There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Chicken Potato Soup recipe—especially on a cold day. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket, except this one is filled with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and rich, flavorful broth. Whether you need an easy weeknight meal or something to meal prep for the week, this soup is here to save the day. Trust me, it’s as comforting as it gets. Plus, the ingredients are simple, affordable, and probably already sitting in your kitchen.
If you’re a fan of comfort foods (and honestly, who isn’t?), you might also want to check out this delicious recipe for Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions, another soul-warming dish to keep on rotation.
But for now, let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the ultimate Chicken Potato Soup—from the basic recipe to fun variations, tips, and serving ideas!
Why Chicken Potato Soup recipe? The Comfort Food Champion
So, why should you be making Chicken Potato Soup instead of any of the other hundreds of soup recipes out there? Well, here’s why this soup reigns supreme in the comfort food world:
- Simple, Affordable Ingredients: The backbone of this soup is stuff you probably already have—chicken, potatoes, and a few veggies. Nothing fancy, nothing complicated.
- Totally Customizable: You can make it creamy, broth-based, or even throw in extra ingredients like bacon, cheese, or veggies. It’s your soup; make it your way! For more soup inspiration, check out this Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe.
- Healthy but Satisfying: You get protein from the chicken and fiber from the potatoes, making it filling and nutritious. Plus, you can easily tweak the recipe to make it lighter or heartier.
Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or just something cozy to make for yourself, Chicken Potato Soup has got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Potato Soup
Let’s talk about the key players in this soup. The best part? You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand. But if you don’t, feel free to make swaps or add extras based on what you have!
1. Chicken
- Best Cuts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra flavor, or if you’re feeling healthy, chicken breasts work too. In a rush? Rotisserie chicken is your BFF.
- Pro Tip: Cooking the chicken in the soup gives it maximum flavor, but using pre-cooked chicken will save time if you’re in a pinch.
2. Potatoes
- Best Varieties: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are perfect because they hold their shape without turning into mush.
- Pro Tip: Leave the skins on for a rustic vibe and extra nutrients. But if smooth soup is more your thing, feel free to peel them.
3. Veggies
- The Basics: Carrots, celery, and onions are the holy trinity of soup-making. These three add depth and flavor to your broth.
- Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic, right?
- Optional Extras: Want to go the extra mile? Toss in some greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients, or even bell peppers for a little crunch.
4. Broth
- Chicken Broth: The backbone of your soup. It’s where all that delicious, savory flavor comes from.
- Creamy Option: If you want a more indulgent soup, swap out some of the broth for cream or milk. Just a little can go a long way in turning this into a luscious, creamy dish.
5. Herbs and Spices
- Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are classics here, but parsley works wonders too.
- Spices: Keep it simple with salt, pepper, and maybe a pinch of cayenne if you want a little heat.
Let’s Cook: Step-by-Step Chicken Potato Soup Recipe
Alright, let’s get into it! Here’s how to make the best Chicken Potato Soup you’ve ever had, step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken (thighs, breasts, or rotisserie)
- 1 lb potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
- 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides—about 5-6 minutes per side. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, feel free to skip this step. Once done, set the chicken aside.
- Sauté the veggies: In the same pot, toss in the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re soft and your kitchen smells amazing.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the whole thing to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Shred the chicken: While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken with two forks. Add it back into the pot once the potatoes are done.
- Make it creamy (optional): If you’re in the mood for something richer, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with fresh parsley or shredded cheese, and serve with some warm bread for dipping. You’re done!
Fun Variations of Chicken Potato Soup
If you’re like me and love experimenting in the kitchen, here are a few ways you can shake things up with your Chicken Potato Soup recipe.
1. Creamy Chicken Potato Soup
- If you want your soup extra creamy, swap out some of the chicken broth for heavy cream or even half-and-half. The result? A rich, velvety soup that feels indulgent but still hearty.
2. Healthy Chicken Potato Soup
- Want to keep things on the lighter side? Skip the cream and use a low-sodium chicken broth. You can also throw in extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to up the fiber and nutrient content.
3. Chicken and Bacon Potato Soup
- If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, fry up some bacon and crumble it over the top of your soup. You can also stir the bacon right into the soup for an extra smoky flavor.
4. Spicy Chicken Potato Soup
- If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the top when you serve it. Trust me, it’ll kick things up a notch.
5. Cheesy Chicken Potato Soup
- Who doesn’t love cheese? Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan during the last few minutes of cooking. It’ll melt into the soup and add a deliciously cheesy flavor.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Potato Soup
To ensure your Chicken Potato Soup turns out perfect every time, here are a few pro tips you’ll want to keep in mind.
1. Avoid Overcooking the Potatoes
- Potatoes are great, but they can get mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and make sure to pull the soup off the heat as soon as they’re tender.
2. Adjusting the Consistency
- Want your soup thicker? You can either mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry made of flour and water. If you prefer it thinner, just add more broth.
3. Freezing the Soup
- This soup freezes beautifully! Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.
4. Storing Leftovers
- Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
What to Serve with Chicken Potato Soup
Sure, this soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, here are a few side ideas that will take your dinner to the next level.
1. Crusty Bread
- There’s nothing better than dipping a slice of crusty bread into a warm bowl of soup. Whether you go for sourdough or a classic baguette, bread is a must.
2. Salad
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup. You can keep it basic with just greens and dressing, or throw in some avocado and tomatoes for extra flavor.
3. Crackers
- If bread isn’t your thing, go for crackers. You can even crumble them directly into the soup for some crunch.
4. Garnishes
- Top your soup with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or even a drizzle of olive oil. Little touches like this go a long way in elevating the dish.
FAQs About Chicken Potato Soup
You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions people ask about making Chicken Potato Soup.
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Just toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
2. What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
- Yukon Gold and russet potatoes are your best bet because they hold their shape without turning to mush. But really, you can use whatever you have on hand!
3. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
- Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just add the shredded chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat it through.
4. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
- Totally. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before freezing. You can store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
5. How long does it last in the fridge?
- You can store this soup in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.
6. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
- Definitely! Just skip the cream and use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk.
Conclusion
There you have it—everything you need to know to make the best Chicken Potato Soup ever! Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and absolutely delicious. Plus, it’s super customizable, so feel free to play around with the ingredients and make it your own.
So next time you’re in the mood for something warm, comforting, and totally satisfying, give this Chicken Potato Soup recipe a try. Trust me, it’ll become a staple in your home!