1. Cook the Chicken:
- Boil Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken breasts and cover with water. Bring to a boil and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Remove the chicken, let it cool, and then shred it with forks.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
- Prepare the Base: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
- Cook Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Return Chicken and Add Cream:
- Combine Ingredients: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Thicken the Soup:
- Make a Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering soup, stirring constantly until the soup thickens, about 5 minutes.
6. Add Optional Ingredients:
- Add Extra Vegetables: If using corn, peas, and mushrooms, add them to the pot and let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
7. Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
- Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Alternative: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or precooked chicken to save time. Simply skip the boiling step and add the shredded chicken directly to the pot.
- Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, although the soup will be less rich.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand. Leeks, turnips, and sweet potatoes are great additions.
This creamy chicken soup with vegetables is not only a comforting meal but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a hearty fall dinner. Enjoy this delicious, warming soup with your family on any chilly evening!