When you’re craving something hearty yet healthy, this creamy cauliflower chicken soup is the perfect choice. With tender pieces of chicken, nutritious cauliflower, and a rich, velvety texture, this soup is both comforting and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly night or a nutritious option for meal prep, this soup delivers bold flavors without the guilt. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped into florets (about 4 cups)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Base (Optional):
- 1 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme
- Croutons or crispy bacon (optional)
Preparation
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
2. Add Cauliflower and Spices
- Stir in the cauliflower florets, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes to coat the cauliflower in the spices.
3. Add Broth and Simmer
- Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Blend the Soup (Optional)
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
5. Add Chicken and Cream
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- For a creamier texture, add milk, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until combined and heated through.
Variations
- Keto-Friendly: Use heavy cream and add crispy bacon or cheese for extra fat.
- Vegan Option: Omit the chicken and substitute with chickpeas or tofu. Use vegetable broth and coconut milk for creaminess.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Cooking Note
For an extra layer of flavor, roast the cauliflower before adding it to the soup. This enhances the natural sweetness and nuttiness of the cauliflower.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: A slice of toasted sourdough or French bread pairs perfectly.
- Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- As a Light Dinner: Pair with a green salad for a balanced meal.
Tips
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of water or add more blended cauliflower.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 460mg
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, frozen cauliflower works just as well. No need to thaw—simply add it straight to the pot and adjust cooking time slightly.
2. What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but you can also use cooked, shredded chicken breasts or thighs.
3. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion
This creamy cauliflower chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you prefer it chunky or silky smooth, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and warm up with a bowl of this delicious goodness!