Creamy Chicken Vegetable Soup

There’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of creamy chicken vegetable soup, especially as the weather starts to cool. It brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy base. What makes this soup special is its creaminess, achieved without any milk or cream!

With the addition of vermicelli, a star in the traditional Lebanese rice pilaf, each spoonful is hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to meal prep for the week, this soup should be on your list. It’s packed with protein, and full of flavor. Other great soups to try are Turkish Red Lentil Soup, Butternut Squash Soup, and Chicken Orzo Soup.

Key Ingredients

Olive Oil adds a rich flavor base to the soup, helping the vegetables cook evenly and develop a subtle caramelization.

Onion brings sweetness and depth to the broth, softening as it sautés and infusing the soup with comforting flavor.

Garlic infuses the soup with a savory aroma and a mild warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Carrot adds natural sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the savory elements with its earthy flavor.

Red Bell Pepper introduces a vibrant color and a mild sweetness, complementing the other vegetables with a subtle pop of flavor.

Oregano adds a touch of Mediterranean flair, giving the soup an aromatic, earthy depth.

Salt and Pepper season the soup, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients and adding a balanced savory kick.

All-Purpose Flour thickens the broth, creating a creamy texture without the need for dairy.

Vermicelli adds a unique, comforting texture, similar to traditional Lebanese rice, while absorbing the flavors of the broth.

Chicken Broth forms the foundation of the soup, providing a savory base that ties all the ingredients together.

Chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Parsley adds freshness and a pop of color, with a mildly peppery flavor that brightens up the soup just before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight: Vermicelli

Vermicelli is a thin, delicate pasta that sets this creamy chicken vegetable soup apart from other traditional soups. Its fine texture allows it to absorb the savory broth, making each bite flavorful and comforting.

How to Prepare
In this soup, the vermicelli is added towards the end of cooking. After the vegetables have softened and the broth has simmered, you’ll want to add the vermicelli and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This timing ensures the pasta becomes tender without overcooking or losing its structure. Since vermicelli is thinner than regular pasta, it cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to maintain the perfect texture.

Essential Tips:

• Don’t Overcook: Because vermicelli cooks quickly, add it towards the end of the cooking process. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
• Flavor Boost: If you want to enhance the flavor even more, lightly toast the vermicelli in a bit of olive oil before adding it to the soup. This gives the pasta a nutty flavor and adds a golden color.
• Versatility: While vermicelli is the star here, you can substitute it with other thin pasta like angel hair or fine egg noodles if needed, though vermicelli’s unique texture and flavor really elevate this dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Poach the Chicken

First, place 1 chicken breast in a pot of water with peppercorns, bay leaves, and a halved onion. Bring to a simmer and cook the chicken until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Next, remove the chicken, shred it with forks or whatever utensil you prefer, and set aside. Be sure to save the broth from poaching to add to the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Now, in a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion and cook for a few minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic cloves and cook for a minute.

Next, add the bell pepper and carrots. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a slight caramelization.

Step 3: Incorporate the Spices and Flour

Next, add in the oregano, salt, and pepper to the vegetables.

Add the all-purpose flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. This will help thicken the soup.

Now pour in 6 cups of the reserved chicken broth or water. Make sure to stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Allow the soup to cook for about 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Vermicelli

Add the vermicelli to the simmering soup. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the vermicelli becomes tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Add the Shredded Chicken

Once the vermicelli is almost cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot.

Stir well and cook for an additional 10 minutes to let the chicken warm through and absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Just before serving, stir in the chopped parsley. This will add a fresh, herbaceous finish to the soup. If desired, finish with some freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Then, ladle the creamy chicken vegetable soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with your favorite bread or on its own for a hearty, comforting meal.

Variations and Substitutes

1. Protein Variations:

• Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a can of chickpeas or white beans for protein and texture.

2. Vegetable Variations:

• Zucchini or Celery: Add diced zucchini or celery for extra crunch and a mild, fresh flavor that complements the other vegetables.
• Mushrooms: For a deeper, earthier flavor, add sliced mushrooms. They also add a meaty texture to the soup, making it more filling.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of green color.

3. Noodle Substitutes:

• Swap Vermicelli with Orzo or Small Pasta: If you don’t have vermicelli on hand, orzo or another small pasta like ditalini or farfalle can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Rice Instead of Pasta: For a gluten-free option, substitute the vermicelli with cooked rice. Add it towards the end of cooking to warm it through without overcooking.

4. Flavor Boosters:

• Spices: For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs: Try adding fresh dill or cilantro instead of parsley for a different herbal finish. These herbs pair well with the flavors in the soup.

5. Broth Variations:

• Bone Broth: For added nutrition and depth of flavor, use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth. It’s rich in nutrients and adds a more robust flavor to the soup.
• Vegetable Broth: If you’re making a vegetarian version, opt for a high-quality vegetable broth. You can also enhance it with a splash of soy sauce or tamari for added umami.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Vegetable Soup

1. Refrigerating:

• Cool Completely: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation, which can make the soup watery.
• Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.
• Refrigerate: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors may deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

2. Freezing:

• Portion It Out: If you plan to freeze the soup, portion it out into individual servings. This makes reheating easier and more convenient.
• Leave Room for Expansion: When freezing, make sure to leave some space at the top of your containers, as the soup will expand as it freezes.
• Label and Date: Label your containers with the date you made the soup. Frozen soup can be stored for up to 3 months.

3. Reheating:

• Stovetop Method: For the best texture, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.
• Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on medium power in 1-2 minute increments, stirring in between, until fully heated.
• Adjust the Texture: If the vermicelli has absorbed too much liquid, feel free to add a bit more broth or water to loosen the soup. Stir well before serving.