This really is one of those soups that starts off looking like nothing much and then somehow turns into a dinner where everyone will be back for seconds.

I’ve used chicken mince but you can definitely use what you’ve got, like poached or leftover BBQ chicken. Onion, garlic and celery do the usual base work. Then you build it up with tomato paste and paprika, some staple veg and the risoni that thickens it into something that sits more like a stew than a soup.

Chicken mince, stock, vegetables, parsley and cream sit on a bench along with several other ingredients.

This soup has all the makings of a satisfying meal, with plenty of protein, veggies and filling risoni. (ABC News: Lina Jebeile)

The cream goes in at the end and brings everything together perfectly. You end up with a warm, thick soup that’s a bit too easy to eat straight from the pot while you’re checking the seasoning!

Cream is poured from a jug into a large pot of red coloured soup on a stove top.

If using thickened cream, turn off the heat before adding so it doesn’t split. (ABC News: Lina Jebeile)

NotesCooking cream as opposed to regular cream is less likely to split. If using thickened cream, stir it through after turning off the heat.You can swap the chicken mince for 3 to 4 cups of shredded poached chicken or even leftover BBQ chicken. Add it with the peas and cream since the chicken is already cooked.A small bowl of soup, with a spoon in it, sits on a bench.

The cream added at the end of cooking brings this soup together, making a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. (ABC News: Lina Jebeile)

Posted Sat 6 Jun 2026 at 12:00pmSat 6 Jun 2026 at 12:00pm

Sat 6 Jun 2026 at 12:00pm