soup with simple yet stunning garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color. You might also consider a dash of black pepper or a drizzle of heavy cream across the top for a gourmet touch. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a few crispy fried onions. These little additions can turn your meal into something truly special, impressing friends and family alike!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Planning to make our delicious Chicken Pot Pie Soup? Here’s a quick time breakdown to help you get organized and maximize your kitchen efficiency!

Preparation Time

Expect to spend about 20 minutes prepping your ingredients. Gather your veggies, chop the chicken, and measure out your spices to save time while cooking.

Cooking Time

The cooking process will take around 26 minutes. This includes sautéing the vegetables and letting everything simmer to perfection, creating that comforting, creamy goodness everyone loves.

Total Time

All in all, you’re looking at a total of 46 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal without sacrificing flavor. So, why not gather your ingredients and bring a little warmth to your dinner table tonight?

If you’d like to learn more about this recipe or discover additional tips, check out The Country Cook. Enjoy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Understanding the nutritional facts of your meals can help you make healthier choices. Here’s a closer look at the Chicken Pot Pie Soup:

Calories

Each serving of this comforting soup contains approximately 594 calories, offering a satisfying meal without overwhelming your daily intake.

Protein

Packed with tender chicken, this recipe provides about 24g of protein per serving. This makes it a great option to support muscle health and keep you feeling full.

Sodium

Being mindful of sodium is crucial, and this soup contains roughly 547mg of sodium per serving. Consider adjusting the amount of salt or using low-sodium chicken stock to suit your dietary needs.

For more detailed nutrition insights, you can check resources like the USDA FoodData Central. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

FAQs about Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Can I freeze chicken pot pie soup?

Absolutely! Freezing chicken pot pie soup is a great way to save leftovers for a future quick meal. Just let the soup cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can easily substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. These alternatives will maintain a creamy texture while adding a different flavor profile.

How can I make the soup healthier?

To make your chicken pot pie soup even healthier, try the following tips:

Use low-sodium chicken stock to cut back on sodium.
Incorporate more veggies like spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrients.
Swap out heavy cream for a lighter alternative, as mentioned above.
You can also reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe for a lighter version.

By making these tweaks, you can enjoy your comforting soup while staying mindful of your health!

Conclusion on Chicken Pot Pie Soup

In summary, Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort food that captures the essence of home-cooked warmth. With its creamy texture and delightful medley of vegetables, it's perfect for any weeknight dinner. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of happiness with family or friends!