Chicken corn soup is a classic comfort food, loved for its creamy texture and delightful blend of sweet corn and savory chicken. But finding the best recipe can be tricky. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor and texture, creating a soup that's both satisfying and unforgettable. We’ll even address some common questions people have about this beloved dish.
What Makes This Chicken Corn Soup Recipe the Best?
This recipe isn't just about throwing ingredients together; it's about building layers of flavor. We start with a flavorful chicken broth, then roast the corn for extra sweetness and depth, and finally, we use a combination of cream and cornstarch to create a luxuriously creamy texture without being overly heavy. The result? A superior chicken corn soup that will become your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole roasting chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn) – roasted for extra flavor!
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Roast the Corn (Optional but Highly Recommended): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Shuck the corn and place the ears directly on the oven rack. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until slightly charred and tender. This step adds a smoky sweetness that elevates the soup. If using frozen corn, skip this step.
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Prepare the Chicken Broth (If Using a Whole Chicken): If using a whole chicken, place it in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly before shredding the meat. Strain the broth and reserve for the soup.
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Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Corn and Broth: Add the roasted corn kernels (or frozen corn) and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
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Simmer and Season: Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for a few minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Stir in Cream and Chicken: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded chicken. Heat through gently – do not boil.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen corn. Just add it to the pot along with the chicken broth and skip the roasting step.
How can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add cooked chickpeas or lentils for protein. For a creamier vegan version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are some variations on this recipe?
You can add other vegetables like diced potatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms. A squeeze of lime juice at the end adds a bright, zesty note. Spicy lovers can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
How do I make the best chicken broth from scratch?
Making your own chicken broth is easy and adds a tremendous depth of flavor. Simply simmer leftover chicken bones, vegetables (like onions, carrots, and celery), and herbs in water for several hours. Strain before using. Many online resources provide detailed instructions.
This detailed recipe, along with the FAQs, provides a comprehensive guide to creating the best chicken corn soup. Enjoy!
