Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your premier destination for culinary inspiration and wholesome meals. Today, we delve into a comforting and nourishing classic: Broccoli Chicken Soup. This recipe embodies the perfect blend of creamy textures, savory flavors, and wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you crave a warm bowl of goodness. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity—utilizing pantry staples like cream of broccoli soup and everyday fresh vegetables, combined with tender chicken, to create a hearty yet light dish that satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.

This soup, crafted for efficiency and flavor, takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it suitable for those hectic days when time is limited but quality cannot be compromised. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be accessible while delivering restaurant-quality comfort in every spoonful. The versatility of this dish allows for numerous variations and add-ons, enabling customization to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. As you prepare this soup, you’ll appreciate how each ingredient contributes to a harmonious, wholesome meal that can be enjoyed by the entire family or for a solo cozy lunch.

Let’s explore this delightful recipe in detail, including all the necessary equipment, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and nutritional insights, ensuring your cooking experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Remember, all recipes on Love With Recipes are crafted with love and attention to detail, aiming to bring joy and nourishment to your table.

Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: To comfortably hold all ingredients and allow even heat distribution for simmering.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurement of liquids and seasonings.
• Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and preparing chicken.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: To dice carrots, chop broccoli, and slice mushrooms with precision.
• Colander or Strainer: For draining cooked pasta.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the soup and preventing ingredients from sticking.
• Measuring Jug or Small Bowl: To measure out additional liquids or to hold ingredients temporarily.
• Optional: Ladle for serving, graters if adding cheese, and kitchen tongs for handling hot pasta.

Tags

• Soup
• Chicken
• Vegetable
• Healthy
• Quick & Easy
• Comfort Food
• Low Cholesterol
• Weeknight Meal

Serving Size

Each serving approximately 1.5 cups, with the recipe yielding 4 hearty portions suitable for a family meal or meal prep.

Difficulty Level

Beginner to Intermediate: This recipe involves basic cooking techniques such as boiling, stirring, and simmering, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Allergen Information

• Contains Dairy: Cream of broccoli soup (may contain milk or cheese)
• Contains Gluten: Pasta (unless gluten-free pasta is used)
• Contains Chicken: Suitable for those who consume poultry

For those with allergies, substitutions such as dairy-free cream soups and gluten-free pasta options are recommended.

Dietary Preference

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and verify cream of broccoli soup ingredients.
• Low Cholesterol: Use lean chicken breast and choose low-fat or dairy-free cream substitutes.
• High Protein: Incorporate additional chicken or plant-based protein sources.

Course

Main Course / Soups & Stews

Cuisine

American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor. Once boiling, pour in the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly using a colander or strainer, then set aside. To prevent the pasta from sticking together, you can toss it with a tiny drizzle of olive oil or rinse with cold water, especially if you’re not adding it immediately to the soup.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

In a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven, pour in the entire can of cream of broccoli soup. Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to stir the soup well, ensuring it is smooth and free of lumps. Heating the soup slowly over medium heat helps to prevent scorching and allows flavors to meld seamlessly. As the soup begins to warm, stir continuously to achieve a uniform, creamy consistency. This step also helps to avoid separation or burning at the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Bring the Soup to a Gentle Boil

Once the cream of broccoli soup is heated through, raise the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is critical as it activates the flavors and begins the cooking process for the added vegetables and chicken. Keep an eye on the pot and stir frequently—this prevents the soup from sticking to the bottom and burning. A gentle boil is ideal: bubbling steadily but not vigorously, which could cause splattering or over-agitation of the ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Chicken

With the soup at a gentle boil, incorporate the prepared vegetables and cooked chicken. Add sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, chopped broccoli, and shredded or diced chicken into the pot. Stir thoroughly to distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the soup. This step allows the flavors to begin to meld, and the vegetables start their cooking process in the creamy base. The mushrooms will release some moisture, enhancing the broth’s richness, while the carrots and broccoli will soften, contributing texture and nutrition.

Step 5: Simmer for Flavor Development

Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for approximately 5 minutes. During this period, the flavors will intensify, and the vegetables will become tender yet retain some bite. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This simmering step is crucial for developing a cohesive flavor profile, as it helps all components to harmonize and infuse the creamy base with their natural tastes.

Step 6: Incorporate the Pasta

Once the vegetables are tender, add the cooked shell pasta to the soup. Use a spoon or tongs to gently fold the pasta into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. The pasta will soak up some of the flavors and add a satisfying texture to each bite. If preparing ahead of time, keep in mind that the pasta can absorb liquid and may become softer; adding a splash of broth or water when reheating can help restore moisture.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serving

Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for about 2-3 minutes. This brief pause allows the soup to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle. Give the soup a final stir to ensure everything is well combined. Ladle the hot, steaming soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or chives if desired. A dash of black pepper can add a subtle spicy kick, but this is optional. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

Preparation Tips

• Use leftovers efficiently: This soup is an excellent way to repurpose leftover cooked chicken and vegetables, making it economical and reducing waste.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal or available vegetables like zucchini, peas, spinach, or bell peppers to boost nutritional content and flavor diversity.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or additional vegetables, and opt for a vegetarian cream of broccoli soup or make your own using fresh broccoli and cream alternatives.
• Adjust thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, thin it out with a bit of chicken broth or water. Conversely, simmer longer to achieve a creamier consistency.
• Enhance flavor: Incorporate garlic or onion powder during the soup base heating stage for extra depth. A splash of lemon juice can brighten flavors at the end.

Nutrition Information

Tips and Tricks

• Batch cooking: Prepare a large batch of this soup to enjoy leftovers throughout the week or to freeze for future meals. It stores well in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Flavor enhancement: Adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of grated cheese just before serving can elevate the flavors and add richness.
• Texture variations: For a creamier consistency, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender and mix back into the pot.
• Use fresh herbs: Garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, chives, or dill adds a burst of freshness and visual appeal.

Add-ons

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella)
• Crumbled cooked bacon for added crunch and flavor
• Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or basil
• Hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat
• Toasted croutons for texture contrast

Side Dishes

• Crusty French bread or garlic bread
• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables or a simple vegetable stir-fry
• Light fruit salad to balance the savory soup

Improvements & Variations

• Homemade cream of broccoli soup: Replace canned soup with a homemade version made by pureeing cooked broccoli, onions, and cream, thickened with a roux or blended potatoes for richness.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy variation.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based cream and broth, and substitute chicken with seasoned tofu or tempeh.
• Cheesier version: Stir in shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese at the end for a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Save & Store

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore the desired consistency. To prevent pasta from becoming overly soft upon reheating, consider adding fresh pasta when serving or cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving.

FAQ

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of canned?

Absolutely. If using fresh broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender, then drain and chop before adding to the soup. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure vegetables are tender.

Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?

The pasta contributes carbohydrates, so for a low-carb version, omit the pasta or substitute with spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles. Additionally, use cauliflower rice or omit grains entirely for a lower-carb option.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute the cream of broccoli soup with a homemade dairy-free version using blended cooked cauliflower or potatoes with plant-based milk or coconut cream. Ensure the soup base is creamy without dairy ingredients.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes. The mild flavors and creamy texture make it appealing to children. You can adjust ingredients, such as reducing salt or spice, to suit younger palates.

Conclusion

In just under half an hour, you can craft a bowl of Broccoli Chicken Soup that embodies comfort, nutrition, and convenience. Its balanced blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy broth creates a satisfying meal perfect for any season or occasion. The flexibility of this recipe allows for endless modifications—whether adding more vegetables, making it vegetarian, or enhancing it with cheese or spices. As part of your weekly meal rotation, this soup offers a wholesome, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing option that nourishes both body and soul. Remember, the key to a great soup lies in quality ingredients, gentle simmering, and a dash of love.

For more delicious recipes like this, visit Love With Recipes, your trusted source for culinary inspiration and wholesome cooking ideas.

References

• Homemade Cream of Broccoli Soup Recipe: SimplyRecipes.com
• Nutrition Data: USDA Food Database