High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

A creamy and hearty High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup is packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors that warm you from the inside out. With its easy preparation and satisfying texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Protein: This soup features shredded chicken, making it a protein-rich meal that keeps you full longer.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s a speedy option for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand, making it adaptable to your pantry.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of herbs and cream creates a rich, comforting taste that rivals traditional pot pie.
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one pot, this recipe minimizes dishes while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience and make the process enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without damaging your pot and ensures thorough mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

A creamy and hearty chicken pot pie soup packed with protein, vegetables, and comforting flavors, perfect for a cozy meal.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas

For Flavoring and Thickening

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery.
• Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in the shredded chicken along with the low-sodium chicken broth. Add frozen peas along with dried thyme and rosemary. Bring this mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the cream mixture to the pot while stirring continuously to avoid lumps forming.

Step 6: Thicken the Soup

Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve the soup hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Serving High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup can enhance your meal experience. This hearty soup is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments, making it perfect for any occasion.

Top It Off with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Leaves – Add a few fresh thyme leaves to amplify the herbal notes.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – Serve slices of tangy sourdough for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Enjoy buttery garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• Edible Bowls – Use hollowed-out bread bowls to serve the soup for a fun presentation.

Accompany with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing complements the flavors nicely.

How to Perfect High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Creating the perfect High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup involves a few simple techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Adjust Thickness – For a thicker soup, add more flour or reduce the broth slightly.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
• Let it Simmer – Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors.
• Experiment with Proteins – Try using turkey or beef for different protein options.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and rich, these potatoes make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrients.
3. Cheesy Biscuit Bites – Flaky biscuits loaded with cheese make for delightful bites alongside soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins complement savory flavors perfectly.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a hearty side that pairs well with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always take the time to soften your onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to enhance flavor.

• Overcooking the Chicken: If you overcook the chicken, it can become dry and tough. Use pre-cooked chicken or ensure it’s just heated through during cooking.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can leave your soup flat. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can cause the soup to seize up. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth incorporation.

• Not Allowing Enough Time for Thickening: Rushing the simmering time can result in a watery soup. Allow ample time for the soup to thicken after adding the cream mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup:

How do I make this High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup healthier?

You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Leftover turkey is a great substitute and adds even more protein to your soup.

What can I use as a gluten-free alternative for flour?

You can replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blends to thicken your soup without gluten.

How do I customize my High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables such as mushrooms or green beans, or swap herbs like thyme with dill for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Try making this recipe today for a warm meal that nourishes both body and soul!