Embrace the warmth and comfort of a bowl of homemade soup with our Creamy Chicken Soup with Vegetables recipe. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re in need of a comforting meal, this hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a creamy broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and content. Join us as we take you through the steps of creating this delicious dish, along with helpful tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup green peas
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and sliced carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Thicken the soup: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Add the potatoes and broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the chicken: Nestle the chicken thighs into the soup, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add the remaining vegetables: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then add the broccoli florets and green peas. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot: Ladle the creamy chicken soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamy Texture: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
- Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the soup by adding herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Cauliflower, bell peppers, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breast can be used instead of chicken thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breast tends to cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from becoming dry.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Is this soup suitable for a keto diet? A: For a keto-friendly version, you can omit the potatoes and flour, and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour. Additionally, be mindful of the carrots and peas, as they contain higher amounts of carbohydrates.
Q: How can I make this soup low-carb? A: To reduce the carb content of this soup, omit the potatoes and use low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower or zucchini instead. You can also use a low-carb thickener and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Warm up from the inside out with a bowl of our Creamy Chicken Soup with Vegetables. Whether you’re battling a cold, seeking comfort on a rainy day, or simply craving a nourishing meal, this hearty soup is sure to hit the spot. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and abundance of vegetables, it’s a wholesome dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and savor the comforting goodness of homemade soup!
