This creamy chicken soup is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for chilly days or family dinners. Bursting with tender chicken, vegetables, and a velvety sauce, it’s simple to make in your slow cooker and allows flavors to meld beautifully. The combination of fresh herbs, creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for meal prep or cozy nights in. Using easy pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality soup at home that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Recipe Origin & Story

Creamy chicken soup is a staple of American home cooking, often passed down through generations as a comfort food classic. Traditionally made with slow-cooked chicken and fresh vegetables, this version adapts the technique to a modern slow cooker method. The dish reflects the essence of classic family dinners, where simplicity and heartwarming flavors matter most. Combining hearty vegetables with creamy sauce and tender shredded chicken ensures a balanced and satisfying meal. Its roots come from classic European soups that relied on dairy and fresh herbs to elevate simple ingredients into rich, flavorful dishes.

Ingredient Benefits & How They Work

Chicken breasts provide lean protein, essential for building and repairing muscles while keeping the soup light. Carrots, celery, and onions form the traditional mirepoix, contributing natural sweetness and depth to the broth. Garlic and herbs like thyme and parsley add aromatic flavor and offer immune-boosting properties. Flour and butter create a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it a creamy texture, while heavy cream enriches the flavor and smoothness. Frozen peas and corn add subtle sweetness, texture, and vibrant color, making the dish appealing both visually and nutritionally.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy chicken soup is incredibly versatile, perfect for lunches, dinners, or even meal prepping for the week. Its creamy texture, tender chicken, and well-seasoned vegetables make every spoonful satisfying. The slow cooker method allows flavors to develop fully without constant supervision, making it easy for busy schedules. It’s comforting, hearty, and kid-friendly, while also being customizable: add noodles or rice for extra substance or adjust herbs and spices to taste. Ideal for cold weather, family meals, or a cozy night at home, this soup is a timeless favorite you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken & Vegetables

Place chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.

Step 2: Shred Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the vegetables.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly. Slowly whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker, stirring to combine and thicken the soup.

Recipe Timing & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3–7 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 7 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal (estimate)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add extra cream if needed to restore creaminess.

Can I freeze this creamy chicken soup?

Yes, but omit the cream when freezing. Add the cream after reheating to maintain texture.

Can I add noodles or rice?

Yes. Cook noodles or rice separately and add just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.