High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

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Dinner

High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup: Creamy, Comfort in a Bowl!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine a chilly evening, the kind that calls for something warm and comforting. As you step into your kitchen, the rich aroma of sautéed vegetables mingles with the savory scent of chicken broth, instantly enveloping you in a cozy embrace. This High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to family dinners, where laughter and warmth filled the air. Each spoonful is a creamy delight, bursting with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a hint of thyme, reminiscent of a classic pot pie but in a comforting soup form. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

  1. Texture Contrast: The creamy base combined with tender chicken and crisp vegetables creates a delightful mouthfeel that keeps each bite interesting.
  2. Flavor Balance: The savory chicken, earthy thyme, and sweet vegetables harmonize beautifully, making every spoonful a flavor-packed experience.
  3. Versatility: This soup can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it adaptable to your pantry and preferences.
  4. Ease of Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
  5. Universal Appeal: Loved by kids and adults alike, this soup is a comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, making it ideal for family meals.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

  1. Large Pot: Essential for cooking the soup and allowing for even heat distribution.
  2. Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
  3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Necessary for accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
  4. Cutting Board and Knife: Important for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently, making prep a breeze.
  5. Whisk: Useful for mixing the flour into the vegetables to avoid lumps, ensuring a creamy texture.
  6. Soup Ladle: Ideal for serving the soup without spills, making it easy to enjoy every last drop.
  7. Storage Containers: For storing leftovers or meal prepping, ensuring your soup stays fresh and delicious.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

  • Protein:
    • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (provides the main protein source)
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 cup carrots, diced (adds sweetness and color)
    • 1 cup celery, diced (provides crunch and flavor)
    • 1 cup peas (adds a pop of color and sweetness)
    • 1 cup potatoes, diced (adds heartiness and texture)
  • Liquids:
    • 4 cups chicken broth (the base of the soup, providing depth of flavor)
    • 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness and creaminess)
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (infuses the soup with aromatic flavor)
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances the overall taste)
    • Salt and pepper to taste (essential for flavor balance)
  • Thickener:
    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps achieve the desired creamy consistency)
  • Fats:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
    • 2 tablespoons butter (adds richness and flavor)

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
  2. Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat and cook for 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
  5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and bring to a simmer.
  6. Once simmering, add the shredded chicken and peas, cooking for another 10 minutes until the soup thickens.
  7. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if necessary, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

  • Make-Ahead Instructions: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Storage: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Equipment Recommendations: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even heat distribution, preventing burning.
  • Customization Options: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

  1. Not cooking the vegetables long enough: This can lead to crunchy vegetables in the soup. Solution: Ensure they are tender before adding broth.
  2. Using too much flour: This can make the soup overly thick. Solution: Start with less flour and add more if needed.
  3. Not seasoning adequately: A bland soup can result. Solution: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
  4. Adding cream too early: This can cause it to curdle. Solution: Add cream at the end of cooking.
  5. Overcooking the chicken: This can make it dry. Solution: Use pre-cooked chicken and add it towards the end of cooking.
  6. Not stirring enough: This can lead to sticking and burning. Solution: Stir frequently, especially after adding flour.
  7. Using low-quality broth: This can affect the overall flavor. Solution: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought broth.

Creative Variations & Customizations

  1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based option.
  2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
  3. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.
  4. Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or corn for a fresh take.
  5. Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend as a thickener.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

  1. Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, enhancing the comforting experience.
  2. Fresh Garden Salad: Balances the richness of the soup with crisp greens.
  3. Crispy Bacon Bits: Adds texture and flavor contrast, elevating the dish.
  4. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
  5. Glass of Chardonnay: Complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
  6. Roasted Vegetables: For a hearty meal, serve alongside seasonal roasted veggies.
  7. Garlic Breadsticks: A delightful twist that pairs well with the soup.
  8. Light, Fruity Dessert: Sorbet or fruit salad cleanses the palate after the rich soup.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Serving Size 1 cup
Calories 350
Sugar 4 grams
Sodium 800 milligrams
Fat 20 grams
Saturated Fat 10 grams
Unsaturated Fat 8 grams
Trans Fat 0 grams
Carbohydrates 30 grams
Fiber 3 grams
Protein 25 grams
Cholesterol 70 milligrams

Health Benefits: This soup is rich in protein from chicken, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, while the creamy base offers a satisfying comfort food experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor.
  2. What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative works well.
  3. How can I thicken the soup without flour? Use cornstarch mixed with water as a gluten-free thickener.
  4. Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
  5. How long does it take to cook? The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking.
  6. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
  7. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, it stores well in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
  8. What if I want a spicier soup? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

As you savor each spoonful of this High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup, take a moment to appreciate the warmth and comfort it brings. Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. Celebrate your culinary achievements, and don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe to make it your own. Gather your loved ones, serve this delightful soup, and enjoy the smiles it brings to the table. Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!

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High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup: Creamy, Comfort in a Bowl!


  • Author: Laura
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

This High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a warm, creamy delight that envelops your senses with its rich, velvety texture and savory flavors. Each spoonful bursts with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a hint of thyme, reminiscent of a classic pot pie but in a comforting soup form.


Ingredients

  • Protein: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • Vegetables: 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup peas; 1 cup potatoes, diced
  • Liquids: 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream
  • Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; salt and pepper to taste
  • Thickener: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Fats: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
  2. Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional minute.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, and bring to a simmer.
  6. Once simmering, add the shredded chicken and peas, cooking for another 10 minutes until the soup thickens.
  7. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if necessary, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Notes

  • This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: main-dish
  • Method: sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4 grams
  • Sodium: 800 milligrams
  • Fat: 20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 10 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 30 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Protein: 25 grams
  • Cholesterol: 70 milligrams

Keywords: High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup, creamy soup, comfort food, chicken soup, pot pie flavors, healthy soup, protein-rich meal, easy soup recipe, hearty soup, American cuisine, gluten-free soup, vegetable soup, winter recipes, family-friendly meals

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