From Recipe Box 40

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup

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About this recipe

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Box 40

Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth for a delicious filling. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with breadsticks or crackers.

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Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup 

FAQ

  • Can I substitute the chicken necks and backs? Yes, you can use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or a combination of bone-in chicken parts for more meat.
  • Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but fresh broccoli provides a better texture. Thaw frozen broccoli first to avoid excess liquid.
  • What is a good dairy-free alternative? Use coconut milk powder or almond milk powder instead of instant nonfat dry milk.

Food History

Soup has been a staple in culinary traditions worldwide for centuries, offering nourishment and warmth. Chicken-based soups date back to ancient times when they were considered both a comfort food and a remedy for illness. Adding cream and vegetables like broccoli to chicken soup became more common in modern cooking, especially as kitchens evolved to include diverse ingredients.

Broccoli, introduced to America in the early 20th century, became a popular addition to soups due to its vibrant flavor and nutritional value. Recipes like Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Soup showcase how soups have grown from simple broths to rich, hearty meals that celebrate a variety of flavors and textures.

Timeline

  • Ancient Times: Chicken soups are enjoyed worldwide for their medicinal and culinary benefits.
  • 1920s: Broccoli gains popularity in American kitchens.
  • 1940s: Creamy soups become common in mid-century American cuisine.
  • Today: Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Soup is a beloved comfort food.

Recipe Discussion

This recipe builds layers of flavor by first simmering chicken necks and backs with aromatic vegetables to create a flavorful broth. The strained broth serves as the base for this creamy soup, enriched with a mixture of milk powder and a touch of curry powder for warmth and depth. Fresh broccoli and carrots add texture and color, making this soup as nutritious as it is delicious.

The smoothness of the soup comes from flour thickened with water, creating a rich and creamy consistency. The curry powder adds a subtle kick, balancing the carrots’ sweetness and broccoli’s earthy taste. With its velvety texture and hearty ingredients, this soup is satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.

Preparation Tips

  • Use bone-in chicken parts for the richest broth. Chicken thighs or drumsticks work well.
  • Chop the broccoli and carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • Stir the flour mixture into the broth gradually to prevent lumps.
  • Avoid boiling the milk mixture to maintain the creamy consistency.
  • For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme while simmering the chicken.
  • Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Recommended Kitchen Products

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  • Large Stockpot: Essential for simmering the chicken and vegetables to create a flavorful broth.
  • Fine-Mesh Strainer: Helps strain the broth, ensuring a smooth base for your soup.
  • Soup Ladle: Perfect for serving this hearty soup.
  • Vegetable Chopper: Makes prepping broccoli and carrots quick and easy.
  • Whisk: Helps mix the flour and water smoothly to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with buttery breadsticks for dipping.
  • Add a side of cheesy garlic toast for extra indulgence.
  • Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter option.
  • Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
  • Enjoy with crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy broth.

Warm Up With This Classic Soup

Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Soup is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the table. Whether served as a starter or the main dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or special family meals with fresh broccoli, tender chicken, and a creamy base. Pair it with your favorite bread or crackers, and enjoy this hearty soup that’s sure to please.

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Vintage Goodies

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup scaled

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Soup

A rich and hearty Creamy Broccoli-Chicken Soup made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds of chicken necks and backs
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 celery top
  • 2 teaspoons of salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppercorns
  • 6 cups of water
  • 1 1/2 cups coarsely cut up fresh broccoli
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 cup instant nonfat dry milk powder
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Put chicken, onion, celery, salt, peppercorns, and 6 cups of water in large saucepan
  2. Bring to boil, cover, then simmer 1 hour or until chicken is tender
  3. Cool chicken in broth
  4. Strain broth, then return to saucepan and skim fat
  5. Remove chicken from bones; discard skin and bones
  6. Add chicken, broccoli, and carrorts to broth
  7. Cover and simmer 15 minutes or until vegetable are tender
  8. Mix flour and curry powder
  9. Stir in 1/3 cup of water to make a smooth paste
  10. Gradually stir into broth.
  11. Cook and stir until boiling; reduce heat.
  12. Cook and stir 10 minutes
  13. Mix milk powder with 1 cup of water
  14. Stir into soup and heat through ( do not boil ).
  15. Taste and adjust salt if necessary and add pepper.

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