Roasted Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Butternut Squash Soup with Cream Cheese and Toasted Bread Bites

#### Instructions:

1. **Roast the Vegetables and Chicken**: Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Spread the cubed **butternut squash** and **sweet potatoes** on a baking sheet. Drizzle with **olive oil**, season with **salt**, and **pepper**, and toss to coat. Place the chicken breasts on the same sheet and season with **salt**, **pepper**, and **thyme**. Roast for **25-30 minutes**, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

2. **Prepare the Soup Base**: While the chicken and vegetables are roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of **olive oil** and sauté the **onion** for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the **garlic**, **cumin**, **cinnamon**, and **ginger** (if using), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. **Combine the Soup**: Once the chicken is roasted, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Add the **roasted sweet potatoes**, **butternut squash**, and shredded chicken to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the **chicken broth** and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. **Blend the Soup**: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup. Once blended, stir in the softened **cream cheese** until completely melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with **salt**, **pepper**, and **maple syrup** if you’d like a little extra sweetness.

5. **Prepare the Toasted Bread Bites**: While the soup is simmering, slice the **crusty bread** into small cubes. In a skillet, melt a little **butter** over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and toast them until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. You can also bake them at **400°F (200°C)** on a baking sheet for 10 minutes, tossing halfway through.

6. **Serve**: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and top with a handful of **toasted bread bites** for a delightful crunch. Garnish with fresh thyme, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with a side of your favorite salad or enjoy on its own for a satisfying meal.

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### Tips for the Perfect Roasted Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Butternut Squash Soup

– **Make it Ahead**: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat and top with fresh toasted bread bites before serving.
– **Blend to Your Preference**: If you like a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture and leave the rest for texture. For a smoother, creamier soup, blend everything until silky smooth.
– **Add Spice**: For a little kick, consider adding **crushed red pepper flakes** or a dash of **hot sauce** when blending the soup.
– **Sweeten It Up**: A tablespoon of **maple syrup** or honey can help enhance the sweetness of the squash and sweet potatoes, balancing the savory flavors of the chicken.
– **Herb Variations**: Fresh herbs like **rosemary** or **sage** can add an extra layer of fragrance and flavor to this soup, perfect for cozy fall or winter meals.

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### Why This Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This **Roasted Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Butternut Squash Soup with Cream Cheese and Toasted Bread Bites** is not just a meal — it’s an experience. With its rich, creamy texture, earthy sweetness from the vegetables, and savory chicken, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The **toasted bread bites** add the perfect crunch, making every spoonful a little more special.

Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter night with family, preparing it for a holiday meal, or serving it as a comforting lunch, this soup is sure to impress. It’s a perfect way to make the most of seasonal ingredients while providing a nourishing meal that everyone will love.

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### Conclusion: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Meal

This **Roasted Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Butternut Squash Soup with Cream Cheese and Toasted Bread Bites** is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the best of fall and winter ingredients in one pot. From the roasted vegetables and creamy soup base to the tender chicken and crispy bread bites, each element comes together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. So, next time you’re in need of a hearty, cozy dish, try making this soup — it’s the ultimate way to enjoy the flavors of the season.