Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals
I can’t get enough of this Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup; it’s my go-to comfort food on chilly evenings. The combination of tender chicken and sweet corn in a savory broth always warms me from the inside out. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a truly satisfying experience. This soup has become a family favorite that I love making again and again!
While experimenting with various soups, I stumbled upon an amazing combination that has now become my favorite: chicken and corn. The sweetness of the corn perfectly balances the savory chicken, creating a deliciously comforting bowl that's perfect for any occasion. My secret is to use fresh corn when it’s in season; it adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You can have it ready in under 45 minutes! Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish, enhancing the flavors in a way that keeps you coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will be on your regular rotation!
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Heartwarming flavors that remind you of home
- Quick and easy prep for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices
Mastering the Base
The foundation of any great soup lies in the aromatics, and for this Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup, the combination of onion and garlic creates a fragrant base. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent to release its sweetness, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also builds that comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Ensure you stir frequently during this process to prevent the garlic from burning. If it does burn, it can impart a bitter taste that will affect the overall flavor of your soup. If time is tight, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which saves preparation time and still yields a richly flavored broth.
Balancing Flavors
Adding the chicken broth elevates this dish significantly, providing the liquid body that carries the flavors. You can use homemade chicken broth for the best taste, but pre-packaged varieties work equally well if you choose low-sodium options to control the saltiness of your soup. Don't forget that the broth will concentrate as it simmers, so starting with a milder flavor can help achieve a balanced end result.
After simmering for about 20 minutes, taste-test the broth before adding seasonings. This is the perfect moment to adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice. A splash of lemon juice brightens up the soup beautifully, enhancing the sweetness of the corn without overpowering it. Adjust according to your preference, and don't be afraid to play with the ratios to match your taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Soup
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Enjoy your delicious soup!
Instructions
Instructions:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Chicken and Corn
Stir in the shredded chicken and sweet corn. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
Pour in Broth
Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Season and Serve
Stir in salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Enjoy your warm and hearty soup!
Pro Tips
- For a creamier texture, consider blending half of the soup and then stirring it back in. You can also add different vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
Make-Ahead Tips
This soup is an ideal candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it up to two days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delectable. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup, especially if it thickens after cooling.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. Place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, as liquids swell when frozen. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight will ensure it retains its texture and flavor.
Customizing Your Soup
Feel free to personalize this Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup with your favorite herbs and spices. Fresh thyme or rosemary can introduce a delightful aromatic note, while a pinch of cayenne or paprika can add a hint of warmth. Experimenting with ingredients can turn this into a versatile recipe that you can adjust to suit your mood.
If you're looking to make this dish heartier, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots along with the chicken and corn. They not only enhance the nutrition value but also add interesting textures. For a creamier version, a splash of cream or coconut milk stirred in at the end will provide richness that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.
→ How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Simply omit any cream or milk and focus on the broth and veggies.
→ What can I serve with the soup?
Serve it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even in bread bowls!
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.
Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
I can’t get enough of this Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup; it’s my go-to comfort food on chilly evenings. The combination of tender chicken and sweet corn in a savory broth always warms me from the inside out. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a truly satisfying experience. This soup has become a family favorite that I love making again and again!
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken and sweet corn. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Stir in salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Extra Tips
- For a creamier texture, consider blending half of the soup and then stirring it back in. You can also add different vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g