Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic dish, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth.
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup brings the beloved flavors of the classic pot pie into a hearty soup, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy flavor with a healthy twist
- Packed with protein and veggies for a nutritious meal
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings
A Healthy Take on a Classic
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not just a comforting dish; it's also a nutritious alternative to the traditional pot pie. By transforming the classic recipe into a soup, you retain all the delicious flavors while significantly reducing calories and fat. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy broth makes this soup a wholesome meal that can easily satisfy your cravings.
Incorporating fresh ingredients like carrots, celery, and peas not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. Each serving is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for families looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste. Plus, the creamy texture is achieved with a clever blend of milk and flour, keeping it light yet satisfying.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a family gathering, this soup is the perfect addition to your menu. It’s versatile enough to be served as a starter or as a hearty main course. The rich and creamy flavor profile will appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Moreover, the soup can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for later use. When you're ready to enjoy it, just reheat and serve. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Customization and Variations
One of the great aspects of this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is its adaptability. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Corn, green beans, or even mushrooms can add a delightful twist to the flavor and texture of the dish. Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative without sacrificing the creamy consistency.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to give it a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to make it uniquely yours. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
Mix these ingredients well to ensure a delicious and hearty soup.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Chicken and Broth
Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, frozen peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Make it Creamy
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the soup, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
Once thickened, remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your healthy chicken pot pie soup!
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Storage Tips
To ensure your Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain good for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the creaminess of the soup.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider omitting the milk until you're ready to serve. This helps maintain the texture and flavor. Once thawed, reheat the soup and stir in the milk for a deliciously creamy finish.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, enhancing your dining experience.
For a more indulgent option, serve the soup in individual ramekins, topped with a layer of puff pastry and baked until golden. This adds a delightful crunch and elevates the dish to a new level, perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Nutritional Benefits
Each bowl of this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is loaded with protein from the chicken, making it a filling and satisfying meal. In addition, the variety of vegetables contributes to your daily fiber intake, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer.
Furthermore, by using low-sodium chicken broth and fresh ingredients, you can control the amount of salt and preservatives in your meal. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to manage their sodium intake while still enjoying a hearty and flavorful dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of all-purpose flour.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ What vegetables can I add to the soup?
Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as corn, green beans, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic dish, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, frozen peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the soup, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your healthy chicken pot pie soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g