Ultra Creamy Chicken Soup

Name: Ultra Creamy Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I love making Ultra Creamy Chicken Soup on chilly evenings because it brings warmth and comfort to the table. The moment I take that first spoonful, I can feel the creaminess enveloping my taste buds while the tender chicken and fresh veggies provide a beautiful contrast. It’s a recipe that’s not only easy to prepare but also allows me to use leftovers or whatever I have in the fridge. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:06:28.967Z

When I first experimented with this Ultra Creamy Chicken Soup, I wasn't quite sure how it would turn out. However, blending cream with the broth instead of just adding it on top created a luxurious texture that was simply irresistible. I also made sure to use homemade broth, which enhanced the flavor tremendously and made the soup truly comforting.

One tip I learned is to sauté the vegetables before adding the liquid. This not only softens them but also draws out their natural sweetness, making your soup even more delicious. It’s a small step that makes a big difference, trust me!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly rich and creamy texture that feels indulgent
Loaded with wholesome ingredients for a balanced meal
A comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days

      

Cooking Techniques for Creaminess

Achieving the ultra-creamy texture of this chicken soup is all about the balance of ingredients and techniques. When blending the soup, you can control the level of creaminess by using an immersion blender. Blending just half of the soup helps retain some chunky pieces, giving it a more rustic feel. If you prefer an entirely smooth soup, blend until glossy, ensuring a uniform texture that pairs well with every spoonful.

The heavy cream is crucial in elevating the soup’s richness. I recommend adding it at the end and allowing it to simmer gently on low heat for about 5 minutes. This not only helps to preserve its creamy quality but also gives the flavors ample time to meld together without curdling, which can happen if you add it too early or at too high a temperature.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

If you find yourself short on heavy cream or want a lighter version, consider using coconut milk or half-and-half as a substitute. These alternatives maintain a creamy texture but introduce different flavors. Coconut milk, for instance, will also add a subtle sweetness and a tropical twist to your chicken soup.

Additionally, you can mix in other vegetables based on what you have on hand. For example, adding frozen peas or chopped spinach during the simmering stage can enhance nutrition and color. If you opt for spinach, be sure to add it towards the end to avoid overcooking it and losing its vibrant green hue.

Storage and Serving Tips

This Ultra Creamy Chicken Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir frequently and add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup thickens too much. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers; it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may slightly change upon thawing.

Serving ideas are abundant with this soup. I enjoy topping it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. If you're looking for more crunch, homemade croutons or crispy bacon bits complement the creaminess beautifully. Pair it with a warm baguette or buttery crackers for a complete comfort meal on chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start preparing your delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Ultra Creamy Chicken Soup:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, add the shredded chicken and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired creaminess. For a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup.

Stir in Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors, and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, you can add some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. This adds depth and enhances the creamy character of the soup.

Enhancing Flavor

To elevate the flavor profile of the soup, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. This will deglaze the pot, incorporating those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow it to reduce for a minute before adding the chicken broth, which will deepen the overall taste of the soup.

In addition to dried thyme, you might experiment with other herbs like rosemary or a touch of smoked paprika for added complexity. Both bring their own unique notes, with rosemary offering a woodsy aroma and smoked paprika contributing a subtle smokiness that can enhance the chicken flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a larger crowd, this recipe is easily scalable. Simply double the ingredients, using a larger pot to accommodate the extra volume. Keep in mind that the cooking time for the sautéing stage may remain the same, but ensure you give the soup enough time to simmer, adjusting the broth and cream accordingly to maintain that rich consistency.

On the flip side, if you're cooking for one or two, this recipe can be halved without issue. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, especially during the blending process, as smaller batches can heat and cool faster.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when making creamy soups is curdling, which can occur if the cream is added too quickly or at high temperatures. To avoid this, always reduce heat to low before stirring in the cream, allowing it to meld smoothly with the soup without overheating.

In case the soup turns out too thick after refrigerating, whisk in a bit of chicken broth or water when reheating. This quick fix can help restore the desired consistency without sacrificing flavor. Also, taste-testing throughout the cooking process is crucial; adjust seasoning as you go for a well-balanced final product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure to cook the chicken until fully done before shredding it.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, corn, or potatoes based on your preference!

→ Is there a way to make it healthier?

You can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use a non-dairy milk alternative.