Creamy Chicken Soup

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. It’s warm, delicious, and packed with veggies and chicken. This soup is not only easy to make but also soothing, making it ideal for anyone feeling under the weather or just looking for a hearty meal.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Creamy Chicken Soup is a great choice because it uses simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. It’s wholesome, filling, and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, making it an economical choice for families. You can enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread, making it even better!

How to Make Creamy Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
3 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch segments
2 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 ½ cups shredded or diced chicken breasts or chicken thighs
1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or fresh parsley
Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook them until the onions and celery are soft, about 7 to 10 minutes.
Lower the heat to low, and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute while stirring.
Sprinkle in the flour and keep cooking for 2 more minutes while stirring.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring the soup. Add the green beans and potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook until the green beans and potatoes are tender.
Lower the heat again and stir in the cooked chicken and half-and-half (or milk). Season with thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Soup

Serve this delicious soup warm, ladled into bowls. It goes well with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping. You can also sprinkle a bit of chopped parsley on top for an added touch before serving.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Soup

Chop veggies into similar sizes for even cooking.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
If you like a thicker soup, add a bit more flour or use less broth.
Adjust seasoning to your taste as you go.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers for variety. For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the chicken with shredded turkey.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be substituted for fresh vegetables. Just add them to the pot according to their cooking time.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
You can add more chicken broth or water to the soup until it reaches your desired thickness. Stir well after adding.

Enjoy this easy Creamy Chicken Soup any day of the week. It’s a simple and satisfying dish that your whole family will love!