As the chilly winds swirl outside, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of soup to chase the cold away. I first whipped up this Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup on one of those gray, drizzly days when comfort food was calling my name louder than usual. Imagine rich, creamy broth packed with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, all while being completely dairy-free and Whole30 compliant. It’s like your favorite chicken pot pie, but in cozy soup form!
The best part? It’s one of those rare dishes that meets the demands of both a busy lifestyle and those pesky dietary restrictions. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that not only warms your heart but also doesn’t compromise on health. Whether you’re trying to shake off fast-food blues or simply looking for a nourishing weeknight option, this soup has got your back. Grab your pot and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why is Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting and delicious, this soup is a bowlful of warmth that rivals any traditional chicken pot pie. Healthy ingredients and dairy-free options let you indulge guilt-free. Quick to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Versatile, you can customize it with leftover turkey or chickpeas. Whether the sun is shining or snow is falling, this soup is your new favorite cozy companion!
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make this comforting dish!
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; feel free to use butter or ghee for a richer taste.
- Onion – Essential for aromatic depth; yellow onion works best for flavor.
- Diced Carrots – Sweetens and brightens the soup; fresh carrots are preferable to frozen for texture.
- Diced Celery – Brings crunch and a little bitterness; it’s the classic soup backbone.
- Baby Gold Potatoes – Blends for creaminess and heartiness; swap with Yukon gold, avoiding Russet for texture.
- Garlic – Boosts the soup’s flavor with its aromatic notes; always opt for fresh garlic.
Herbs & Seasonings
- Salt & Black Pepper – Fundamental for elevating all the flavors; season to taste.
- Dried Rosemary – Contributes a woodsy flavor; fresh rosemary can replace it at a 1:1 ratio.
- Dried Thyme – Delivers earthy notes; you can use fresh thyme for a lively twist, measuring 1-1.5 teaspoons.
- Dried Ground Sage – Imparts the classic pot pie flavor; if fresh is on hand, increase quantity as needed.
For the Protein & Creaminess
- Chicken Stock or Broth – Forms the soup’s flavor foundation; opt for high-quality broth or bone broth to enhance taste.
- Canned Coconut Milk or Almond Milk – Adds the desired creaminess; choose full-fat coconut milk for the richest texture.
- Cooked Cubed Chicken – Packs the soup with protein; leftovers or rotisserie chicken make for a quick addition.
For a Touch of Sweetness
- Frozen Peas – Brightens the dish with color; use fresh peas for an even fresher taste if available.
Garnish
- Fresh Parsley or Additional Herbs – Enhances the soup’s presentation and adds a pop of freshness.
Now you’ve got everything you need to whip up this incredible Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup! Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
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Cook Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and baby gold potatoes, sautéing for 12-15 minutes until they are nearly tender and fragrant.
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Build Flavor: Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and ground sage, allowing it to cook for an additional minute to release those delicious aromas.
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Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are cooked but still firm for the perfect texture.
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Thicken: Remove 1-1.5 cups of the soup mixture and blend it with coconut milk until smooth. Return the blended mixture back to the pot, swirling to combine the flavors beautifully.
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Finish: Add in the cooked cubed chicken and frozen peas, stirring to heat through for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot, garnished with fresh parsley or herbs.
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for a flavorful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Variations
Feeling inspired to make this dish uniquely yours? Let’s get creative in the kitchen!
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Turkey Swap: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a delightful post-holiday twist. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor, making each spoonful completely satisfying.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with chickpeas or cubed tofu, and opt for vegetable broth to create a hearty vegetarian version. This swap keeps it filling while providing plant-based goodness.
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Creamy Cauliflower: For a lower-carb option, swap half the potatoes with cauliflower florets. When blended, they create a creamy base that’s just as comforting!
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for some heat. A little kick can elevate the soup’s warmth, making it perfect for those chilly evenings.
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Herb Boost: Experiment by adding fresh herbs such as dill or basil, which can complement the traditional flavors beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving adds a pop of color and flavor.
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Zucchini Noodles: For a fun twist, toss in zucchini noodles for a noodle-like texture without the carbs. They provide a lovely crunch and absorb the soup’s rich flavor.
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Coconut Lime Twist: Infuse some tropical vibes by squeezing a bit of lime juice into the soup and using coconut milk as the base. It’s a refreshing change that takes comfort food to a new level.
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Nutty Finish: For a unique crunch, top your soup with toasted nuts or seeds, such as pepitas or slivered almonds. It adds a delightful texture, making every bite a new experience!
Make Ahead Options
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can chop and refrigerate the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and baby gold potatoes) up to 24 hours in advance to keep them fresh and ready to cook. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add in the broth, and mix in the cooked chicken and peas. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of soup with minimal effort, allowing you to savor every comforting bite!
Storage Tips for Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this healthy chicken pot pie soup due to texture changes in the potatoes once thawed. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of broth or coconut milk to restore creaminess.
What to Serve with Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup?
Nothing complements a fragrant, creamy soup like the perfect side dishes. Get ready to elevate your meal with these delightful pairings!
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is the ideal companion for soaking up every spoonful of soup. The textures of soft bread against the creamy soup are simply irresistible.
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Mixed Green Salad: Lighten up your meal with a vibrant salad featuring fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette. The crispness offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
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Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Add depth with roasted veggies tossed in garlic and herbs. Their caramelization enhances the soup’s flavors and adds a lovely bite.
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Sweet Potato Biscuits: These tender, buttery biscuits add a touch of sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory elements of the soup. They’re great for dunking!
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a pop of green and a touch of elegance to your table. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
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Sauvignon Blanc: Sip on a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Its crisp acidity harmonizes beautifully with the richness of the soup, enhancing each bite.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich and creamy dessert made from avocados and dark chocolate. This indulgent yet healthy treat leaves you satisfied without the guilt.
Feel free to mix and match these options, creating your perfect meal alongside the comforting Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup!
Expert Tips for Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup
- Potato Perfection: Stick to Yukon gold potatoes for the best creaminess; other types can alter the desired texture.
- Herb Adjustments: Fresh herbs can elevate flavor, but if dried are your preference, use less to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Custom Protein: If you’re using leftover chicken or turkey, make sure it’s cubed evenly for consistent heating in the soup.
- Texture Management: Avoid blending all the soup; leaving some chunky ingredients creates a more satisfying texture.
- Quick Storage: For best texture and flavor, enjoy the soup fresh; refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice just before serving for a fresh brightness that complements the healthy chicken pot pie soup.
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
When making Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup, I highly recommend using Yukon gold potatoes. They provide a creamy texture when blended and maintain their integrity. Avoid russet potatoes, as they can become mushy and ruin the overall mouthfeel of the soup.
How should I store leftovers of this chicken pot pie soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop, as this helps maintain the creamy consistency. I usually add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk while reheating to restore some moisture—it works wonders!
Can I freeze this soup for later?
Unfortunately, freezing the Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is not recommended due to the texture changes that occur with the potatoes after thawing. If you’re considering future meals, I suggest making the soup fresh when possible to enjoy it at its best!
What if I have leftovers that include fresh herbs?
Absolutely, you can include fresh herbs in your leftovers! Just remember, fresh herbs can lose their potency when stored. So, if you’re planning to keep any soup for later, it might be best to add the fresh parsley or additional herbs just before serving. This will ensure that your dish maintains its vibrant flavor.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is dairy-free and Whole30 compliant, making it great for those with lactose intolerance or sticking to a Whole30 diet. If you’re preparing it for someone with allergies, always ensure your broth and other ingredients are free of allergens. You can easily adjust the recipe for vegetarian diets by replacing chicken with chickpeas or tofu, using vegetable broth, and omitting the protein entirely!
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup That Comforts Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and baby gold potatoes, sautéing for 12-15 minutes until they are nearly tender and fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and ground sage, allowing it to cook for an additional minute to release those delicious aromas.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are cooked but still firm.
- Remove 1-1.5 cups of the soup mixture and blend it with coconut milk until smooth. Return the blended mixture back to the pot, swirling to combine the flavors beautifully.
- Add in the cooked cubed chicken and frozen peas, stirring to heat through for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot, garnished with fresh parsley or herbs.