Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Soup: Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Chicken Pot Pie Soup is just what you need! It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up using an Instant Pot, crockpot, or even on the stove!
What makes this recipe extra special is how it brings everyone together around the dinner table. Just imagine the smiles as you serve up bowls of this delicious soup—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- **Quick and Easy:** With just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
- **Family-Friendly:** Everyone loves the classic flavors of chicken pot pie, making this soup a hit with kids and adults alike.
- **Make-Ahead Convenience:** This soup stores well, so you can easily prepare it in advance and reheat when needed.
- **Nutrient-Packed:** Loaded with vegetables and lean chicken, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
- **Versatile Cooking Methods:** Whether you prefer using an Instant Pot, crockpot, or stovetop, this recipe fits your cooking style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our Chicken Pot Pie Soup. These are staples that you’ll likely have on hand or can easily find at your local market.
For the Soup Base
- *2 tablespoons* olive oil
- *1 lb* boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 larger breasts)
- *1 cup* celery (diced)
- *1 cup* carrot (cut into 1/4 inch thick small circles)
- *1 cup* onion (finely chopped)
- *1/2 tablespoon* garlic (finely minced)
For the Creamy Texture
- *2 cups* Yukon gold potatoes (peeled + cut into 1 inch pieces)
- *1 cup* Yukon gold potatoes (peeled + cut into quarters so that you can remove them at the end)
Seasonings
- *1/4 teaspoon* black pepper
- *1/4 teaspoon* salt
- *1/4 teaspoon* dried parsley
- *3 cups* chicken broth (or bone broth – low sodium!)
- *1/4 teaspoon* dried basil
- *1/4 teaspoon* dried rosemary
Finishing Touches
- *1 tablespoon* fresh parsley (for garnish)
- *1/2 cup* milk of choice (almond milk, whole milk, any milk will work)
Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Pot Pie Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.
- **Swap the protein:** Try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
- **Add more veggies:** Throw in some peas or corn for added sweetness and color.
- **Creamier base:** Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a rich flavor.
- **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat if you like things spicy!
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are tender and fragrant. This step is crucial as sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the boneless chicken breasts to the pot along with minced garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides. This browning adds wonderful flavor to your soup base!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to add those Yukon gold potatoes along with all your seasonings—salt, pepper, parsley, basil, and rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together well; this will create a savory broth filled with comforting flavors.
Step 4: Let It Simmer
Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 30 minutes until your chicken is cooked through and tender. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Shred & Finish
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot once cooked. Shred it using two forks before returning it back to the soup along with any remaining potato chunks. Stir in your choice of milk for creaminess. Taste test and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
Ladle out generous portions into bowls and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for that pop of color! Enjoy your warm Chicken Pot Pie Soup with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
And there you have it—your new favorite soup recipe! I can’t wait for you to try this out; I’m sure it will bring lots of joy to your mealtime!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Making Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your cooking game! Here are some pro tips that will help ensure your soup turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful.
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a big difference in flavor. Opt for farm-fresh produce when possible to enhance the taste of your soup.
– Don’t skip the seasoning: Seasoning at different stages of cooking helps build flavor. A little salt or herbs added during the sautéing process can go a long way.
– Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. This will give your soup that hearty consistency without losing any flavor.
– Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like peas or green beans. This recipe is versatile, so tailor it to suit your taste!
– Cook in batches: If you’re preparing this soup for meal prep, doubling the recipe can save time. You’ll have delicious leftovers ready to go for busy days!
How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Serving Chicken Pot Pie Soup is as fun as making it! The warm and hearty nature of this dish makes it perfect for cozy dinners. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting bowl of goodness.
Garnishes
– Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
– Croutons: Adding some crunchy croutons on top provides a delightful texture contrast to the creamy soup.
– Black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavors without being overwhelming.
Side Dishes
– Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping; it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth.
– Green salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
– Steamed veggies: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans on the side add nutrition and balance to your meal.
– Biscuits: Fluffy homemade or store-bought biscuits are always a hit alongside this comforting soup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping Chicken Pot Pie Soup is an excellent way to enjoy this dish throughout the week! With a few simple storage techniques, you’ll keep it fresh and delicious.
Storing Leftovers
– Cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container.
– Place leftovers in the refrigerator where they will last for up to three days.
Freezing
– Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.
– Label containers with dates and freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
– Add a splash of milk or broth while reheating if you find it too thick after freezing.
FAQs
If you have questions about making Chicken Pot Pie Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help you out:
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them into your soup. Cooking from frozen may require additional time in your Instant Pot or stovetop.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works wonderfully as a substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. You may also use homemade bone broth for extra richness.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still tastes creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Pot Pie Soup is such a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo on chilly nights. I hope you give this recipe a try—you’ll be greeted with warmth in every spoonful! Happy cooking!
