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 onion, chopped; 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: Hearty Home Classics

I love making Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup on chilly days when I crave something cozy and warming. With the perfect balance of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a smooth creaminess, this soup never fails to hit the spot. Each spoonful feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies in the fridge. You can easily customize it to your taste, making it truly your own. Join me in discovering how easy it is to whip up this comforting dish any day of the week!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:33:36.109Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup, I adjusted the ingredients based on what I had available. I learned that fresh herbs really enhanced the flavor, bringing a vibrant brightness to the dish. That subtle change made all the difference, turning a simple soup into something extraordinary.

The method is straightforward, but one tip I discovered is to sauté the vegetables before adding the broth. This technique not only deepens the flavors but also ensures the vegetables maintain their texture, adding a satisfying crunch amidst the creamy goodness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that comforts and satisfies
Flecks of colorful veggies make it visually appealing
Easily customizable to your favorite ingredients

The Importance of Broth

A good quality chicken broth is fundamental to the success of this soup. Not only does it serve as the base for the dish, but it also enriches the flavor profile. If you're looking to elevate the taste even further, consider using homemade broth, which is often richer and more complex than store-bought versions. Alternatively, low-sodium broth can help control salt levels, especially since you'll be adding seasoning during the cooking process.

If you're in a pinch, vegetable broth can work as a substitute; just be mindful that it will alter the overall flavor slightly. Always taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly, compensating for the broth type you choose.

Customizing Your Veggies

One of the greatest features of this Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. For example, adding peas or corn can introduce a sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully. If you have zucchini or bell peppers, they can be diced and added during the sauté phase for extra flavor and color.

When preparing your vegetables, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Chop them into similar-sized pieces, approximately 1/2-inch cubes, which typically cooks to tenderness within the 15-minute simmer phase. This thoughtful preparation guarantees that the final dish will be satisfying with each spoonful of well-cooked veggies.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. In fact, many find that the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It should keep well for up to three months. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creaminess and prevent separation. If necessary, you can always stir in a splash of broth or cream to restore its smooth texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 onion, chopped
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

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in the shredded chicken and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Incorporate Potatoes and Beans

Add the diced potatoes and green beans to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Finish with Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an extra 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Your delicious Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to replace the vegetables with what you have on hand, such as spinach or corn, to customize the soup to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy soup holds up beautifully as a standalone meal, but pairing it with crusty bread or a side salad can elevate your dining experience. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread, which is ideal for dipping.

If you want to add a gourmet touch that's still cozy, consider garnishing each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving. These small additions enhance the flavor and presentation, making each bowl feel special.

Troubleshooting Cream Separation

If you've ever encountered a problem with cream separation in your soups, you'll be happy to know there are simple solutions. Start by tempering the cream: slowly add a small amount of the hot broth to the cream before incorporating it into the main pot. This helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth consistency in your finished soup.

Another tip is to avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream. Keep the heat to a gentle simmer; this preserves that desirable creamy texture. If you find your soup has separated despite precautions, an immersion blender can gently re-emulsify it as you pulse, restoring its velvety finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work well and can save you time in prep.

→ How long can I store the soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or any dairy-free cream for a similar texture.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and reheated, though the veggies might be softer.