This protein-packed chicken soup with cottage cheese, vegetables, and herbs is a wholesome meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, savory flavors while remaining light and healthy. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or something warm for a chilly day, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein – Thanks to chicken and cottage cheese, this soup is packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal.
- Easy and quick – Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy days.
- Wholesome ingredients – Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is nutritious and delicious.
- Comforting and creamy – The cottage cheese adds a rich texture without being heavy.
- Great for meal prep – Make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Add the peas during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, cottage cheese, and thyme until well combined and heated through.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot and enjoy this hearty and nutritious meal.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Extra Creamy – Blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken for a thicker texture.
- More Vegetables – Try adding spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Herb Boost – Fresh parsley or basil can enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Low-Carb Option – Swap peas for chopped zucchini or cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed to adjust consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken in the broth, then shred it before adding the cottage cheese.
2. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well and keeps the soup light while still adding creaminess.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can omit the cottage cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like blended silken tofu for creaminess.
4. What can I use instead of thyme?
Oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning are great alternatives.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, then stir in the cottage cheese at the end.
6. Will the cottage cheese melt into the soup?
Cottage cheese will soften and blend slightly into the broth, creating a creamy texture.
7. Can I add noodles or rice to this soup?
Absolutely! Cooked rice or pasta can be added for extra heartiness.
8. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.
9. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well and save prep time. Add them directly to the soup.
10. How can I thicken the soup?
Blend a portion of the soup, add a cornstarch slurry, or mix in mashed potatoes for thickness.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Chicken Soup is a deliciously creamy yet healthy meal that’s easy to make and packed with protein. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or a cozy meal-prep option, this soup is perfect. Try out the variations, store leftovers for later, and enjoy a warm bowl whenever you need some comfort food
Cottage Cheese Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Soup is a protein-packed, creamy, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day. Made with tender chicken, cottage cheese, and hearty vegetables, this comforting soup is easy to make in just 30 minutes. Whether you're meal prepping or craving a cozy bowl of warmth, this high-protein, low-calorie soup is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables – Add sliced carrots and celery, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Simmer Broth – Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Add peas in the last 2-3 minutes.
- Add Protein & Herbs – Stir in shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and thyme. Let everything heat through.
- Season & Serve – Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra creaminess: Blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken.
- For a spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- For more veggies: Add spinach, kale, or bell peppers.
- For a low-carb option: Swap peas for zucchini or cauliflower.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
