Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Base: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Incorporate the Cream Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth. This may take a few minutes.
- Add Chicken and Cream: Stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream. Heat through, but do not boil.
- Simmer and Thicken: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the soup thicken slightly. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a very small amount of xanthan gum (about 1/8 teaspoon) mixed with a tablespoon of olive oil, stirring constantly until dissolved.
- Garnish and Serve: Stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
For best results, use low-sodium chicken broth and fully softened cream cheese. Pre-cook the chicken for optimal flavor and texture. Do not boil the soup after adding the heavy cream to prevent curdling. Optional add-ins include cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sautéed mushrooms, or diced avocado.
