Chicken soup is one of those timeless, soul-warming dishes that brings comfort on a cold day or whenever you need a pick-me-up. But let’s take it a step further. Instead of a runny broth-based soup, we’re talking about a chicken soup that’s hearty, thick, and incredibly rich in flavor. Imagine a velvety texture that coats the spoon, chunks of tender chicken, and vegetables that melt in your mouth. This recipe is perfect for those who prefer a more substantial soup to fill them up and satisfy their cravings.
Chicken Soup Thick Recipe
This thickened chicken soup uses simple ingredients, but the key lies in the way you combine them. The use of flour or cornstarch, along with simmering for the right amount of time, results in a silky-smooth soup that has a satisfying consistency without being too heavy. The creamy texture makes it feel indulgent, yet it’s balanced enough for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with loved ones.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s go over everything you’ll need to create this deliciously thick chicken soup.
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Chicken Breast or Thighs (about 2 cups, shredded)
- Chicken thighs will add extra richness and flavor due to their higher fat content. However, chicken breast can be used for a leaner option.
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Carrots (2 medium, diced)
- Adds natural sweetness and a bit of crunch to the soup.
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Celery (2 stalks, chopped)
- Celery brings a mild, earthy flavor and a nice texture contrast.
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Onion (1 large, chopped)
- A classic base for almost every soup, giving depth and a savory foundation.
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Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Garlic is essential for flavor depth, adding aromatic and savory notes to the soup.
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Chicken Broth (4 cups)
- Use a good-quality, low-sodium broth to control the salt content and allow the other flavors to shine.
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Whole Milk or Heavy Cream (1 cup)
- This is the secret to making the soup rich and creamy. You can adjust the amount depending on how creamy you want the soup to be.
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Flour or Cornstarch (3 tablespoons)
- The thickening agent. Cornstarch is a great choice for a smoother finish, while flour will give a slightly denser texture.
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Bay Leaves (2)
- Bay leaves add a subtle but complex flavor, which enhances the overall taste.
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Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried or fresh)
- Thyme gives the soup an herbal undertone that pairs beautifully with the chicken and vegetables.
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Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Essential for seasoning and adjusting the flavor balance.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get into the actual process of cooking this thick chicken soup. Follow these steps for a rich, comforting bowl of deliciousness:
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Cook The Chicken
- If you’re using raw chicken breasts or thighs, season them with salt and pepper and sauté them in a large pot with some oil over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add a little more oil (or butter if you prefer) and sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery over medium heat for about 5 minutes. You want the onions to soften and become translucent, and the other veggies to release their flavors.
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Make The Base
- Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch) over the veggies and stir well to coat them. This will help thicken the soup later. Cook for 2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste.
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Add The Broth
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the bay leaves and thyme. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Add The Chicken And Cream
- Stir in the shredded chicken and the cream or milk. Allow the soup to return to a simmer and cook for another 5-10 minutes. The flour will have thickened the soup by this point, and the cream will add richness and body.
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Season And Finish
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Discard the bay leaves before serving.
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Serve Hot
- Ladle the thick, creamy chicken soup into bowls. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, croutons, or grated cheese, depending on your preference.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to perfecting the recipe:
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: While breasts are leaner and more neutral, thighs add more flavor, making your soup richer. Thighs also stay tender longer when simmered, preventing the chicken from becoming dry.
- Flour vs. Cornstarch: Both ingredients work to thicken the soup, but cornstarch results in a smoother texture, while flour may give it a more hearty, rustic feel.
- Cream or Milk: Using cream gives a luxurious, velvety finish, while milk is lighter and more casual. It’s your choice depending on how indulgent you want to get!
Expert Tips
To make this soup even better, consider these tips from the pros:
- Searing the Chicken: Don’t skip browning the chicken in the beginning. It adds depth of flavor that you can’t get from just boiling it.
- Cook on Low Heat: When adding the cream or milk, lower the heat to prevent curdling. The soup should simmer gently to keep everything smooth.
- Make it Ahead: Soups often taste even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Make a large batch and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Add a Thickening Touch: If the soup doesn’t thicken to your liking, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water, then stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for a few more minutes.
Recipe Variations
Why not change things up a bit? Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth along with beans (like white beans or chickpeas) for protein. Add a variety of root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or parsnips for extra heartiness.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a couple of chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili flakes for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy sausage for extra flavor.
- Noodle Soup: For a classic chicken noodle soup twist, add egg noodles or pasta towards the end of the cooking process. They will absorb the broth and thicken it even more.
- Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh rosemary, parsley, or even a hint of sage to give the soup a more aromatic, earthy depth.
Final Words
Thick chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, and with the right ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to make at home. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy a perfect blend of creamy texture, savory chicken, and tender vegetables. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that lets you get creative. Whether you prefer it richer, lighter, or with a spicy kick, you can adjust it to suit your taste.