When you’re craving the cozy flavors of a classic chicken pot pie but want something a bit simpler, this Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the perfect solution. It’s everything you love about chicken pot pie — the creamy filling, tender chicken, and savory vegetables — all transformed into a warm, hearty soup. It’s an ideal recipe for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or any time you need a comforting meal.
In this guide, we’ll cover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, and helpful tips to make the perfect Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. All the Comfort of Pot Pie Without the Fuss
Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of chicken pot pie in a simpler, soup form — no pie crust needed!
2. Quick and Easy
This soup comes together in about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
3. Versatile and Customizable
Add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or make it dairy-free — this soup is easy to customize to your taste.
4. Perfect for Leftover Chicken
Got leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken on hand? This recipe is a great way to use up leftovers and reduce food waste.
5. Freezer-Friendly
Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick and easy future meals.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Soup
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Biscuits or crusty bread for serving
For more cozy meal inspiration, check out this recipe for easy chicken casserole for another comforting classic.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the vegetables. Stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook off the floury taste.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Add the Chicken and Seasonings
- Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add Cream and Vegetables
- Stir in 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream for a rich, creamy texture.
- Add the frozen peas and corn. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the soup is heated through and the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with warm biscuits or crusty bread for dipping.
For another comforting soup idea, try this creamy tomato gnocchi soup for a delicious twist on a classic.
Serving Suggestions
1. Biscuits or Bread
Serve with warm, buttery biscuits or a loaf of crusty French bread for dipping.
2. Salad
Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
3. Crackers
Top with crushed crackers for added crunch and texture.
4. Puff Pastry Toppers
For a twist on the traditional pot pie, bake some puff pastry rounds and float them on top of each bowl of soup.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetarian Version
Swap the chicken for mushrooms, potatoes, or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
2. Dairy-Free Option
Replace the milk and cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
3. Low-Carb Variation
Skip the flour and replace the peas and corn with low-carb veggies like green beans or zucchini.
4. Add More Veggies
Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or broccoli.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup is too thick.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
For another comforting, freezer-friendly meal, try this hearty sausage casserole.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Pot Pie Soup
1. Use High-Quality Chicken Broth
A rich, flavorful chicken broth is the base of this soup. For the best taste, use homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought version. If you want to add extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of chicken bouillon paste.
2. Balance the Seasonings
Don’t forget to taste as you go. The combination of thyme, rosemary, and black pepper adds an earthy and comforting flavor. Adjust the salt level based on the type of broth you’re using, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
3. Cream Consistency
To achieve a rich, creamy texture, use a mix of milk and heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. For extra creaminess, consider adding a spoonful of sour cream or a splash of evaporated milk.
4. Add Fresh Herbs
Adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme, parsley, or chives just before serving brightens up the soup and gives it a gourmet touch.
5. Make It Ahead
This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. Make it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently for an easy and satisfying meal.
Creative Serving Ideas
1. Serve in Bread Bowls
Transform this soup into a restaurant-quality dish by serving it in a crusty bread bowl. Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or French bread and ladle the hot soup inside. The bread absorbs the creamy broth, making it an edible delight!
2. Topped with Puff Pastry
Add a puff pastry topper for an authentic pot pie experience. Bake puff pastry rounds separately and place them on top of each bowl of soup just before serving. It’s a fun and easy way to capture the essence of a classic pot pie.
3. Biscuit Dippers
Bake a batch of flaky biscuits and serve them on the side. For a Southern twist, try cheddar biscuits or buttermilk biscuits for dipping.
4. With a Side of Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a fresh salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad works well.
5. Cracker Topping
For a crunchy finish, sprinkle crushed buttery crackers or saltines over the top of the soup just before serving.
Healthier Version of Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Looking for a lighter version of this comforting classic? Here are a few simple swaps:
- Reduce the Fat: Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the butter and use olive oil for sautéing.
- Add More Veggies: Bulk up the soup with extra vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute whole wheat flour for the all-purpose flour to add extra fiber.
- Low-Sodium Broth: Use a low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Skip the Cream: For a dairy-free option, replace the cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
This way, you can enjoy the flavors of chicken pot pie while keeping things a bit healthier.
Freezer Meal Prep Tips
How to Freeze Chicken Pot Pie Soup
- Cool Completely: Let the soup cool to room temperature before freezing.
- Portion Out: Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave some space for expansion.
- Label and Freeze: Label each container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating from Frozen
- Thaw Overnight: For best results, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat on the Stovetop: Warm the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
- Add Fresh Cream: If the soup was frozen without the cream, add it while reheating for a fresh, creamy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey, especially after the holidays. The flavors pair beautifully with turkey meat.
2. How Do I Prevent the Soup from Curdling?
To avoid curdling, make sure to lower the heat before adding the milk and cream. Stir constantly and avoid boiling the soup once the dairy is added.
3. Can I Add Potatoes to This Soup?
Absolutely! Diced Yukon Gold or russet potatoes make a great addition. Add them along with the carrots and celery and cook until tender.
4. What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can:
- Add an extra tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry.
- Mash a few of the vegetables to naturally thicken the broth.
- Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and thickness.
5. How Long Does Chicken Pot Pie Soup Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best results.
Final Thoughts: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort
This Chicken Pot Pie Soup offers the ultimate blend of comfort, flavor, and ease. It’s a warm, creamy dish that brings together tender chicken, savory vegetables, and herbs in a bowl of pure coziness. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a hearty dish to warm you up, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy.
Don’t forget to pair it with biscuits, crusty bread, or a puff pastry topper for that true pot pie experience. For more comfort food recipes, explore this creamy chicken carbonara or easy chicken casserole.
Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious, heartwarming soup!