Chicken Sausage Soup is a flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken sausage with the freshness of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. The soup is simmered in a rich chicken broth, creating a satisfying and hearty base. It’s often finished with a splash of cream to add richness and smoothness. Seasoned with herbs like thyme and oregano, the soup is both simple to prepare and full of comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for any season, offering warmth in the winter and a light, yet filling meal year-round.
Preparing Chicken Sausage Soup typically takes about 40 minutes. The time can be divided into 10 minutes for prepping the vegetables and sausage, and another 30 minutes for cooking and simmering everything together. This makes it a quick and easy recipe for busy days when you need something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Chicken Sausage Soup is a versatile dish that easily adapts to different tastes. It’s great for anyone who enjoys the blend of savory and creamy flavors. The texture of the sausage combined with the crunch of the vegetables makes every spoonful enjoyable. This soup is easy to customize, adding or substituting ingredients as desired. It’s a reliable choice for a cozy meal, and it consistently brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a family gathering, it’s a recipe that fits various occasions and palates.
Why You’ll Love It Chicken Sausage Soup
- Healthy and Delicious: Chicken sausage soup is a healthy, low-fat option that still delivers rich flavors. The combination of chicken sausage and fresh vegetables makes it a wholesome choice. It’s packed with protein and fiber, which keeps you feeling full longer.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This soup is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can have a hot, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes. It’s an easy recipe for beginners and experts alike.
- Versatile and Customizable: One of the best things about chicken sausage soup is how versatile it is. You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. It’s a great base recipe that can be modified to fit any dietary preference or craving.
Ingredient Notes for a Chicken Sausage Soup
- Chicken Sausage: The star of the dish. Chicken sausage adds rich, savory flavor without being too heavy. It’s a leaner alternative to pork sausage, making the soup lighter yet satisfying.
- Onion: Onion brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup. It also provides a savory base that enhances the overall flavor.
- Carrots: Carrots add a hint of sweetness and a pop of color. They bring texture and nutrients like vitamin A to the soup.
- Celery Stalks: Celery gives the soup a mild, fresh flavor and a nice crunch. It complements the carrots and onion in creating a balanced flavor profile.
- Garlic: Garlic infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic essence. It’s perfect for bringing out the richness of the chicken sausage.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is the base for the soup, providing a savory, comforting foundation. It adds flavor without being too overpowering.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds creaminess and richness to the soup, making it smooth and indulgent. It balances the savory elements and creates a luxurious texture.
- Dried Thyme: Thyme has an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the chicken sausage and enhances the other herbs. It’s perfect for adding a bit of warmth to the soup.
- Dried Oregano: Oregano contributes a slight bitterness and an herbal punch. It works well with thyme to create a balanced seasoning mix.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper elevate the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to taste to bring the soup to life.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the veggies, adding a mild, fruity flavor. It also helps to bring all the flavors together in the soup.
- Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby finish. It also helps cut through the richness of the cream.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
Chicken sausage soup is a tasty and comforting meal. Start by selecting quality chicken sausages. Fresh sausages will enhance the soup’s flavor, making it richer and more satisfying. Use a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions for added nutrition and taste.
When preparing your chicken sausage soup, try to add herbs such as thyme or rosemary. These ingredients will elevate the flavor and add depth to the soup. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial for bringing out the best in the ingredients.
Feel free to customize your chicken sausage soup with additional ingredients. You can add beans or potatoes to make the soup heartier. For a creamy texture, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk. This will make the soup smoother and more filling.
Chicken Sausage Soup Variation
While the classic chicken sausage soup is delicious, there are many ways to mix things up. Here are some variations you can try:
- Spicy Chicken Sausage Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy chicken sausage to give your soup a kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken sausage for plant-based sausage or simply skip the sausage and load up on extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes.
- Creamy Chicken Sausage Soup: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to make the soup rich and creamy.
- Herb Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or basil for an added depth of flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Sausage Soup
Chicken sausage soup can be served in several ways to enhance the meal experience. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- With Bread: Pair your soup with a warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- With a Side Salad: A light salad with fresh greens can balance the richness of the soup.
- Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta on top of your soup for extra flavor.
- As a Main Dish: This soup can easily serve as the main course. Its hearty nature makes it filling enough for lunch or dinner.
Storage Options
Chicken sausage soup can be stored and reheated for future meals. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: If you want to store the soup for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a little extra broth if needed to thin it out.
FAQs About Chicken Sausage Soup
Is chicken sausage soup healthy?
Yes, chicken sausage soup is generally a healthy choice as it is lower in fat compared to traditional pork sausage soups. The addition of vegetables and lean chicken sausage also boosts the soup’s nutritional value.
Can I freeze chicken sausage soup?
Yes, chicken sausage soup freezes well for up to three months. To preserve its flavor, make sure to store it in an airtight container and cool it completely before freezing.
How long does it take to make chicken sausage soup?
Typically, chicken sausage soup takes about 30 to 40 minutes to prepare, depending on the ingredients. This makes it a great option for a quick and healthy meal.
Can I substitute chicken sausage with another type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute chicken sausage with turkey, pork, or even vegetarian sausage. However, keep in mind that each sausage type will bring its own flavor profile to the soup.
Easy Chicken Sausage Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the Chicken Sausage and Cream: Return the browned chicken sausage to the pot and stir in the heavy cream (if using). Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
