Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
A Warm Bowl of Comfort: Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it features classic flavors reminiscent of a hearty chicken pot pie. Since I first concocted a one-pot twist on this beloved dish, I can’t help but whip it up whenever I crave nostalgia wrapped in a healthy package. This recipe offers everything you love about pot pie — tender chicken, vegetables, and fragrant herbs — but in a cozy, soup format. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or those busy weeknights when you need a filling meal in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not just a healthier revamp of comfort food; it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a great choice any day of the week. Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick meal or someone looking for a nutritious option to warm you up, this recipe fits the bill. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to customize, ensuring you can cater to picky eaters at the table.
"This soup is an absolute game-changer! It’s rich, creamy, and tastes just like my grandma’s chicken pot pie but without the guilt. My kids devoured it!" – Sarah J.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making this soup is a breeze, and thanks to the versatility of your cooking methods, you can choose your favorite. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot for a speedy dinner, a slow cooker for a hands-off approach, or the stovetop for that classic cooking experience, this recipe adapts beautifully. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting, nutritious soup that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items for a delicious bowl of Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. For someone who can’t consume dairy, almond milk is a fantastic choice, but feel free to use oat milk or any nut milk you enjoy without losing the creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- For the Instant Pot: In your Instant Pot, add the diced chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, almond milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Seal and Cook: Secure the lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- For the Crockpot: If you prefer a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and set to low for 6-8 hours.
- Stove-Top Method: Alternatively, combine all ingredients in a pot and bring to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is done and veggies are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
- Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then serve hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To elevate your Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup, consider serving it with crusty whole-grain bread or savory crackers. A green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast, and for something more decadent, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing this soup is simple! If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely in an airtight container before refrigerating. It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove until heated through, adding a splash of additional broth or almond milk for that creamy texture if needed.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Customize Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or ones that need using up. Green beans, corn, or even spinach can be great in this soup.
- Instant Pot Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can quickly sauté the onions and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients for an enhanced flavor profile.
- Seasoning: Adjust the herbs to your liking; adding a bay leaf during cooking can also enhance the depth of flavor.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Consider adding some spice with a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika. You could also top your soup with puff pastry strips for that pot pie experience or sprinkle some cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Your Questions Answered
What is the preparation time for this soup?
This recipe typically takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 20-30 minutes to cook, making it a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! If you forget to thaw, you can still use frozen chicken breast in the Instant Pot, just increase the cooking time by about 5 minutes.
How do I make it gluten-free?
This soup is naturally gluten-free, but always check your chicken broth and any seasonings for hidden gluten ingredients.
With this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup, you’ll discover a comforting treasure that checks all the right boxes for taste, health, and convenience. Enjoy this nourishing dish any time you crave warmth and flavor!
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Ingredients
Method
- For the Instant Pot: In your Instant Pot, add the diced chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, almond milk, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Seal and Cook: Secure the lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- For the Crockpot: If you prefer a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and set to low for 6-8 hours.
- Stove-Top Method: Combine all ingredients in a pot and bring to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is done and veggies are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
- Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then serve hot.
