Introduction to Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
If you’re a young professional juggling a hectic schedule, creamy soups like this Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup can be a game changer. They not only provide warmth and comfort but are also incredibly satisfying and nourishing. With a rich base and a delightful blend of flavors, this soup makes a perfect meal for those chilly nights when you don’t have time to cook a full dinner.
Here’s why creamy soups are ideal for busy lifestyles:
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Quick to Prepare: Most creamy soups come together in about 30 minutes, allowing you to whip up something hearty without sacrificing your precious time.
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Versatile Ingredients: This recipe calls for beloved comfort food staples like turkey bacon, chicken, and mini potato pierogies, ensuring you’re using ingredients that resonate with home-cooked meals.
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Meal Prep Friendly: You can make a big batch and store leftovers for easy reheating during the week—perfect for lunch breaks or quick dinners after a long day.
So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of creamy pierogi chicken soup! It’s sure to become a staple in your weekly recipe rotation, bringing a bit of joy to your busy life. For more creamy soup ideas, check out this resource.
Ingredients for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
Essential Ingredients List
To make this delicious Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 slices Turkey Bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 6 carrots, chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken or bone broth
- 2 chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 cups chopped kale
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or whole milk
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- 28 fresh or frozen mini potato pierogies (1 package)
Tips for Sourcing Fresh Ingredients
When sourcing your ingredients for this hearty soup, prioritize freshness to elevate the flavors. Visit local farmers' markets for seasonal vegetables, or check out grocery stores that emphasize quality. Look for fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme; they can make a significant difference in taste. If possible, try to buy organic chicken to ensure you're using the best for your health and flavor. Online grocery services like Instacart can also help you find the freshest produce without the hassle. And don’t forget to keep things fun—take a weekend trip to explore agricultural art in your area while gathering your ingredients!
Step-by-step preparation of Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
Creating a bowl of creamy pierogi chicken soup is not just a cooking experience; it's a warm, comforting journey that transforms your kitchen into a haven of delightful aromas. Let’s walk through the process step by step, ensuring every mouthful is as delicious as it sounds!
Cook the Turkey Bacon
Start by crisping up the turkey bacon in a large pot over medium heat—this typically takes about 5 minutes. As the bacon cooks, it releases its savory oils, which will flavor your soup beautifully. When it’s just about done, toss in some fresh chopped rosemary. The scent is enchanting! Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pot, but leave about 1 tablespoon of grease behind. Trust me, this adds depth to your soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
Next, it’s time to get colorful with your vegetables. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to the pot, and introduce your chopped yellow onion, six chopped carrots, four chopped celery stalks, and two cloves of minced garlic. Season this mixture with cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook it for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. The base is crucial, and this aromatic blend is where the creamy pierogi chicken soup begins.
Prepare the Soup Base
Once your veggies are softened, stir in 2 tablespoons of salted butter along with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This roux helps thicken the soup, giving it that creamy texture we all love. Cook this mixture for about a minute, then pour in 6 cups of chicken or bone broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before adding the chicken—either thighs or breasts work wonderfully here.
Add Chicken and Simmer
Add the chicken to your pot and let it work its magic! Simmer for 20 minutes on medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked through. If you want to prolong the flavor even more, feel free to let it simmer on low for an additional 4-6 hours. You can check out this guide on the benefits of slow cooking if you're intrigued!
Incorporate Pierogies and Finish
Now, let’s finish off this creamy pierogi chicken soup! Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in three cups of chopped kale, along with 1.5 cups of heavy cream or whole milk and ½ cup of grated cheddar cheese. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then add in a package of mini potato pierogies. Allow them to cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they float.
Serve your warm, hearty soup topped with the crispy turkey bacon and perhaps a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy every cozy spoonful, ideally with a crusty piece of bread. There’s something special about making and sharing a comforting dish like this, and I hope you find it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!
Variations on Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
Gluten-free options
If you’re looking to enjoy a creamy pierogi chicken soup without gluten, no worries! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, which you can easily find in stores. Additionally, ensure your chicken broth and pierogies are certified gluten-free. This way, you can savor every spoonful without a second thought!
Vegetarian twist
Want to make this rich and hearty soup vegetarian? You can replace the chicken with a medley of hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even some chickpeas for added protein. For the broth, use a flavorful vegetable broth. And instead of turkey bacon, consider using smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms to maintain that umami kick. Your creamy pierogi chicken soup will still bring all the comfort!
Cooking tips and notes for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
Handling flavors and seasonings
When crafting your creamy pierogi chicken soup, it’s crucial to find the right balance of flavors. Don’t shy away from seasoning generously—add salt and pepper during different stages of cooking to build depth. If you love a hint of spice, cayenne pepper is your friend; just remember to start with a little and adjust according to your heat preference.
Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are key to enhancing the soup’s richness. If using dried, remember that they are more potent, so reduce the amount. Finally, for extra creaminess, consider adding a swirl of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving; it can elevate the taste wonderfully. Happy cooking!
Serving suggestions for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
When you make Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup, the possibilities for delightful pairings are endless! Here are some fantastic complementary sides to elevate your meal:
Complementary sides and pairings
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Crusty Bread: Slice up a warm, crusty artisan bread or sourdough to soak up that rich, creamy broth. Perfect for dipping!
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Salad: Enhance your meal with a fresh, crisp side salad. A light vinaigrette with mixed greens adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
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Pickled Veggies: Consider serving a small bowl of pickled cucumbers or beets. Their tanginess will balance the soup's creaminess.
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Herb Butter: Whip up a quick herb butter using soft butter mixed with fresh herbs to spread on your bread.
These additions not only amplify the flavors but also create a cozy dining experience that’s ideal for any night of the week! For further inspiration, check out this resource on pairing soups with sides.
Time Breakdown for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
Preparation Time
Begin your journey with this creamy pierogi chicken soup by budgeting about 15 minutes for preparation. During this time, gather and chop your vegetables, and ensure your chicken is ready to go. Pro tip: Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, the cooking will take approximately 35-40 minutes. This includes cooking the turkey bacon, sautéing the vegetables, simmering the chicken and broth, and allowing those delightful pierogies to cook through. Trust me, the aroma will have everyone in your kitchen eager to taste!
Total Time
In total, expect to spend about 55-60 minutes from start to finish. That’s a small investment for a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, having leftovers means you can enjoy your creamy pierogi chicken soup even after a long day at work!
For more kitchen tips, check out The Kitchn for expert advice on meal prep and cooking techniques that can enhance your culinary skills!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
If you're curious about the nutritional profile of this Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup, here’s a quick rundown of its key components to help you make informed choices.
Calories
This hearty soup packs approximately 350 calories per serving, making it a satisfying option for anyone looking for comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Protein
With around 25 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for post-workout recovery or as a protein-packed meal to keep you feeling full and energized throughout your busy day.
Sodium
While comforting, it’s good to be mindful of sodium too. Each serving contains about 800 mg of sodium, so consider balancing it with lower-sodium ingredients elsewhere in your day.
This Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup is not just delicious—it’s also a nutritious meal that combines comfort with health benefits, making it perfect for young professionals looking for quick and delightful meals. If you’re interested in learning more about nutrition, check out Nutrition.gov for research-backed resources.
FAQs about Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can enjoy it later by thawing it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheating it on the stove.
What are the best sides to serve with it?
Pairing this hearty soup with a few sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
- A fresh side salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a zesty contrast.
- Roasted vegetables to add a colorful touch to your plate.
How can I adjust the creaminess level?
If you’re looking to tweak the creaminess of your creamy pierogi chicken soup, start by adjusting the amount of heavy cream or whole milk you add. For a lighter option, substitute some cream with low-fat milk or broth. Additionally, blending a portion of the soup can give it a creamy texture without increasing the dairy content too much.
Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect balance!
Conclusion on Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup
In wrapping up our journey into the delightful world of creamy pierogi chicken soup, it’s clear that this dish is a game changer for cozy nights. With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo. So grab your ingredients and transform those chilly evenings into something warm and heartwarming!
Creamy Pierogi Chicken Soup with Rosemary Bacon Bits
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
Bacon and Aromatics
- 6 slices thick cut bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- kosher salt and black pepper
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken or bone broth
- 2 pieces chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or whole milk
Vegetables and Cheeses
- 3 cups chopped kale
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- 28 pieces fresh or frozen mini potato pierogies (1 package)
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. During the last minute of cooking, add the rosemary. Remove the bacon from the pot. If there's excess bacon grease, drain off all but 1 tablespoon.
- To the pot, add the olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and thyme. Season with cayenne, salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the butter and flour, cook for 1 minute. Add the broth. Stir in the chicken. Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. At this point, the soup can simmer on low for up to 4-6 hours.
- Shred the chicken using 2 forks. Stir in the kale, cream/milk, and the cheddar. Bring to a gentle boil and stir in the pierogies. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pierogies float. If the soup is too thick, add additional broth.
- Serve the soup topped with the rosemary bacon and parmesan cheese. Enjoy warm…preferably with a crusty piece of bread.
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