Creamy Chicken And Vegetable Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken And Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup potatoes, diced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Classics

I love making Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup on chilly days when a warm bowl of comfort is exactly what I need. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich, creamy broth warms me from the inside out. Each step of this recipe is a joy, from sautéing the onions to watching the vibrant colors of the vegetables brighten the pot. It’s a family favorite, perfect for leftovers too, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Let’s dive into this hearty and satisfying recipe together!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-02-10T21:50:36.785Z

When I first made this Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup, I was experimenting with how to create a rich flavor without excessive cream. By using a mixture of broth and a touch of sour cream, I found the perfect balance that kept it light yet satisfying. The addition of fresh herbs right at the end gives it a pop of flavor that had my family coming back for seconds!

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the onions and garlic until they're caramelized. This adds depth to the soup and makes it more aromatic. On busy days, I prepare the soup ahead of time and let it simmer slowly, enhancing all the flavors. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a delightful meal!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture with a medley of fresh vegetables
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins
Perfect as a comforting dish for cold evenings
Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Key Techniques for Creamy Soup

The secret to achieving a luscious, creamy texture in this soup lies in the gradual incorporation of heavy cream. After cooking the vegetables and chicken, remove the pot from heat before stirring in the cream. This helps prevent the cream from curdling, ensuring a smooth finish. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a subtle twist in flavor while still retaining some creaminess.

Another essential technique is properly sautéing the vegetables. Begin with medium heat, allowing the onions to soften and become translucent. This process should take about five minutes. The goal is to develop a base layer of flavor. Adding garlic just before the other vegetables ensures it doesn’t burn, which can lead to a bitter taste. This step sets the stage for the entire soup, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this soup plays a vital role, contributing to its overall taste and texture. For example, the potatoes not only add heartiness but also help thicken the soup as they soften. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider using cauliflower florets in place of potatoes, providing a similar texture with fewer carbs.

When it comes to the vegetables, feel free to get creative. If you have leftover veggies in your fridge, they can easily find a home in this recipe. Corn, peas, or even spinach can be delightful additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly; softer vegetables like spinach will only need a few minutes to wilt in the hot soup just before serving.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Combine all of these ingredients for a deliciously creamy soup.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Stir in carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooking for 5-7 minutes.

Add the Chicken and Broth

Add the shredded chicken, green beans, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Stir in Cream

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with your favorite bread.

Enjoy your delicious creamy soup! Perfect for sharing.

Pro Tips

For a healthier version, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat yogurt or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy chicken and vegetable soup stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency, as it may thicken during storage.

If you prefer making the soup ahead of time, consider preparing everything but the cream. Cook the vegetables and chicken together in the broth, then let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat the soup and stir in the cream right before serving. This not only enhances the flavors, which meld beautifully overnight, but also keeps the soup luxuriously rich.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken and vegetable soup with crusty bread for dipping, which complements the rich broth perfectly. A side of fresh garden salad adds a crisp contrast, balancing the meal beautifully. For a heartier option, you can pour the soup over cooked rice or noodles for a filling twist.

Another delightful way to elevate your serving is by adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. It melts slightly into the warm soup, enhancing the savory profile. For a flavor boost, try a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to add brightness and a zing to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat it slowly on the stove.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, corn, or peas.

→ Is this soup suitable for kids?

Absolutely! It's a nutritious and delicious option that's usually a hit with kids.