Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup Without Ham!

Okay, friends, gather ’round! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite soup to make when the weather turns chilly – it’s my Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham), and honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. I’ve been making this soup for years, ever since my grandma, bless her heart, showed me the ropes. She always said, “Soup is good for the soul,” and honey, she wasn’t kidding! This recipe is a total comfort food classic, perfect for those evenings when you just want something warm and delicious to curl up with.

The best part? It’s so incredibly easy to make! You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already. No complicated steps, no fancy equipment – just pure, unadulterated soup goodness. And trust me, once you taste that creamy, savory broth with tender chicken and those perfectly cooked split peas, you’ll be hooked too. I promise, this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

Ingredients for Delicious Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

Alright, let’s get down to business – the ingredients! This soup is all about simple, fresh flavors that come together to create something truly special. Don’t worry, nothing too crazy here, just good stuff that you can find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need for this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham):

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped – I like to use a yellow onion for its sweetness, but any kind will do.
• 2 carrots, chopped – Adds a lovely sweetness and color!
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Don’t skip the celery; it adds a nice savory note.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must! It just wouldn’t be the same without it.
• 8 cups chicken broth – This is the base of our soup, so use a good quality broth.
• 1 pound split peas, rinsed – Make sure you give those peas a good rinse under cold water.
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded – Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – These herbs give the soup such a warm, comforting aroma.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously!
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) – For extra creaminess, of course!
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness and color.

Essential Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

So, let’s talk about the stars of the show, the ingredients that really make this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) sing! First, we’ve got the chicken broth, which is the heart and soul of the soup. It provides that rich, savory base that everything else builds upon. Next, the split peas – they’re the ones giving our soup that wonderful, hearty texture. As they cook, they break down a bit and thicken the soup naturally. And finally, the chicken! This adds protein and a delightful, tender bite that makes this soup so satisfying. I usually use shredded chicken, but you can also dice it if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Now, listen, I’m all about making things work for you! So, if you don’t have something on hand, or you just want to shake things up, here are some easy swaps for your Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham). Don’t be afraid to experiment!

• Herbs: If you don’t have thyme and rosemary, feel free to use other herbs you love. Parsley, oregano, or even a bay leaf would be great additions.
• Chicken: Got some leftover turkey? Use that instead! Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sausage for a heartier flavor.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies! A handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking adds extra nutrients.
• Broth: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can sub the chicken broth for vegetable broth.

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own. So, don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. Happy soup-making!

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

Alright, friends, let’s get cooking! This Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) is super simple to make, and I promise, you’ll be enjoying a delicious bowl of soup in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you there:

Preparing the Vegetables

First things first, let’s prep those veggies! This is a crucial step for setting the stage for flavor. Trust me, it’s worth taking a little extra care here.

1. Grab your onion, carrots, and celery. Give them a good wash.
2. Onion: Dice the onion into a nice, small dice. You want those little pieces to soften and meld into the soup.
3. Carrots and Celery: Chop the carrots and celery into similar-sized pieces too. I usually go for about 1/4 inch dice.
4. Garlic: Mince your garlic. This is where the flavor magic happens! Be careful not to mince it too early, though, or it might burn.

Estimated Prep Time: About 10 minutes. It might take a little longer if you’re a beginner, but don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it!

Cooking the Soup Base

Now, let’s build that flavor! This is where the magic really starts to happen, and your kitchen will start smelling amazing.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Be careful, hot oil can splatter!
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they soften up – about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute more, just until you can smell that delicious aroma.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Add the rinsed split peas, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Give everything a good stir.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the split peas are nice and tender.

Estimated Cook Time: About 1 hour. But hey, you can always adjust the cooking time depending on how tender you like your peas!

Adding the Chicken and Finishing Touches

Almost there! Now, it’s time to add the chicken and those final, flavor-boosting touches to make this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) absolutely perfect.

1. Once the split peas are tender, stir in the shredded chicken. Let it heat through for a few minutes.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really make the soup your own! Taste it and add more salt and pepper as needed.
3. If you’re feeling fancy, stir in the heavy cream for an extra creamy texture. It’s totally optional, but oh-so-delicious.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with some fresh chopped parsley. That little pop of green makes it look so pretty!

And there you have it! A big, comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) ready to enjoy. Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a perfect meal. Yum!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

So, why is this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) the bee’s knees? Well, let me tell you! It’s got so much going for it, I hardly know where to start. Here’s a little rundown of why I think you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

• Super Easy to Make: Seriously, this soup is a breeze! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of savory chicken broth, tender chicken, and those creamy split peas is just heavenly. It’s a flavor explosion in every spoonful!
• Comfort Food at Its Finest: This soup is like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s the ultimate comfort food, guaranteed to make you feel cozy and content.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is good for you too! It’s a satisfying and wholesome meal that you can feel good about eating.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this soup to your liking. Add different veggies, herbs, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to make it your own.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! It’s perfect for meal prepping and enjoying for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• No Ham Needed! You won’t miss the ham, I promise! The chicken and the other ingredients provide all the flavor you need. We’re keeping things simple and delicious.

Honestly, what’s not to love? This Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) checks all the boxes for a perfect meal. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a new favorite in your household too!

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

Alright, you’ve got your soup simmering away, and you’re almost there! But, listen, a few little tricks can take your Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) from good to *amazing*. Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks to ensure soup success!

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Okay, let’s talk about the texture of your soup. You want it to be just right – not too thin and watery, and definitely not a thick, gloopy mess. The good news is, it’s easy to control the thickness!

• Let it Simmer: The longer your soup simmers, the more the split peas will break down and thicken the broth naturally. So, just be patient!
• Too Thin? If your soup is too thin for your liking, you can let it simmer, uncovered, for a bit longer to help some of the liquid evaporate.
• Too Thick? If it gets too thick, just add a little more chicken broth or even some water until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess: Now, here’s a secret weapon: If you really want a super creamy soup, you can use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer some of the soup to a regular blender) and blend a portion of the soup until smooth. This will give it a lovely, velvety texture. Be careful when working with hot liquids, though!

Seasoning for Maximum Flavor

Listen, seasoning is where you can truly make your Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) sing! Don’t be shy about tasting and adjusting the seasoning as you go. It’s the key to unlocking all those delicious flavors.

• Taste, Taste, Taste: Taste your soup frequently throughout the cooking process. Seriously, I can’t stress this enough! This is how you’ll know if it needs more salt, pepper, or anything else.
• Salt and Pepper: These are your best friends here. Start with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, and then add more to taste. Remember, the salt will enhance all the other flavors.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat, or a dash of smoked paprika can add a smoky depth. Garlic powder and onion powder are also great additions if you want to boost the existing flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a sprig of thyme added right before serving can really brighten things up.

Using Leftover Chicken

One of the best things about this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) is that it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken. It’s a total game-changer, and it saves you time and effort. Here’s how to do it safely and deliciously:

• Choose Your Chicken: Any cooked chicken will work! Leftover roasted chicken, grilled chicken, or even rotisserie chicken from the store is perfect.
• Shred or Dice: Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to your soup.
• Add It at the End: Add the chicken to the soup during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. You just want to heat it through so it doesn’t dry out.
• Safety First: Make sure your leftover chicken has been stored properly in the refrigerator. Use it within 3-4 days for best results. If you’re unsure if it’s still good, it’s always better to be safe and toss it.

Using leftover chicken not only makes this recipe super convenient, it also adds extra flavor and protein! It’s a win-win, really.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

Alright, you’ve got this amazing pot of Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) simmering away, and now you’re wondering what to serve with it, right? Well, let me tell you, there are so many delicious options! This soup is pretty versatile, so you can pair it with all sorts of things. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

• Crusty Bread: You absolutely can’t go wrong with a big, crusty loaf of bread for dipping! The best part? You can use it to soak up all that delicious broth. Garlic bread is also a winner, if you ask me!
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic comfort food pairing right here! A gooey, cheesy grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect sidekick for this soup. Yum!
• Side Salad: If you’re looking for something a little lighter, a fresh side salad is a great choice. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the soup.
• Crackers: Sometimes, all you need is a handful of crackers. Saltines, oyster crackers, or even some fancy gourmet crackers will do the trick.
• Cornbread: Oh, yes! Cornbread and split pea soup are a match made in heaven. The slight sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory soup perfectly.
• For the Gluten-Free Folks: No worries! This soup is naturally gluten-free (as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, of course!). Serve it with some gluten-free bread or crackers.
• For the Veggie Lovers: Add a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, for a complete and balanced meal.

Honestly, the possibilities are endless! Just pick your favorite combination and enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham). Bon appétit!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a big batch of this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) – awesome! But what do you do with all those delicious leftovers? Don’t worry, my friend, this soup is perfect for meal prepping and enjoying for days to come. Here’s the lowdown on how to store and reheat it safely, so you can savor every last drop:

• Cool It Down: First things first, let the soup cool down completely before you even think about storing it. This is super important to prevent any food safety issues. I usually let it sit on the counter for about an hour, stirring it occasionally to help it cool faster.
• Storage Containers: Once it’s cool, transfer the soup to airtight containers. I love using glass containers, but plastic works just fine too. Make sure the containers are clean and dry.
• In the Fridge: Pop those containers of soup into the refrigerator. Properly stored, this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) will last for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing for Later: Want to keep your soup for even longer? Freeze it! This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave a little space at the top of the container for expansion, since liquids expand when they freeze.
• Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Or, if you’re in a hurry, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating Without Sacrificing Flavor

Now, let’s talk about reheating! You want to make sure your soup tastes just as good as it did the first time, right? Here’s how to do it:

• Stovetop: This is my favorite method! Pour the soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Be careful not to boil it, as that can change the texture.
• Microwave: This is a quick and easy option, especially if you’re just heating up a single serving. Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot.
• Add a Splash: Sometimes, the soup might thicken up a bit during storage. If that happens, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out a little.
• Taste and Adjust: Before you dig in, give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might need to add a little more salt or pepper.

And there you have it! Now you can enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) all week long. Leftovers are the best, wouldn’t you agree? It’s like a gift to yourself – a ready-made, comforting meal whenever you need it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common questions I get about my Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham), so you can be a soup pro in no time.

Can I make this Split Pea Soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! I love making this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot when I’m short on time. Here’s how:

• Slow Cooker: Put all the ingredients (except the heavy cream and parsley) into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the split peas are tender. Stir in the heavy cream at the end, and garnish with parsley. Easy peasy!
• Instant Pot: Add all the ingredients (again, except the heavy cream and parsley) to your Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Release any remaining pressure, stir in the heavy cream, and garnish with parsley.

Just remember to adjust the cooking times based on your appliance and how tender you like your split peas. Both methods are great for making a big batch of soup without a lot of hands-on work!

Is this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) gluten-free?

Yes, my friends, this Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients are safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. However, always double-check your chicken broth to make sure it’s certified gluten-free. Some brands might have hidden gluten. Otherwise, you’re good to go!

Can I freeze Chicken Soup Recipes?

You betcha! This Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham) freezes beautifully. It’s one of my favorite things to do with leftovers. Here’s how:

• Cool Completely: Make sure the soup is completely cooled before freezing.
• Portion It Out: Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags. I like to freeze it in individual portions for easy lunches.
• Leave Room: If you’re using containers, leave a little space at the top, since liquids expand when they freeze.
• Seal and Label: Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date.
• Freeze: Freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Delicious!

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

No worries at all! If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can still make a delicious and creamy Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham). Here are some easy substitutes:

• Milk: Use whole milk, 2%, or even skim milk. The soup won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be tasty.
• Half-and-Half: This is a great option for a little extra creaminess.
• Coconut Milk: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, canned coconut milk works wonders! Use the full-fat kind for the best results. It will add a subtle coconut flavor, which I actually really enjoy with this soup.
• Greek Yogurt: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt at the end for a tangy, creamy twist. Make sure to stir it in gently, so it doesn’t curdle.
• Cashew Cream: Blend raw cashews with water until smooth and creamy. This is another great dairy-free option that adds a nice richness.

Just remember to adjust the amount of liquid as needed to get your desired consistency. Happy souping!

Estimated Nutritional Information for Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)

Alright, so you’re probably wondering about the nitty-gritty details, right? How many calories are in this amazing Creamy Chicken Split Pea Soup (No Ham)? Well, here’s a rough estimate – keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use and the brands, but it’s a pretty good ballpark figure:

Per Serving (about 1.5 cups):

• Calories: Around 350
• Sugar: About 5g
• Sodium: Approximately 600mg (watch out for that sodium in the broth!)
• Fat: Around 20g (remember, that heavy cream adds a little something!)
• Saturated Fat: About 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: Roughly 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g (hooray!)
• Carbohydrates: About 30g
• Fiber: Around 8g (thanks, split peas!)
• Protein: Roughly 25g (that chicken is doing its job!)
• Cholesterol: About 80mg

So, there you have it! A pretty decent nutritional profile for a super delicious and comforting meal. Remember, these numbers are just an estimate, and they can vary depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, enjoy your soup knowing you’re nourishing your body with something yummy and wholesome! And trust me, it’s worth every single calorie.

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