Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the soothing warmth of a bowl of soup. This delicious recipe features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy broth, making it a wonderful option for a cozy dinner or a chilly day. Perfectly paired with fresh bread or crackers, this soup will become a favorite in your household!
What is Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a creamy, hearty soup that mimics all the flavors of a traditional chicken pot pie. It is typically made with chicken, vegetables, and a velvety broth, and it often contains a biscuit or pie crust topping to enhance the experience. This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly delicious and satisfying, making it a popular choice for families and gatherings.
The Comforting Origins of Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie has long been a beloved dish, with its origins tracing back to ancient Greece and Rome. However, the dish that many people know today emerged in the 19th century in North America. The tradition of transforming savory fillings into pies persisted, and eventually, the creamy filling became a stand-alone soup, making Chicken Pot Pie Soup a comforting modern adaptation of the classic.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
To create your homemade Chicken Pot Pie Soup, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients to achieve that signature flavor. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup carrots (diced)
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh peas if in season)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for richness)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (to thicken)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor)
Optional Toppings
- Biscuit dough: Homemade or store-bought for a crunchy contrast.
- Chopped parsley: For a fresh garnish.
- Crackers or bread: Perfect for dipping!
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Creating your Chicken Pot Pie Soup is easy and fun! Follow these simple steps to whip up a pot of goodness that warms the belly and the soul.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Base:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat and cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Add in the diced or shredded chicken, frozen peas, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Make it Creamy:
- Stir in the heavy cream, adjusting the consistency to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix an extra tablespoon of flour with water to create a slurry and add it in as you stir.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. More salt, pepper, or herbs can be added to suit your personal preference.
- Serve:
- Ladle the Chicken Pot Pie Soup into bowls, and if desired, top with pre-baked biscuit dough or crackers. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Use Quality Ingredients
When making Chicken Pot Pie Soup, using the freshest and highest quality ingredients really makes a difference. Opt for organic vegetables and fresh herbs to elevate the flavor of your soup.
Customize to Your Taste
Feel free to adjust the vegetables in your Chicken Pot Pie Soup. You can add corn, diced potatoes, or even mushrooms. Make it your own, reflecting the flavors you enjoy most!
Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Options
If you prefer using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, follow similar steps. Sauté the vegetables first in a skillet before adding them to the cooker.
- For the slow cooker: Combine all ingredients except for the cream, and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. Stir in cream before serving.
- For the Instant Pot: Follow the sauté instructions and then seal the pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and allow for a natural release before opening. Stir in the cream before enjoying!
Health Benefits of Chicken Pot Pie Soup
While Chicken Pot Pie Soup is primarily a comfort food, it does offer some nutritional benefits:
Protein-Packed
With chicken as the main ingredient, this soup is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Loaded with Vegetables
The inclusion of various vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Carrots and peas come packed with antioxidants and nutrients that promote health.
Comforting and Satisfying
The combination of a creamy base and hearty fillings satisfies hunger, preventing overeating later in the day.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Chicken Pot Pie Soup left over, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best flavor, consider consuming it within this timeframe.
Freezing Options
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave space for expansion, and label it with the date. It will last in the freezer for about three months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat Chicken Pot Pie Soup, you can use the stovetop or microwave:
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Note on Freezing Creamy Soups
Keep in mind that creamy soups might change texture after freezing. The heavy cream can separate, but it still remains delicious when reheated. Stir well after thawing and heating to redistribute the ingredients.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Soup
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with plant-based protein, such as chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add a variety of vegetables for flavor and nutrients.
Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie Soup
If you’re aiming for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour for thickening. Ensure that your chicken broth and biscuits (if added) are also labeled gluten-free.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
For a twist, add sautéed mushrooms along with the veggies to give your Chicken Pot Pie Soup an earthy, umami flavor. Replace some of the heavy cream with sour cream for a tangy note.
The Perfect Pairings for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Bread and Crackers
Nothing complements Chicken Pot Pie Soup better than warm, crusty bread or buttered crackers. The crunch and texture of freshly baked bread add an extra layer of comfort.
Salads
You can serve a light, crisp salad alongside your soup. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the soup.
Desserts
For a complete meal, follow your Chicken Pot Pie Soup with a light dessert. A fruit tart or apple crumble can be the perfect ending to a comforting dinner.