Creamy Chicken Soup with Caramelized Onions is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, rich creaminess, and sweet, caramelized onions. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or to warm you up on a chilly day. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
- For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance caramelization)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. If desired, sprinkle in the sugar halfway through to help the caramelization process.
- Once caramelized, remove the onions from the heat and set them aside.
2. Make the Soup Base:
- In the same pot, add the tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken to the broth, followed by the heavy cream, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine.
- Return the caramelized onions to the pot and mix everything together.
- Simmer the soup for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
- Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips:
- Make it Healthier: You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, but the soup will be less creamy.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach.
- Use Leftovers: This soup is a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken.
Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Soup with Caramelized Onions—it’s a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you up and satisfy your cravings!