Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and healthy version of a classic dish, the Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the perfect recipe for you. This lighter, yet still creamy and delicious twist on traditional chicken pot pie offers all the flavors you crave without the added calories. It’s the ideal choice for those chilly days when you need a warm and satisfying meal to cozy up with. Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
The Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is loaded with fresh, nourishing ingredients that combine to create a hearty and flavorful dish. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need:
– Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and shredded for the base of the soup.
– Olive oil: A healthier fat option for sautéing.
– Onion: Finely diced for that aromatic flavor.
– Celery and carrots: Chopped to add warmth and texture.
– Russet potatoes: Peeled and diced for creaminess.
– Low sodium chicken broth: To keep the soup light but full of flavor.
– Frozen peas: A touch of sweetness for balance.
– Milk: To give the soup its creamy consistency.
– Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the soup to your desired texture.
– Fresh thyme: For that earthy, herbaceous aroma.
– Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper: Simple spices that elevate the flavors.
Prep Time
Preparing the Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a breeze, and it requires minimal effort in the prep stage. From chopping the veggies to shredding your cooked chicken, you’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. In less than 15 minutes of prep time, all of your fresh ingredients will be ready to go into the pot, making this an efficient dish to enjoy any night of the week.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Once you’re done with the quick prep, the soup simmers beautifully and fills your kitchen with comforting aromas. The cook time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes, making it a manageable dish for busy schedules. With a combined total time of around 45 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be able to sit down to a satisfying, homemade meal in less than an hour. The recipe serves a generous yield, with portions for around 4-6 people—perfect for feeding the family or saving leftovers for the following day.
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is an ideal recipe for anyone seeking a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Its combination of nutritious ingredients and comforting flavors make it a must-try dish, perfect for chilly seasons or any time you need a warm bowl of goodness!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop onions, celery, and carrots into small, evenly sized pieces for even cooking. Peel and cube the potatoes. Mince garlic and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, then place chicken breasts into the pot. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove cooked chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 4: Make the Base for the Soup
Sprinkle flour (or preferred thickening agent) over the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Stir thoroughly and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour chicken broth or stock into the pot while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Simmer
Stir in diced potatoes and bring the soup to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low-medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
While the soup is simmering, shred the cooled chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Step 7: Incorporate the Shredded Chicken
Once potatoes are soft, add the shredded chicken back into the soup. Stir to combine, and allow the chicken to warm through for about 5 minutes.
Step 8: Add Peas and Milk
Stir in frozen peas and milk (or dairy alternative of your choice). Mix well until fully incorporated, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Taste the soup, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 9: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls for serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
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Notes
Adding Creaminess
For an extra creamy version, you can stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream during Step 8.
Thickening the Soup
If the soup is not thick enough, dissolve one tablespoon of cornstarch in two tablespoons of cold water, then stir the mixture into the soup while it is simmering.
Making It Dairy-Free
To make the recipe dairy-free, use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk instead of regular milk.
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Options
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Adding Extra Vegetables
You can add additional vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms during Step 5 for extra flavor and nutrients. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the soup with whole-grain bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Gluten-Free Modifications
Replace the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch to make this soup gluten-free. Be sure to check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Cook Techniques
Cooking the Chicken
Cook the chicken thoroughly in advance. You can bake, grill, or cook it in a skillet until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before adding it to the soup.
Making a Roux
Create a roux by combining flour with fat to serve as a thickening agent for the soup base. Whisk this mixture into the broth slowly to avoid lumps.
Sautéing Vegetables
Before combining everything, sauté vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots in a pot to enhance their flavors.
Simmering the Soup
After mixing all the ingredients together, allow the soup to gently simmer, which lets all the flavors meld together for a rich taste.
Blending for Creaminess
To create a creamy texture without heavy cream, blend a portion of the soup, or use tools like an immersion blender.
FAQ
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free. Substitute the standard milk with almond milk or another dairy-free alternative.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, this recipe works great with leftover chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken you have on hand.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add vegetables like peas, green beans, corn, or mushrooms to enhance the soup and make it your own.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply omit the flour and use a cornstarch slurry or other gluten-free thickening agents instead.
Conclusion
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a cozy and comforting meal that delivers all the flavors of a classic chicken pot pie without the heaviness. It’s a perfect nutritious option for a weeknight dinner, satisfying and hearty. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is easy to prepare, great for meal prep, and a family favorite for its creamy and savory taste. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of a homemade dish in a lighter, healthier version.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Healthy Turkey Chili
A nutrient-packed one-pot meal, this dish is a perfect pairing for anyone who loves a hearty chili without excessive calories.
Creamy Cauliflower Soup
Pair this silky soup with fresh bread for a great starter or light companion.
Roasted Veggie Grain Bowl
For those looking to diversify meal prep, this bowl combines robust flavors with wholesome ingredients.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Another comfort food staple that pairs well with this recipe for those seeking variety of tastes.
Butternut Squash Soup
This flavorful and velvety soup offers a sweet and savory contrast to the chicken pot pie soup.
Homemade Whole Wheat Biscuits
Serve alongside, or crumble into the chicken pot pie soup for an extra hearty option.
