There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when the first hint of fall beckons. As the temperature drops, I find myself craving something hearty yet comforting, and that’s when this Creamy Chicken Soup comes to mind. It’s the kind of dish that embraces you with open arms, bursting with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, all enveloped in a luscious, dairy-free, and gluten-free coconut milk base.
This recipe began as a quest to elevate my weeknight dinners beyond the usual fast-food routine. In just 20-25 minutes, you can whip up a nourishing bowl that not only satisfies hunger but also brings everyone together. Picture the vibrant colors of carrots and celery dancing in the pot as the garlic sizzles, creating an irresistible aroma that has your loved ones gravitating towards the kitchen.
Whether you’re facing a busy week or simply wanting to indulge in a creamy delight that won’t break your dietary goals, this soup is your answer. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will transform your cooking experience and leave you feeling fulfilled!
Why is Creamy Chicken Soup a Must-Try?
Warmth in every spoonful: This creamy chicken soup wraps you in comfort, making it perfect for chilly days.
Quick and Easy: With just 20-25 minutes to prepare, you can enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss.
Nourishing and Satisfying: Packed with colorful vegetables and tender chicken, it’s a nutritious feast for the whole family.
Diet-Friendly: Enjoy this delicious soup guilt-free; it’s both dairy-free and gluten-free, catering to diverse dietary needs.
Aromatic Bliss: The fragrant blend of garlic, herbs, and spices creates a kitchen aroma that brings everyone together.
Perfect for any weeknight or special occasion, this soup surely elevates your dinner table.
Creamy Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the heart of homemade comfort with these delightful ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Olive oil – A staple for sautéing, it adds richness to the soup’s flavor.
- Carrots – Sweet and vibrant, they bring both color and nutrition to your creamy chicken soup.
- Celery – Adds a fresh crunch that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Yellow onion – Essential for building a savory depth and aroma in the soup.
- Garlic – A hint of garlic brings warmth and richness, perfect for chilly nights.
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts or thighs – Choose boneless cuts for easy cooking and tender results.
For Seasoning
- Black pepper – Freshly ground offers the best flavor and subtle heat in each spoonful.
- Sea salt – Enhances all the natural flavors of the soup ingredients.
- Paprika – Adds a slight smokiness that beautifully complements the chicken.
- Turmeric – A pinch of this golden spice not only offers color but also a wealth of nutritional benefits.
- Bay leaves – Infuse your soup with a herbal note that makes every bite a delight.
For the Fresh Herbs
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley – Great for garnish, fresh parsley brightens up the dish with color and taste.
- Fresh thyme or dried thyme – Offers an aromatic herbal flavor that enhances the soup’s depth.
- Fresh oregano or dried oregano – Complements the other spices wonderfully, rounding out the flavor profile.
For the Liquid
- Dry white wine – Adds acidity and complexity; choose a wine you would enjoy drinking!
- Chicken broth/stock – Use low or no sodium options for a healthier broth base.
- Coconut milk – Create that luscious creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free!
For Thickening
- Tapioca starch – A gluten-free thickening agent, perfect for achieving your desired soup consistency.
- Water – To mix with tapioca starch for a smooth slurry.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Soup
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Heat the oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. This will set the stage for a beautifully aromatic base.
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Sauté the veggies: Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Stir frequently, allowing the vegetables to soften and the onions to become translucent, usually about 5-7 minutes.
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Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. The kitchen will begin to smell divine!
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Combine chicken and spices: Add the chicken pieces, black pepper, sea salt, paprika, and turmeric. Gently mix to ensure everything is well-coated with spices.
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Incorporate herbs: Toss in the fresh parsley, thyme, and oregano. Mix well to infuse the soup with herbaceous goodness.
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Brown the chicken: Continue sautéing until the chicken is browned on all sides, stirring often to prevent sticking, about 4-5 minutes.
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Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth to your soup!
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Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Stir well to combine, creating a rich and creamy base for your soup.
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Shred the chicken: You can either remove the chicken to chop or shred it, then return it to the pot, or simply break it up into chunks directly in the pot—whichever suits you best!
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Simmer it down: Reduce the heat slightly to medium-low and allow to simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
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Season to taste: Give the soup a taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
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Thicken with tapioca: Whisk the tapioca starch and water together until smooth. Pour the slurry into the soup, stirring constantly until your desired thickness is achieved.
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Serve and garnish: Divide the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the warm embrace of your creamy chicken soup!
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Soup?
Fill your table with warmth and delightful flavors that perfectly complement your comforting bowl of soup.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up every last drop of creamy goodness, it adds satisfying texture to your meal. A warm slice straight from the oven can make a cozy evening feel even more inviting.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Light, fluffy, and infused with garlic, these are delightful for dipping, adding a little extra crunch to your meal. Imagine the aroma of garlic mingling with your soup, making it hard to resist that next bite.
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Garden Salad: A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and a crunchy contrast. The bright flavors will wake up your palate and balance the rich creaminess of the soup.
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Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your table while maintaining a light and healthy feel. Their crisp-tender texture pairs beautifully with the soft soup, making each bite heartier.
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Cheesy Quinoa Bake: A cheesy, hearty side filled with wholesome grains adds depth to your meal. The creaminess of both dishes complements each other wonderfully, creating a satisfying experience.
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Crisp Apple Slices: For a refreshing finish, pair your soup with crunchy apple slices. Their natural sweetness will cleanse your palate and round out your meal beautifully.
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Fruit Sorbet: A light, refreshing sorbet is the perfect way to cleanse your palate after a rich soup. The fruit flavors will uplift your spirits as you savor the last spoonful of your creamy chicken delight.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the carrots, celery, and onion up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch and freshness. Additionally, uncooked chicken can be seasoned and placed in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the chicken, and follow the remaining steps for cooking. This way, you save time during your busy week, ensuring that your creamy chicken soup is just as delightful as if made fresh!
Creamy Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your creamy chicken soup to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the sauté for a flavorful heat that warms you from the inside out.
- Herb Infusion: Swap the fresh herbs with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a different herbaceous profile that’s equally delightful.
- Vegetable Medley: Introduce zucchini, green beans, or corn for a colorful medley, adding both nutrition and texture to the pot.
- Protein Boost: For extra protein, include cooked beans or lentils, which also boost the fiber content while keeping it hearty.
- Coconut-Free: Substitute full-fat coconut milk with unsweetened almond or cashew milk for a lighter option while maintaining creaminess.
- Zest of Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving brightens flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
- Noodle Option: Stir in cooked gluten-free pasta or rice to turn the soup into a filling one-pot meal the whole family will love.
- Creamy Pesto: Swirl in a few tablespoons of your favorite dairy-free pesto to enrich the soup with herby basil flavors and creaminess.
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Soup
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and herbs for maximum flavor and nutrition in your creamy chicken soup.
• Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing onions and garlic to develop their flavors fully; this is a crucial step for a delicious base.
• Adjust the Thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more chicken broth or coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Be cautious not to overcook the chicken; it should be perfectly tender and juicy. Follow the cooking times closely.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or coriander for added depth in flavor. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
• Garnish with Love: Fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate your creamy chicken soup and provide a burst of freshness.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store your creamy chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to maintain its delicious flavors.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. Warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Separation Tip: When thawing, the coconut milk may separate; simply stir well to reincorporate it back into the soup for a smooth texture.
Creamy Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best vegetables for my soup?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables for your creamy chicken soup, look for firm, brightly colored carrots and crisp celery without dark spots or wilted leaves. The onion should feel heavy and have a papery skin, while garlic should be plump and intact. Fresh herbs will be fragrant and vibrant, as they significantly enhance the soup’s flavor.
How should I store leftover chicken soup?
Very simple! Store your creamy chicken soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to keep its flavors intact. Label the container with the date to ensure you’re using it within the recommended timeframe.
Can I freeze my homemade soup for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! You can freeze your creamy chicken soup for up to 3 months. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. When ready to serve, warm it gently on the stove, and you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to get back that creamy texture.
What if my soup is too thick after cooking?
No worries! If you find your soup has thickened too much after cooking, you can easily bring it back to your ideal consistency. Simply add a bit of chicken broth or coconut milk a little at a time while stirring until you achieve your desired thickness. Keep tasting along the way, and adjust the seasoning as needed!
Is this creamy chicken soup safe for people with allergies?
Indeed! This recipe is dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions. However, it’s essential to check all packaging for any allergens, especially concerning chicken broth, tapioca starch, or any other added ingredients. If you have pets, be cautious, as some ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to them.
How do I make sure my chicken is cooked perfectly?
Great question! To ensure your chicken is tender and juicy, be careful not to overcook it. Follow the suggested cooking times closely, and when you check for doneness, the chicken should easily shred with a fork or be cut into small pieces. If using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken soup!
Creamy Chicken Soup Delight: Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Stir frequently until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces, black pepper, sea salt, paprika, and turmeric. Mix to coat the chicken with spices.
- Toss in the fresh parsley, thyme, and oregano. Mix well to infuse flavors.
- Continue sautéing until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
- Remove the chicken to chop or shred it, then return it to the pot.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
- Whisk the tapioca starch and water together until smooth, then stir into the soup until desired thickness.
- Divide soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.