Everything Bagel Chicken Soup: A Flavorful & Easy Recipe

Everything Bagel Chicken Soup: Prepare to have your mind blown! Imagine the comforting warmth of classic chicken soup, but elevated to a whole new level with the irresistible flavors of an everything bagel. Yes, you read that right! This isn’t your grandma’s chicken soup (unless your grandma is a culinary genius, of course!).

While the everything bagel itself is a relatively modern invention, gaining popularity in the late 20th century, the concept of flavoring bread with a mix of seeds and spices dates back centuries. Think of the ancient grains and spice routes that have influenced cuisines around the world. This soup takes that historical appreciation for flavor and applies it to a beloved comfort food.

What makes Everything Bagel Chicken Soup so incredibly appealing? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The savory broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles are beautifully complemented by the crunchy, aromatic everything bagel seasoning. The sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a weeknight winner. Who can resist a bowl of warm, flavorful soup that’s both comforting and exciting? I know I can’t!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Soup Base:
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the “Everything Bagel” Flavor:
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• For Serving:
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Everything bagel croutons (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the seasoning mixture. Make sure every piece is nicely covered for maximum flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until nicely browned. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this point, just browned on the outside. This step adds a lot of flavor to the soup!
3. Set Aside: Remove the seared chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside on a plate. They will finish cooking in the soup later.

Building the Soup Base:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet you used to sear the chicken (don’t wipe it out – all those browned bits are flavor gold!), add the olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in a small amount of the chicken broth (about 1/2 cup) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are called fond, and they add a ton of flavor to the soup.
4. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables and deglazed pan drippings to a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Add the remaining chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (undrained). Stir to combine.

Cooking the Soup:

1. Add the Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts into the soup pot. Make sure they are submerged in the broth.
2. Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the soup will become!
3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the soup pot and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. Return Chicken to Soup: Return the shredded chicken to the soup pot. Stir to combine.

Adding the “Everything Bagel” Flavor:

1. Stir in Everything Bagel Seasoning: Add the everything bagel seasoning to the soup pot. Stir well to distribute the seasoning throughout the soup.
2. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the soup pot. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a creamy and slightly tangy broth. This is what gives the soup that signature “everything bagel” flavor!
3. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to taste. You may also want to add a little more everything bagel seasoning if you want a stronger flavor.

Serving:

1. Ladle and Garnish: Ladle the Everything Bagel Chicken Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and everything bagel croutons (if using).
3. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Tips and Variations:

Make it Creamier:

For an even creamier soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. Start with a small amount (about 1/4 cup) and add more to taste.

Add More Vegetables:

Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Add them along with the carrots and celery.

Use Different Protein:

If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can use turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Spice it Up:

For a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Make it in a Slow Cooker:

You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sear the chicken as directed, then add all the ingredients (except the cream cheese and everything bagel seasoning) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken, stir in the cream cheese and everything bagel seasoning, and serve.

Make it Gluten-Free:

Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Most brands are, but it’s always good to check the label.

Storage:

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing:

This soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Everything Bagel Croutons:

To make everything bagel croutons, toss cubed bread with olive oil and everything bagel seasoning. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a simple salad.

Nutritional Information:

Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A rough estimate per serving (without croutons) is approximately: Calories: 350-400, Protein: 30-35g, Fat: 20-25g, Carbohydrates: 15-20g.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Everything Bagel Chicken Soup is a comforting and flavorful twist on classic chicken soup. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic vegetables, and the distinctive flavor of everything bagel seasoning creates a truly unique and satisfying dish. The cream cheese adds a touch of richness and tanginess, while the fresh parsley provides a bright and herbaceous finish. It’s a perfect meal for a chilly day or any time you’re craving something warm and comforting.

The Secret Ingredient:

The real secret to this soup is the everything bagel seasoning. It adds a complex blend of flavors, including sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. This seasoning elevates the soup from ordinary to extraordinary, giving it that unmistakable “everything bagel” taste.

Perfect for Meal Prep:

This soup is also great for meal

Conclusion:

This Everything Bagel Chicken Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The familiar, comforting taste of chicken soup gets a serious upgrade with the iconic everything bagel seasoning, creating a truly unique and unforgettable culinary experience. I promise, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been adding everything bagel seasoning to your soup all along! It’s the perfect blend of savory, salty, and subtly sweet, all swimming in a warm, nourishing broth.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a flavor punch that will impress even the most discerning palates. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinner routine or to comfort yourself on a chilly day. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter! Imagine serving this to your friends and family – they’ll be begging you for the recipe.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a heartier meal: Add some cooked egg noodles, rice, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini to the soup. This will make it even more filling and satisfying.
* Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will add a welcome kick to the soup.
* Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for a richer, creamier texture. A swirl of heavy cream also works wonders.
* Veggie Boost: Feel free to add more vegetables to the soup! Diced carrots, celery, zucchini, or even spinach would be delicious additions.
* Protein Power: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover turkey, or even some cooked chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
* Everything Bagel Croutons: Toast some cubed bread with everything bagel seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil for the perfect crunchy topping.
* Serve with a side of: A crusty loaf of bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple side salad.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! The beauty of soup is that it’s so forgiving and adaptable. You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your personal preferences.

I truly believe that this everything bagel chicken soup is a game-changer. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover chicken, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of everything bagel seasoning in a whole new way. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you loved about it, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Everything Bagel Chicken Soup adventures!