High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, high protein chicken pot pie soup is a fantastic choice. This creamy and comforting soup captures all the wonderful flavors of traditional chicken pot pie, but with the added benefits of being packed with protein and easy to prepare.
Why Make This Recipe
High protein chicken pot pie soup is not only a satisfying dish but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits. Packed with lean protein from chicken, this soup provides essential amino acids to help repair and build muscles. The inclusion of vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal that can easily be enjoyed any night of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on a cold day or to enjoy as a comforting dish with your family and friends.
How to Make High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Making high protein chicken pot pie soup is straightforward and requires simple, wholesome ingredients. Follow the steps below to create this delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, peas, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth.
- Gradually add the cream mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the soup thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for Success with High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
-
Cook the Chicken Wisely: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can poach chicken breast in chicken broth for added flavor.
-
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, feel free to use them instead of dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
-
Thickening Consistency: To achieve your desired thickness, adjust the amount of flour and cream accordingly. If you prefer a soupier consistency, use less flour.
-
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or potatoes for additional nutrients and flavor.
-
Shredding Chicken: Shred your chicken with two forks for a quicker, fluffier texture that blends well in the soup.
-
Adjusting Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper at the end to suit your preferences, especially since different chicken broth brands can vary in sodium content.
Flavor Variations for High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
-
Creamy Mushroom Addition: Include sliced mushrooms sautéed with the vegetables to create a richer, deeper flavor.
-
Herb Infusion: Add oregano or basil along with thyme and rosemary for a more aromatic profile.
-
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
-
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
-
Lemon Zest: For a fresh twist, add some lemon zest right before serving. The acidity will brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions for High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
High protein chicken pot pie soup is a fantastic standalone dish, but you can enhance your meal with these serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
- Salad Pairing: Accompany your soup with a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy experience.
- Extra Garnish: Add croutons or even biscuit pieces on top for a delightful crunch.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
If you have leftovers (which you likely will!), this soup holds up well in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra broth or water, as the soup can thicken in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers. This soup can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Value |
|———————–|—————-|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw chicken! Simply add cubed chicken breast to the pot after sautéing the vegetables, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Then, proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Not at all! While heavy cream gives the soup a rich flavor, you can substitute it with milk or a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk for a lighter version. If you desire creaminess but without the calories, consider using Greek yogurt as a final addition, but remember to add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. You can make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be prepared to add a little extra liquid when you reheat it, as it may thicken after sitting.
What if I want a gluten-free version?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If you use cornstarch, mix it with a bit of broth before adding it to the soup to avoid lumps.
How can I make this soup healthier?
You can boost the nutritional profile by adding more vegetables or using white meat chicken instead of dark meat. Opting for a lower-fat dairy or dairy substitutes also works towards a lighter version of the soup.
Final Thoughts
High protein chicken pot pie soup is a wonderful dish that brings warmth and comfort, packed with heartiness and flavors reminiscent of a beloved classic. With its simplicity and nourishment, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful soup that the whole family will love!
Print
High Protein Chicken Pot Pie Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: High Protein
Description
This creamy and comforting soup captures the wonderful flavors of traditional chicken pot pie, packed with protein and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, peas, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth.
- Gradually add the cream mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the soup thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Use fresh herbs for better flavor. Adjust the thickness by changing the amount of flour and cream to your liking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American