This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Soup is the ultimate comfort food made healthier! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth, it’s everything you love about classic chicken pot pie—without the crust. Each spoonful delivers cozy, savory flavors perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Not only is this soup comforting, but it’s also simple to make and loaded with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Customize it with your choice of milk or add more vegetables for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
- Stir in the almond milk, thyme, parsley, and cooked chicken. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the frozen peas and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes / Cooking Time: 35 minutes / Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 per serving / Servings: 4
A Light and Refreshing Delight: Broccoli and Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Fresh, vibrant, and incredibly nourishing, the Broccoli and Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a true celebration of wholesome ingredients. This salad is a go-to for anyone seeking a delightful side dish or a satisfying standalone meal that bursts with flavor and texture. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the way it highlights the natural goodness of fresh vegetables.
Why This Salad is a Must-Try
The beauty of this salad is its balance between taste, nutrition, and versatility. The crunch of fresh broccoli and green beans contrasts beautifully with the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, creating a medley of textures and flavors that feel like a symphony on your palate. A zesty, tangy dressing elevates the entire dish, adding depth without overpowering the natural flavors of the vegetables.
This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s also a nutrient powerhouse. Broccoli and green beans are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making this salad a healthy choice that supports overall wellness. Cherry tomatoes, with their lycopene content, bring added health benefits and a burst of vibrant color to the mix.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the standout features of this salad is its versatility. It can be served as a light starter, a refreshing side dish to complement a heartier main course, or even as the star of the meal for those who prefer a lighter option. It’s equally at home on a casual lunch table as it is at a festive dinner party.
Moreover, this salad is a fantastic choice for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy its crisp, refreshing flavors for days. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a week’s worth of healthy lunches, this recipe is an excellent option.
Customizing the Salad to Your Taste
One of the joys of preparing this dish is how customizable it is. You can add a variety of ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds, adds a delightful crunch and extra nutrients. Cheese lovers can sprinkle a bit of feta or parmesan for a creamy, salty punch. If you prefer a protein boost, grilled chicken, tofu, or boiled eggs make excellent additions.
For those who love experimenting with flavors, the dressing can be tailored to your liking. Add a dash of Dijon mustard for extra tang, a drizzle of honey for sweetness, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Broccoli: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Broccoli is often hailed as a superfood for good reason. It is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and potassium, and it boasts powerful antioxidants that support immune health, skin vitality, and bone strength. Eating broccoli regularly is linked to reduced inflammation and improved digestive health.
Green Beans: A Crisp and Nutritious Addition
Green beans are low in calories yet packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They are also a great source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion. Their satisfying crunch and slightly sweet flavor make them a perfect companion to the robust broccoli.
Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with Flavor and Benefits
Cherry tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also incredibly nutritious. They are loaded with lycopene, a potent antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain diseases. Their juicy sweetness balances the earthier flavors of the broccoli and green beans, creating a harmonious dish.
Tips for Preparing the Perfect Salad
- Choose the Freshest Ingredients: Opt for vibrant, crisp vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green broccoli and firm, unblemished green beans.
- Blanch for Perfect Texture: Blanching the broccoli and green beans ensures they maintain their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
- Balance the Dressing: The dressing is key to this salad. Aim for a balance of tanginess, sweetness, and a hint of saltiness to complement the vegetables.
- Presentation Matters: Arrange the vegetables and cherry tomatoes artfully in a bowl or platter for a dish that looks as good as it tastes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a finishing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a hearty lentil or chickpea dish. Its light and refreshing nature also make it an excellent companion to richer, creamier dishes, providing a welcome contrast.
Why This Salad is a Seasonal Star
Broccoli, green beans, and cherry tomatoes are often at their peak during late spring and summer, making this salad a seasonal favorite. Using in-season produce not only enhances the flavor but also supports local farmers and is kinder to the environment. That said, this salad can easily be enjoyed year-round with fresh or even frozen vegetables.
A Feast for the Eyes and Palate
The vibrant green of the broccoli and beans, coupled with the bright red of the cherry tomatoes, makes this salad a feast for the eyes. Its stunning presentation will have your guests reaching for seconds before they’ve even had their first bite. It’s proof that healthy eating can be both beautiful and delicious.
Conclusion
The Broccoli and Green Bean Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a culinary masterpiece that proves simplicity can be sensational. It’s a dish that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh, wholesome ingredients while offering versatility, nutrition, and visual appeal. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family meal or a special occasion, this salad is sure to impress and delight.
Take a bite of this light, refreshing salad and experience the joy of clean, vibrant flavors. Its simplicity allows each ingredient to shine, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to add more fresh vegetables to their diet. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!