Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
If you’re a young professional balancing work, social life, and maybe even a side hustle, finding time to cook can feel impossible. That’s where slow cooker recipes shine! Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a hug in a bowl, rich and creamy, filled with tender chicken and veggies, waiting just for you.
Slow cookers are perfect for busy lifestyles—they allow you to assemble your ingredients in the morning, set the timer, and let them meld together while you tackle your day. You don’t have to hover over the stove; simply stir, set, and forget! Plus, with this recipe, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the fuss, and there’s even a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
The beauty of this pot pie soup is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or leftovers from the week. Simplifying meal prep is just one of the many reasons to embrace slow cooker recipes, turning your kitchen time into a stress-free experience. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Creating a cozy slow cooker chicken pot pie soup is all about gathering the right ingredients for a comforting bowl of warmth. Let’s break it down!
Essential ingredients for the soup base
To start, your soup base needs these essential ingredients for a rich and flavorful experience:
- Chicken: 1 to 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into ¾-inch pieces provide protein and heartiness.
- Potatoes and Veggies: 1 lb of peeled and diced potatoes, complemented by 3-4 stalks of diced celery and a small diced onion to create depth.
- Garlic: A must-have; 3 cloves minced deliver that aromatic essence.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: A 12-ounce bag simplifies your prep while adding color and nutrition.
- Heavy Cream: Add ⅓ cup at the end for that luxurious, creamy finish.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
For those looking to elevate their slow cooker chicken pot pie soup, consider these optional ingredients:
- Spices: Incorporate ½ teaspoon each of dried thyme, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for an herby kick.
- Butter and Flour: ¼ cup of butter and ⅓ cup of flour create a hearty roux.
- Herbs for garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme can give your soup a vibrant touch.
Don’t hesitate to get creative! Trying different herbs or veggies can make this soup your own.
Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Creating a delightful slow cooker chicken pot pie soup can be a straightforward process, and with just a few steps, you can enjoy a warm, comforting meal even on your busiest days. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious dish.
Gather and prepare your ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have everything ready. For our slow cooker chicken pot pie soup, you’ll need:
- For the Soup: Chicken breasts, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, frozen mixed vegetables
- For the Sauce: Unsalted butter, all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative), chicken broth, and an assortment of seasonings.
Chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces and cut the chicken into ¾-inch cubes. This will ensure they cook evenly! If you're short on time, consider using pre-diced veggies or a frozen mix. It saves you prep time and still delivers on flavor.
Make the creamy sauce
The heart of any delicious soup is a rich, creamy sauce. In a large skillet, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in ⅓ cup of flour to form a roux, which will thicken your soup beautifully. Gradually add in one cup of chicken broth, whisking continuously until smooth, then stir in the remaining two cups.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently until slightly thickened. Finally, incorporate your favorite spices—the thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and rosemary—in to elevate the flavors.
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! In your slow cooker, combine the chopped chicken, veggies, and the creamy sauce you just prepared. Gently mix everything with a spatula to ensure the chicken and vegetables are coated in that luscious sauce. This step is crucial—don’t skip it if you want an even distribution of flavors throughout the soup!
Set and forget - cooking time options
With everything combined, simply cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beauty of slow cooking is in its simplicity—you can go about your day while this comforting meal cooks itself!
Final touches and serving preparation
Just before you’re ready to serve, remove the lid and stir in ⅓ cup of heavy cream to enhance the soup's richness. Feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more broth if you prefer it thinner. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. For an extra touch, serve in bowls topped with warm Homemade Biscuits or your preferred store-bought option. Don't forget to sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness!
And there you have it—a cozy, satisfying slow cooker chicken pot pie soup ready to warm you from the inside out. Enjoy this meal on a chilly evening, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your dinner rotation!
Variations on Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Gluten-free Options for the Soup
If you're looking for a gluten-free way to enjoy this delicious slow cooker chicken pot pie soup, it's easy! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a reliable 1:1 gluten-free flour blend like Bob’s Red Mill. This ensures that everyone can savor the rich flavors without any gluten concerns. Just make sure all other ingredients, such as the chicken broth, are labeled gluten-free.
Vegetarian Version of Chicken Pot Pie Soup
For a vegetarian twist on this classic soup, you can easily replace the chicken with your favorite plant-based proteins such as chickpeas or tofu. Additionally, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a rich, comforting flavor. Toss in extra veggies like kale or spinach for added nutrition and color. This version will keep you warm and satisfied while sticking to your diet preferences!
Feel free to get creative—after all, cooking is all about personalizing to your taste!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Tips for thickening the soup if necessary
If your slow cooker chicken pot pie soup turns out thicker than you'd like, don’t fret! It's easy to adjust. Simply stir in an extra ¼ to ½ cup of chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the soup tends to thicken even more as it cools, so adding a splash of broth when reheating leftovers can bring it back to its perfect, creamy texture.
Recommendations for storing leftovers
This delicious soup is perfect for meal prep! For storing leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days. If you want to make it last longer, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if needed. Enjoy every cozy bowl!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
To create a deliciously satisfying meal, pair your slow cooker chicken pot pie soup with:
- Homemade or store-bought biscuits: These fluffy delights soak up the soup beautifully.
- Simple green salad: A light side of mixed greens tossed with a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking, a sourdough or whole grain loaf complements this comforting dish.
Garnishing Ideas for a Restaurant-Quality Feel
Elevate your slow cooker chicken pot pie soup presentation with these garnishing ideas:
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- A drizzle of cream: A light swirl of cream just before serving adds richness.
- Grated cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Parmesan can offer a delightful salty kick.
These simple touches will enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal, making your meal feel truly special!
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Preparation Time
Get ready to dive into a comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken pot pie soup with just 20 minutes of prep. This is the perfect time to chop your veggies and get organized.
Cooking Time
Set your slow cooker and relax! Cook the soup for 4 hours on high or 6 hours on low. This hands-off approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 4 hours and 20 minutes from start to finish. Trust me, the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will be worth every minute!
For more time-saving tips or to explore ingredient substitutions, check out our Slow Cooker Basics. You’ll be a pro in no time!
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Calories per serving
One hearty serving of slow cooker chicken pot pie soup ranges around 464 calories. This comforting dish perfectly balances satisfaction with nutrition, making it a great choice for a cozy evening.
Breakdown of protein, fats, and carbohydrates
In each bowl, you’ll find:
- Protein: 21 g
- Total Fat: 20 g (with 12 g from saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 45 g (including 4 g fiber and 8 g sugar)
These values reflect a well-rounded meal, especially when complemented with a warm homemade biscuit, making this soup a deliciously wholesome option for your next weeknight dinner! For more details on how nutrients can support your health, check out resources like Healthline or Mayo Clinic.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a convenient option for making this slow cooker chicken pot pie soup. Simply add the frozen chicken directly into the slow cooker with the other ingredients. It will cook perfectly while everything simmers. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative to heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Another good choice is to use Greek yogurt, which will add a nice creamy texture while packing extra protein. Just stir it in towards the end for the best results.
How do I store leftovers properly?
To keep your slow cooker chicken pot pie soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and adjust the consistency with a splash of broth if needed.
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
In summary, this slow cooker chicken pot pie soup is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, it's an excellent choice that warms the soul. Enjoy with homemade biscuits for a delightful finish!
Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Equipment
- slow cooker
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Slow Cooker
- 1 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch pieces 1-1 ½ lbs
- 1 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces (about 3 cups, or 2 medium)
- 3-4 stalks celery, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 2-3 teaspoons)
- 1 12-ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables
- ⅓ cup heavy cream to add at the end (may sub half-and-half)
- Homemade Biscuits or use store-bought biscuits
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- fresh thyme leaves for garnish
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth divided
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
Preparation
- To the slow cooker, add chicken, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, and the frozen vegetables. Set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk together gently to form a paste. Add 1 cup chicken broth. Whisk until smooth then add the remaining 2 cups of broth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer.
- Continue to cook until slightly thickened, 4-6 minutes, whisking often. Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- Pour the thick sauce mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Using a spatula, gently toss everything together.
- Cover and cook on the low setting for 6-7 hours or on the high setting for 4-5 hours.
- Just before serving, remove the lid and allow the soup mixture to stop simmering. Stir in the cream. If desired, add additional broth to reach desired thinness/thickness. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup in bowls with Homemade Biscuits on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or fresh thyme, if desired.
Leave a Reply