Is there anything more heartwarming than a pot pie? Picture this: Tender chunks of chicken, mixed with vibrant veggies, nestled in a creamy broth. Potbelly took this classic comfort food, and with a twist of genius, turned it into a soup. The Potbelly Chicken Pot Pie Soup is an embodiment of homely warmth and comfort in a bowl.
Soup has an illustrious history, spanning cultures and centuries. From ancient civilizations to modern kitchens, soup has been the heart of many meals. Pot pies have a similarly rich heritage, especially in American cuisine. They have been the hero of many dinner tables, especially on cold winter nights. Potbelly, with its innovative approach to traditional foods, combined the best of both worlds, presenting us with the Chicken Pot Pie Soup.
The inspiration for the Potbelly rendition might lie in the age-old practice of turning leftover pot pie fillings into a stew or soup. The result? A flavorful concoction that pays tribute to its origins while delighting modern palates.
Ingredients You Need to Make Potbelly Chicken Pot Pie Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Ideal if home-cooked and shredded, but store-bought rotisserie works too |
| Mixed Vegetables | Peas, carrots, and corn lend color and nutrition. |
| Onion and Garlic | The aromatics that form the base of any soulful soup. |
| Butter | For richness. |
| All-Purpose Flour | It’s the thickener, giving the soup its characteristic pot pie consistency |
| Chicken Broth | Opt for low-sodium. We can always add salt, but taking it out? That’s tricky |
| Heavy Cream | The ingredient that turns the soup from great to luxurious. |
| Seasonings | Thyme, rosemary, or even a touch of sage can elevate the flavors |
| Pie crust strips | These are the game-changer. Toasted and crumbled, they provide the pot pie feel without the hassle of a crust |
Tools You’ll Need to Make This Hearty Soup
- A Good Quality Pot: Because the soup deserves the best.
- A Wooden Spoon: It’s not just for nostalgia; wood doesn’t heat up like metal, making stirring safer.
- A Sturdy Ladle: For serving.
How to Prepare Potbelly Chicken Pot Pie Soup: Step-By-Step Guide
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and celery. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the celery softens.
2. Add Vegetables:
Incorporate the carrots, peas, and corn to the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Form the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, ensuring they get a good coating. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps thicken the soup later.
4. Pour the Broth:
Slowly add in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
5. Season:
Add salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Give it a good stir.
6. Add Chicken:
Incorporate the diced chicken into the pot. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures everything is cooked through.
7. Finish with Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream or milk and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls. If you want to mimic the Potbelly experience, garnish with pie crust crumbles. This gives an added texture and makes it reminiscent of a classic chicken pot pie.
Tips on Serving the Potbelly Chicken Pot Pie Soup
- Ideal Temperature: Serve the soup hot, but not boiling. Let it sit for a couple of minutes after cooking before ladling it into bowls.
- Complementary Sides: Pair the soup with rustic, crusty bread or buttery biscuits to soak up every last bit. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the creamy richness of the soup.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds color but also a hint of freshness. For an added kick, consider a dash of black pepper or red chili flakes.
Why You’ll Love This Potbelly Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe?
It’s the embodiment of comfort. It’s not just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. Each spoonful is creamy, rich, and brimming with flavor. It reminds you of childhood, of simpler times, of moments shared with family over dinner.
Conclusion
With this recipe, you’re not just making soup; you’re recreating a Potbelly experience. It’s a connection to a legacy of comfort foods and an ode to the humble pot pie. So, the next time the skies are gray and there’s a chill in the air, remember, your pot of warmth is just a recipe away.