Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of Chicken Almond Cream Soup, where tender shreds of chicken mingle with the rich, velvety cream and the delightful crunch of toasted almonds. This American classic is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that will leave you and your loved ones craving more! With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up this delectable dish in under an hour. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a pick-me-up, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this creamy, nutty delight!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Toast the slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Set aside approximately 2 tablespoons for garnish.
- Add chicken broth to the pot with onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, most of the toasted almonds, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow flavors to integrate.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent separation. Allow the soup to heat through without boiling, which could cause the cream to curdle.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to preference.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with the reserved toasted almonds on top.
- Serve hot, optionally with a side of crusty bread or croutons for added texture.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, shred your chicken and chop the onions and garlic in advance. You can even toast the almonds ahead of time to enhance their flavor.
- Choose the Right Chicken: Using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but adds a depth of flavor to your soup.
- Don’t Rush the Toasting: When toasting the almonds, keep a close eye on them. They can go from golden to burnt in a matter of seconds, so stir constantly and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re fragrant and golden.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic, letting it reduce before adding the chicken broth.
- Garnish Creatively: Besides toasted almonds, try garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Style: Pair your soup with crusty bread, croutons, or even a light salad for a complete meal that will impress your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 130mg
