Creamy Chicken Soup
Creamy chicken soup features tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and pasta in a rich, comforting broth, perfect for a hearty meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make stock using whole chicken parts and simmer for about 1 1/2 hours.
- Strain the liquid and put it back in the pot.
- In a food processor, process the reserved onions, carrots, and celery separately.
- Bring the liquid to a boil and add the processed vegetables and 3 to 4 tablespoons of small pasta (orzo).
- Continue cooking for about 15 minutes.
- Make a roux with 3 to 4 tablespoons of flour and 3 to 4 tablespoons of margarine.
- Add the roux to the simmering soup.
- Add cooked chicken and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of chicken thighs and breasts. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut for the cooked chicken. You can also substitute orzo with any small pasta or even rice, depending on your preference. Don't forget to season your stock well, as it will greatly influence the soup's final taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad complements the soup beautifully. For a heartier meal, pair it with a slice of Excellent Chicken or any of your favorite chicken recipes to enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover creamy chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Chicken Soup contains roughly 1484 calories, with 45g protein, 300g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (247% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (187% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a spicy kick to your creamy chicken soup, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy extra heat!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).