Nothing beats a bowl of creamy chicken soup on a chilly day. This classic comfort food is hearty, nutritious, and full of rich, savory flavors. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth, it’s a meal that warms both the body and soul. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you’re feeling under the weather, this creamy chicken soup will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup baby spinach or kale
- ½ cup cooked rice, pasta, or potatoes
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation
Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken
- Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the heavy cream and stir until the soup thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Final Touches
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If using, stir in baby spinach or kale until wilted. Add cooked rice, pasta, or potatoes for extra heartiness.
Variation
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Low-Carb Version: Omit flour and replace with xanthan gum for a keto-friendly soup.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.
Cooking Note
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. You can also simmer the soup for an extra 10 minutes to deepen the flavors further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy chicken soup with warm crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic breadsticks. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances both the flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Make Ahead: This soup can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Consistency Adjustments: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! Add shredded rotisserie chicken during the final steps to save time.
2. What can I use to thicken the soup without flour?
You can use cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or even mashed potatoes as a thickening agent.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Mushrooms, corn, or peas can be great additions to this creamy chicken soup.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken soup is a timeless classic that offers comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or preparing a comforting meal for loved ones, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it once, and it will quickly become part of your regular rotation. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!