Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that’s also incredibly delicious? Look no further! This creamy broccoli soup with chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, brimming with nutrients, and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. This homemade recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, transforming humble broccoli into a truly satisfying and comforting meal. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Broccoli and Broth
Add the broccoli florets and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Caution: Always vent the blender lid when blending hot liquids to prevent splattering.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Season
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat through gently, but do not boil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Pour the creamy broccoli soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker soup: Add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the soup before blending.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese at the end for a richer, cheesier soup.
- Meal prep friendly: This soup is perfect for meal prepping! Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This creamy broccoli soup with chicken is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and additions to create your perfect bowl of creamy broccoli soup!