Healthy Chicken Pie Soup: A Lighter Take on a Classic Dish

Healthy Chicken Pie Soup: A Lighter Take on a Classic Dish

Craving the comforting taste of chicken pie but looking for a healthier option? Healthy Chicken Pie Soup brings you all the delicious flavors of the classic dish in a lighter, more nutritious form. This soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with protein and vegetables, making it perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Rich and Creamy Without Heavy Cream: Uses milk and a light thickener for a creamy texture without extra fat.
• Loaded with Vegetables: Carrots, celery, peas, and potatoes add fiber and nutrients.
• High in Protein: Lean chicken breast makes this soup filling and satisfying.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in a single pot for minimal cleanup.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Heats up well for leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Onion
• Carrots
• Celery
• Potatoes
• Peas
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• Flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Thyme, parsley, bay leaf

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add more oil if needed. Cook onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom to mix in the flavors. Add potatoes, thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Shred the Chicken: While the soup simmers, cut the cooked chicken into small pieces and return it to the pot.
5. Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together milk and flour or cornstarch. Slowly add to the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Add Final Ingredients: Stir in peas and let them cook for 5 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute cornstarch or arrowroot powder for flour.
• Low-Carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower.
• Extra Creamy: Add a splash of Greek yogurt or coconut cream.
• Different Herbs: Try rosemary, sage, or basil for unique flavors.

Serving & Storage

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding broth or milk if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes! Just shred and add it during the simmering stage.

What pairs well with this soup? Serve with whole-grain bread, a fresh salad, or a light biscuit.

Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Frozen peas, carrots, and green beans work well.

How do I thicken the soup more? Increase the flour/cornstarch or mash some of the potatoes.

Is this kid-friendly? Yes! It’s mild and packed with familiar flavors kids love.

Can I substitute the chicken? Try turkey, tofu, or white beans for a different twist.

Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding milk and thickener at the end.

Can I prepare this soup in advance? Yes! The flavors get even better after sitting overnight, making it great for meal prep.

The Bottom Line

Healthy Chicken Pie Soup is a warm, nutritious, and satisfying dish that delivers all the comfort of traditional chicken pie without the heaviness. Whether you’re making it for dinner, meal prepping, or freezing for later, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious bowl of homemade goodness!