Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further! This Bird-in-Hand Chicken Corn Soup recipe is your answer. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a cozy weekend meal. This homemade cooking masterpiece blends the sweetness of corn with the savory richness of chicken, creating a truly delightful and healthy meal. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every spoonful!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Add the broth and corn: Pour in the chicken broth and add the frozen corn. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the corn to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Incorporate the chicken and cream: Stir in the shredded chicken, heavy cream (or coconut milk), thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully combine. Don't boil at this stage, as it can curdle the cream.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delightful taste of your homemade Bird-in-Hand Chicken Corn Soup!
Tips for the Best Bird-in-Hand Chicken Corn Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Sauté the vegetables for a longer time to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some texture: Include some diced potatoes or cooked barley for a heartier soup.
- Make it creamy: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cream.
Variations:
- Spicy Bird-in-Hand: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Bird-in-Hand: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Creamy Tomato Bird-in-Hand: Add a can of diced tomatoes along with the corn for a vibrant twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious and easy recipe makes for a perfect healthy meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this delightful Bird-in-Hand Chicken Corn Soup!