Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe is the perfect dish for cozy nights or busy weeknights. With a creamy cauliflower sauce that replaces heavy cream, this soup is a guilt-free indulgence. It’s low in carbs and calories while being high in protein, making it suitable for various diets. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or meal prep ideas, this delicious soup will satisfy your cravings without the extra calories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor – The combination of savory chicken and a creamy cauliflower base makes every bite irresistible.
- Quick to Prepare – With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can enjoy this hearty soup in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients – Use leftover chicken or turkey and any frozen vegetables you have on hand to customize your soup.
- Healthy Comfort Food – This soup offers all the warmth of traditional pot pie but with a healthier twist.
- Dairy-Free Option – Made without dairy, it’s perfect for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pan
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pan – Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing enough space for all ingredients.
- High-speed blender or food processor – This tool creates the smooth cauliflower sauce that gives the soup its creamy texture.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 3 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
- 1 cup frozen vegetables (corn, carrots, green beans & peas mix)
- 8 ounces cooked chopped chicken breast or leftover turkey
For Flavoring
- 2 teaspoons Better than Bouillon chicken base dissolved in 1 cup of hot water (can use 1 cup chicken broth too)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (can sub with grated parmesan cheese)
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
Step 1: Creamy Cauliflower Sauce
- In a large soup pan, add fresh chopped cauliflower and enough water to almost cover florets.
- Heat to medium heat; cover and cook until the cauliflower is fork-tender. Drain the water but keep it as you will use it later.
- Add the cooked cauliflower to a high-speed blender or food processor. To that, add the olive oil, nutritional yeast, sage, thyme, garlic, dehydrated onions, a pinch of salt & pepper, and 1/4 cup of cooking liquid.
- Puree until smooth.
Step 2: For The Soup
- In a clean soup pan, add frozen vegetables and sauté for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Add the cooked chopped chicken (in bite-sized pieces) and stir well.
- Mix the bouillon with 1 cup of hot water and stir it into the pan.
- Add the pureed cauliflower mixture to the cooked chicken and vegetables. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Cook until flavors meld together for about 5 minutes. If it’s too thick, add more water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Ladle into bowls and enjoy! Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe serves six people and takes only 30 minutes from start to finish! Enjoy this comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying!
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can customize it with various toppings and pairings to enhance the flavors and presentation.
Toppings
- Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Croutons – Add crunchy croutons for texture; consider using gluten-free options if needed.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado complements the soup’s flavors while adding healthy fats.
Accompaniments
- Whole Grain Bread – Serve with slices of whole grain or gluten-free bread for dipping.
- Salad – A light side salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the soup.
- Cheese – Grated cheese, like parmesan, can be sprinkled on top for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
To ensure your Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor profile of your soup.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Blend Smoothly – Make sure to blend the cauliflower sauce until completely smooth for a creamy texture.
- Control Consistency – If the soup is too thick, gradually add more broth or water until it’s just right.
- Cook Thoroughly – Allowing the soup to simmer helps all the flavors meld beautifully together.
- Store Properly – Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up that delicious soup broth; try making it with whole wheat or gluten-free bread.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil brings added nutrients and flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that compliments the soup’s taste without overpowering it.
- Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds a refreshing touch.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunch and pairs well with creamy soups.
- Greek Yogurt Dip with Veggies – A healthy dip served with carrot sticks or celery provides a nice contrast in textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a healthy chicken pot pie soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Cauliflower: If you cook the cauliflower too long, it can become mushy. Aim for fork-tender to maintain texture.
- Ignoring the Seasoning: A bland soup is disappointing. Don’t skip the salt and spices; they enhance flavor. Taste as you go.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excessive broth will dilute the soup’s richness. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Forgetting to Blend Smoothly: Chunky cauliflower can ruin the creamy texture. Blend thoroughly until completely smooth for best results.
- Neglecting Storage Tips: Improper storage can spoil your leftovers quickly. Store in airtight containers for freshness and longevity.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add water or broth if it’s too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I make this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?
If you prefer, you can use grated parmesan cheese as a substitute in this soup recipe.
How do I customize this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein sources based on your preferences!
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children while still being nutritious.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a day ahead; just store it properly in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.
Final Thoughts
This healthy chicken pot pie soup recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various veggies or proteins to suit your taste. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that feels indulgent without compromising health. Try it today!
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warmth of this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe, a comforting dish perfect for cozy evenings or busy weeknights. This creamy soup features a cauliflower sauce that replaces heavy cream, making it a guilt-free delight. Low in carbs and calories but high in protein, it’s ideal for various diets without sacrificing flavor. With savory chicken and a medley of vegetables, each spoonful offers the satisfaction of traditional pot pie with a nutritious twist. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this soup is an excellent choice for meal prep or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, carrots, green beans & peas)
- 8 ounces cooked chicken breast or leftover turkey
- 2 teaspoons Better than Bouillon chicken base (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (or grated parmesan cheese)
- 2 cloves garlic
- Olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- In a large soup pan, cook cauliflower in water until fork-tender. Drain, saving some liquid.
- Blend cauliflower with olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic, and seasoning until smooth.
- Sauté frozen vegetables in the cleaned pan until warm. Add chicken and stir.
- Mix bouillon with hot water and add to the pan along with the pureed cauliflower mix.
- Heat through for about 5 minutes; adjust thickness with more liquid if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
