Ret Soup
Introduction
Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of chicken soup with potatoes on a chilly day. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy family dinners and is packed with flavor, tenderness, and nourishment.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500g chicken breast, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 400g)
1.2L chicken broth
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
100ml heavy cream
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and carrots, stirring for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
4. Stir in potatoes, salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and chicken is fully cooked.
6. Stir in heavy cream and let cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove bay leaf, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
8. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, comforting soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until they become translucent, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Carrots
Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 sliced carrots to the pot. Stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Incorporate the 500g diced chicken breast into the pot. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the cubed potatoes, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Pour in 1.2 liters of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Stir in Heavy Cream
Add 100ml of heavy cream to the pot and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Remove Bay Leaf and Garnish
Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Garnish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the soup hot and enjoy your delicious, comforting chicken soup with potatoes!
Notes
Storage
Leftover chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This soup can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery or peas for additional flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
Allow the chicken soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting chicken soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices for dipping. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or a light side dish, such as steamed broccoli, to balance the meal. For added seasoning, offer lemon wedges or extra herbs on the side for guests to customize their bowl.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 cup):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Dietary Fiber: 4g
– Sugars: 3g
– Total Fat: 15g
– Saturated Fat: 7g
– Sodium: 600mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken Breast: You can use thighs for a richer flavor or shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
– Olive Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil for similar cooking properties.
– Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use milk or a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk, though this may alter the creaminess.
– Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or cauliflower can be used as substitutes for a different flavor and texture.
– Fresh Parsley: Cilantro or chives can be excellent alternatives for garnishing, or simply omit if unavailable.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is the technique of cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat. This method is used in the recipe to cook the onions, garlic, and carrots, allowing them to develop flavor before adding the other ingredients.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid just below the boiling point. In this recipe, the soup simmers after adding the chicken broth, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the final touch to any dish, enhancing its appearance and flavor. In this recipe, chopped fresh parsley is used as a garnish to add a vibrant color and fresh flavor to the chicken soup.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the process of adding liquid to a hot pan to loosen and dissolve browned bits stuck to the bottom. Although not explicitly mentioned, you can deglaze the pot after sautéing to incorporate any flavorful bits into the soup.
Cooking with Cream
Incorporating heavy cream into the soup adds richness and a smooth texture. It is added towards the end of cooking to maintain its creamy consistency without curdling.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What type of chicken broth is best to use?
Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal as it allows you to control the saltiness of the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or celery for additional flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days and gently reheat before serving.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option or dairy-free version.
Conclusion
There’s nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of comforting chicken soup with potatoes, especially during cold weather. This dish not only nourishes the body but also provides a sense of warmth and togetherness, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture, along with tender chicken and hearty potatoes, create a memorable meal that is sure to leave everyone feeling content. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete experience that will embrace you in comfort.
Chicken and Rice Soup
For a different twist, try adding rice to your chicken soup. The rice absorbs the broth’s flavors and creates a hearty, filling dish that is perfect for a cozy meal.
Vegetable-Loaded Chicken Soup
Enhance your chicken soup by incorporating a variety of vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn. This not only adds color and texture but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish.
Creamy Spinach and Chicken Soup
Add fresh spinach to your soup right before serving for a nutritious boost. The spinach wilts quickly and adds a lovely vibrant color and flavor to the dish.
Lemon Chicken Soup
Incorporate the zest and juice of a lemon to bring brightness to your chicken soup. This refreshing twist will elevate the flavors and make the soup even more satisfying.
Spicy Chicken and Potato Soup
Add some heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This spicy version will give your comfort food a nice kick, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their meals.
Italian Chicken Soup
Infuse your soup with Italian flavors by adding diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano. This creates a lovely Mediterranean twist on a classic comfort dish that your family will adore.
