Advertisement
Nothing quite compares to the warmth of a bowl of homemade soup, especially on a chilly day. Our Golden Harvest Creamy Chicken Soup is the perfect balance of hearty and wholesome, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious, velvety broth. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl, a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked comfort, and a staple for cozy nights.
Unlike store-bought canned soups, this homemade version is free from preservatives and excessive sodium, making it a healthier and more nourishing choice. It’s an ideal dish for meal prep, family dinners, or simply indulging in a bowl of warmth when the weather calls for something comforting.
In this article, we’ll explore why this soup is a must-try, the benefits of its wholesome ingredients, and answer some commonly asked questions to help you perfect the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Soup
1. A Perfect Balance of Comfort and Nutrition
While creamy soups are often considered indulgent, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and wholesome nutrition. The combination of protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich vegetables, and calcium-loaded milk or cream makes this dish both satisfying and nourishing.
2. Simple, Affordable Ingredients
One of the best things about this soup is its accessibility. Most of the ingredients—chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery, and broth—are common kitchen staples. Unlike complicated gourmet recipes, this soup doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it an easy and budget-friendly option for home cooks.
3. Ideal for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for future meals, making it a practical choice for batch cooking. Whether you prepare it for a weeknight dinner or make extra to store for later, this soup remains a reliable option for quick, homemade comfort food.
4. Customizable to Your Taste and Dietary Needs
This recipe serves as a fantastic base that can be customized in countless ways. Want to make it dairy-free? Use coconut milk instead of cream. Looking for a low-carb version? Swap the potatoes for cauliflower. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Butter | 2 tablespoons |
Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
Carrots (diced) | 2 medium |
Celery stalks (diced) | 2 |
Potatoes (diced) | 2 medium |
Chicken broth | 3 cups (720ml) |
Milk or cream | 2 cups (480ml) |
Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) | 2 cups (300g) |
Frozen peas | 1/2 cup (60g) |
All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup (30g) |
Dried thyme | 1/4 teaspoon |
Dried parsley | 1/4 teaspoon |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and add olive oil.
- Sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Add the garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for another 3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables & Broth
- Stir in the potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour with 1/2 cup of milk or cream to make a smooth paste.
- Gradually stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it.
Step 4: Add Chicken & Peas
- Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen peas.
- Pour in the remaining milk or cream and season with thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
Step 5: Simmer & Serve
- Let the soup simmer for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until thick and creamy.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate cozy meal!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 25g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Fat | 15g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sugar | 6g |
Sodium | 600mg |
The Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients
This creamy chicken soup is not just about taste—it’s packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall health. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of its core ingredients.
Chicken: A High-Quality Protein Source
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body strength. It also contains important vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, which support energy production and brain function.
Vegetables: A Boost of Fiber and Antioxidants
This soup includes a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, each offering its own set of nutritional benefits:
Advertisement
- Carrots provide beta-carotene, which is essential for eye health and immune support.
- Celery is rich in antioxidants and contains compounds that support digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Potatoes are a great source of potassium, an essential mineral for heart health and proper muscle function.
Milk or Cream: A Source of Healthy Fats and Calcium
While cream adds richness to the soup, it also provides healthy fats and calcium, which are important for strong bones and overall well-being. For a lighter option, using milk instead of heavy cream can help reduce the calorie content while still maintaining a smooth texture.
Broth: Hydration and Immune Support
Chicken broth not only adds depth of flavor but also contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. If you use homemade broth, you’ll also benefit from collagen and amino acids that support joint health and digestion.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About This Creamy Chicken Soup
1. Can I Use Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. It saves time and adds extra flavor. Simply shred or dice the chicken and add it during the final simmering stage.
2. How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap out the milk or cream for coconut milk or almond milk. You can also use cashew cream for a similar richness without the dairy.
3. What Are Some Ways to Make This Soup Thicker?
If you prefer an extra-thick soup, you can increase the amount of flour in the recipe or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Another option is to puree a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a naturally creamy consistency.
4. Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well, but keep in mind that dairy-based soups may slightly change in texture after thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months. When reheating, warm it slowly over low heat while stirring to maintain its creamy consistency.
5. What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, homemade biscuits, or a side salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches or a simple roasted vegetable dish.
Advertisement
6. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes! To make it in a slow cooker, add all ingredients except milk and flour, and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in the milk and flour mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for the aromatics, then pressure cook everything for 10 minutes before stirring in the dairy and thickening agent.
7. How Can I Add More Flavor to the Soup?
For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. Fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil can also elevate the taste.
Conclusion: A Soup Worth Savoring
Golden Harvest Creamy Chicken Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a timeless comfort dish that brings warmth, nourishment, and satisfaction with every spoonful. Whether you’re making it as a cozy dinner for the family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply indulging in a nostalgic bowl of homemade goodness, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
With its creamy texture, wholesome ingredients, and endless customization options, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Try it today and experience the joy of a truly heartwarming, homemade soup.
PrintGolden Harvest Creamy Chicken Soup: A Comforting Classic
Warm, rich, and bursting with flavor, this Golden Harvest Creamy Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a velvety broth, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or meal prepping, it’s a dish that will keep you coming back for more!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (480ml) milk or cream
- 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup (60g) frozen peas
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Advertisement
- Add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour with 1/2 cup of milk or cream until smooth.
- Gradually stir this mixture into the soup to help thicken the broth.
4. Add Chicken and Peas
- Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen peas.
- Pour in the remaining milk or cream and season with dried thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer and Serve
- Let the soup simmer for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Make it Dairy-Free: Swap the milk or cream for coconut milk or almond milk.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter version.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or grated Parmesan before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.