Chicken and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chunks of chicken with creamy potatoes in a flavorful broth. The soup is often seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs like thyme or rosemary, which add warmth and depth to the dish. The potatoes thicken the broth as they cook, creating a rich, creamy texture, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein boost.
The first time I made Chicken and Potato Soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how filling and satisfying it was, despite being a relatively simple recipe. The potatoes and chicken melded together perfectly, and the broth became velvety smooth, almost like a creamy chowder without the heaviness. What I love most about this soup is how versatile it is—you can add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, or even add a touch of cream for extra richness. It’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening or when you want something comforting and filling!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Cold weather meals
- Family gatherings
- Meal prep
- Chicken soup lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Chicken and Potato Soup will become a family favorite:
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of chicken and potatoes creates a substantial soup that will keep you full and satisfied.
- Creamy and Smooth: The creamy base adds a velvety texture that makes each spoonful comforting and rich.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken is perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender, adding a satisfying bite to the soup.
- Flavorful Broth: The broth is rich, savory, and well-seasoned, creating a depth of flavor that enhances the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different vegetables or add extra herbs to customize the flavor.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this soup quick and easy to prepare.
- One-Pot Dish: Everything is cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup can be stored in the fridge for days or frozen for later use.
- Comforting and Nourishing: Ideal for cold weather or when you’re in need of a warm, comforting meal.
- Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavor and smooth texture, this soup is perfect for picky eaters.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 15g
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, providing a savory foundation.
- Potatoes: Add texture and heartiness, making the soup filling.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, creamy texture without being too heavy.
- Carrots and Celery: Contribute natural sweetness and crunch to the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Soup:
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 2-3 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and shredded cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Chicken and Potato Soup:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- For Lunch: A lighter serving paired with a simple salad makes for a satisfying lunch.
- As a Comfort Meal: Perfect on chilly nights when you need something cozy and filling.
- Topped with Beef Bacon: Add crispy beef bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
- With Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread complements the savory broth beautifully.
- For a Hearty Meal: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a mixed greens salad.
- As Part of a Family Dinner: Serve as the main dish alongside a fruit salad for a balanced meal.
- With Cheese Crisps: Add a crunchy texture by topping the soup with homemade cheese crisps.
- For Game Day: A great addition to a game day spread, served in small bowls.
- With a Dollop of Sour Cream: Add sour cream for extra creaminess and a tangy contrast.
Additional Tips
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor: Bone-in chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, adds more depth to the broth as it simmers.
- Sear the chicken first: For a richer flavor, brown the chicken in the pot before adding the broth and vegetables.
- Add garlic and herbs: Fresh garlic, thyme, and rosemary can enhance the soup’s fragrance and taste. Add them early for a well-rounded flavor.
- Use starchy potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup as they break down slightly during cooking, making the soup thicker and creamier.
- Adjust the thickness: If the soup is too thick, add extra chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.
- Add a splash of cream or milk: For a creamier texture, stir in heavy cream or whole milk towards the end of cooking.
- Add vegetables for more nutrition: Carrots, celery, or leeks can be added for additional flavor and nutrition. Chop them finely to blend seamlessly into the soup.
- Season in layers: Taste and season the soup at different stages of cooking. This ensures a more balanced flavor as the ingredients meld together.
- Use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach: If you’re pressed for time, cook the soup in a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low for a more developed taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or crumbled bacon: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme, or crumbled bacon, adds a burst of color and extra flavor to each bowl.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian soup.
- Add Corn: For extra sweetness and texture, add 1 cup of corn kernels.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder for a spicier version.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Chicken and Leek Soup: Substitute leeks for onions for a milder, more delicate flavor.
- Cheese Version: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Special Equipment
- Large Soup Pot: A sturdy pot with a lid is ideal for making soups.
- Immersion Blender: For blending the soup to your desired texture.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure accurate measurements for seasonings.
- Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup. - How long does this soup last?
The soup lasts for up to 4 days in the fridge in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. - Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the soup on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add peas, green beans, or parsnips for extra texture and flavor. - How do I make this soup spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or diced fresh chilies to give it a spicy kick. - Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, you can substitute milk for a lighter version of the soup. - What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra broth if it thickens too much. - Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or any other variety you prefer. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients for a larger batch. You may need to cook it in two pots.
Conclusion
Chicken and Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chunks of chicken with creamy potatoes, vegetables, and flavorful broth. The potatoes provide a comforting, starchy base, while the chicken adds protein and richness. The soup is typically seasoned with garlic, onions, thyme, and other herbs, and it can be made with a variety of broths—chicken, vegetable, or even creamy versions for a richer texture.
The beauty of this soup is in its simplicity. You can customize it with add-ins like carrots, celery, spinach, or even a splash of cream or milk for extra richness. It’s perfect for chilly days, serving as a filling lunch or dinner, and is great for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
I can’t wait to see how your Chicken and Potato Soup turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!