There’s something magical about a warm, creamy bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Soup. It’s everything you love about traditional chicken pot pie savory chicken, tender veggies, and a rich, creamy broth without the hassle of making a crust. Perfect for cold nights, busy weeknights, or when you just need a bowl of comfort, this soup is a go-to recipe for many home cooks.
But what makes it truly special? It’s versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable! Whether you prefer a classic version, a healthier take, or a slow-cooked option, this recipe has something for everyone.
Chef’s Feedback: “Chicken Pot Pie Soup is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s rich, hearty, and has that nostalgic home-cooked flavor. The best part? You can make it your own with different ingredients and cooking methods!”
Now, let’s dive into what makes this soup so beloved, starting with its delicious ingredients.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Try This Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
Still wondering if you should try this recipe? Here’s why it’s worth making today!
It’s the Ultimate Comfort Food
Chicken Pot Pie Soup combines everything you love about a classic chicken pot pie tender chicken, hearty veggies, and a creamy broth without the hassle of making a crust. It’s warm, cozy, and satisfying in every bite!
“This soup is like a hug in a bowl. It’s my family’s favorite dish during winter!” – A Happy Home Cook
It’s Easy to Customize
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can:
- Make it healthier by swapping in low-fat dairy or extra vegetables.
- Adjust the thickness to your preference by adding more or less broth.
- Cook it in different ways, like using a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Pro Tip: Add a homemade biscuit on top for a true pot pie experience!
It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re making a quick family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a gathering, Chicken Pot Pie Soup is always a hit!
- Great for cold nights when you need a warming dish.
- Ideal for meal prep since it stores and reheats well.
- A family-friendly recipe that even picky eaters will love.
“This soup was a game-changer for my family. We make it at least once a month!” , A Satisfied Reader
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
To make the perfect bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Soup, you need the right combination of ingredients. Below, we’ll go over the essential components, some great substitutions, and tips for picking the best chicken for your soup.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to create a delicious, creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness and flavor |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | Builds a flavorful base |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium | Adds sweetness and texture |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks | Brings out a fresh, herby taste |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Enhances the aroma |
| Flour | ¼ cup | Thickens the soup |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Forms the flavorful base |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creates the creamy texture |
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups (shredded) | Provides protein and heartiness |
| Frozen peas | ½ cup | Adds a pop of sweetness |
| Corn (optional) | ½ cup | Gives a slight crunch |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Enhances flavor |
| Thyme (dried) | ½ tsp | Adds depth and warmth |
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this soup is that you can customize it based on dietary preferences or what you have in your kitchen.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the flour and use cauliflower instead of potatoes.
- Extra Protein: Add bacon bits or extra chicken.
Pro Tip: If you love thick soup, mix in some mashed potatoes or pureed cauliflower to get a richer texture without adding flour!
Best Types of Chicken to Use
What’s the best kind of chicken for Chicken Pot Pie Soup? Here are some great options:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Just shred and add it in.
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and mild, perfect if you want a lighter soup.
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, ideal for a richer taste.
- Leftover Turkey: A great swap if you have Thanksgiving leftovers!
Did You Know? Cooking the chicken in broth instead of water infuses it with extra flavor, making your soup even tastier!
For dessert after this savory treat, consider pairing with a sweet finish like these delightful Earl Grey Cookies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to put everything together. Cooking Chicken Pot Pie Soup is a simple process, but getting the right texture and flavor requires a few key steps. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to make the perfect bowl of creamy, hearty soup.
Step 1: Preparing the Base – Sautéing Vegetables and Aromatics
Every great soup starts with a flavor-packed base. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pro Tip: Cooking the vegetables slowly releases their natural sweetness, making your soup even tastier.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken and Making the Creamy Broth
Now, let’s build the heart of the soup the rich and creamy broth!
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the vegetables and stir well. This helps thicken the soup.
- Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper to season the broth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Stir in shredded cooked chicken and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
Chef’s Note: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth. If you want it thicker, let it simmer longer to reduce.
For more expert soup thickening tips, check out this guide from Serious Eats – How to Make Creamy Soups.
Step 3: Thickening the Soup for the Perfect Consistency
To make your Chicken Pot Pie Soup extra creamy:
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
- If you want an even richer texture, add ½ cup of whole milk or a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Did You Know? The secret to a perfectly thick soup is letting it simmer long enough to develop its texture naturally.
Step 4: Adding the Final Touches – Herbs and Seasonings
To make your soup truly irresistible, finish it off with these final touches:
- Stir in ½ cup of frozen peas and ½ cup of corn for extra sweetness and color.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Pro Tip: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the creaminess!
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Want to take your Chicken Pot Pie Soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips and common mistakes to avoid.
How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture
Getting that silky-smooth consistency is easier than you think!
- Use full-fat dairy like heavy cream or whole milk for a richer taste.
- Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to make it extra smooth.
- Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) if you need to thicken it quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking
Even the best cooks can make mistakes! Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the roux , Not cooking the flour properly can lead to a raw flour taste.
- Overcooking the cream , High heat can cause the dairy to curdle. Keep the heat low when adding cream!
- Adding too much salt early on , Always season at the end to avoid an overly salty soup.
Quick Fix: If your soup becomes too salty, add a small boiled potato to absorb the excess salt.
Making It Ahead: Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about Chicken Pot Pie Soup is that it tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months (but leave out the dairy until reheating).
- Reheating: Warm on low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent separation.
Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, let the soup thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Soup
One of the best things about Chicken Pot Pie Soup is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a healthier version, a quicker method, or a unique twist, there’s a variation for everyone!
Classic vs. Modern Variations
The traditional Chicken Pot Pie Soup sticks to the basics chicken, vegetables, cream, and a thick, hearty broth. But if you want to experiment, here are some fun ideas:
- Creamier Version: Add an extra ½ cup of cream cheese for a richer taste.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar to make a cheesy pot pie soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Fun Fact: Some people love adding a buttery biscuit topping to make it feel even more like a classic pot pie!
Healthy and Low-Calorie Options
If you’re looking for a lighter version, here are some easy swaps:
- Use milk instead of heavy cream This keeps the soup creamy but lowers fat.
- Replace flour with cornstarch It thickens the soup without extra carbs.
- Increase the veggies Add mushrooms, zucchini, or kale for more nutrition.
Chef’s Tip: Blending part of the soup with an immersion blender can make it creamy without adding extra dairy!
Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Methods
Don’t have time to stand by the stove? Try these easy cooking methods:
Slow Cooker Method
- Add all ingredients except the dairy and flour into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Before serving, stir in cream and thickener, then let it cook for 10 more minutes.
Instant Pot Method
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in the Instant Pot using the Sauté function.
- Add chicken, broth, and seasonings, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release pressure, shred the chicken, and stir in cream and peas.
Pro Tip: Using an Instant Pot cuts the cooking time in half without sacrificing flavor!
Need more healthy ingredient substitutions? Check out this helpful guide from Healthline – Healthy Cooking Swaps.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Now that your Chicken Pot Pie Soup is ready, it’s time to make it a meal! Here are some perfect pairings and fun serving ideas.
Best Bread and Crackers to Serve with the Soup
Soup is always better with something crunchy on the side. Try serving it with:
- Flaky biscuits – Classic pot pie flavor in every bite!
- Crusty French bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Buttery crackers – A simple and crunchy pairing.
Pro Tip: Toasting the bread with a little garlic butter makes it even better!
Side Dishes That Complement the Flavors
Want to turn your soup into a full meal? Here are some great side dishes:
- Fresh green salad – The crispiness balances the creamy soup.
- Roasted vegetables – Try brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for a cozy side.
- Garlic mashed potatoes – Extra comfort food vibes!
Chef’s Note: Chicken Pot Pie Soup is filling on its own, so keep sides light and fresh.
Beverage Pairings for a Cozy Meal
Looking for the perfect drink to enjoy with your soup? Here are some tasty options:
- White wine – A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well.
- Hot apple cider – A warm and cozy drink for chilly nights.
- Iced tea or lemonade – Refreshing choices to balance the richness.
Fun Fact: Some people love serving this soup with a cold glass of milk, just like grandma used to!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before you start making your own Chicken Pot Pie Soup, here are answers to some common questions people have about this delicious dish.
Can I Make Chicken Pot Pie Soup Without Cream?
Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can:
- Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
- Try blended cauliflower or potatoes for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Skip the cream altogether and enjoy a broth-based version of the soup.
Pro Tip: Using a splash of unsweetened cashew milk gives a similar creaminess without altering the taste!
How Do I Store and Freeze Leftovers?
Chicken Pot Pie Soup stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal!
- In the fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Important: If freezing, leave out the cream and add it after reheating to prevent curdling.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
If your soup is too thin, you can:
- Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
- Mash some of the potatoes if you’ve added them.
- Simmer the soup longer to naturally thicken it.
Fun Fact: Traditional pot pie filling is thickened with flour or cornstarch, so these methods work perfectly!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen veggies work great in Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Just add them towards the end of cooking so they don’t overcook.
- Frozen peas and carrots , Just toss them in before serving.
- Frozen mixed veggies , A quick and easy option!
- Frozen corn , Adds a natural sweetness to the soup.
Chef’s Tip: Let frozen vegetables thaw slightly before adding to prevent cooling down the soup.
Conclusion
If you love rich, creamy, and comforting meals, Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the perfect recipe for you. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor, making it a must-try for any home cook. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients and make a pot today!
Explore more comforting recipes on Empire of Recipes for inspiration in your kitchen.
