Warm up with a comforting bowl of chicken potato soup. This creamy, hearty dish is made with tender chicken and potatoes, making it the perfect comfort food for any chilly day. It’s quick, easy, and full of savory flavors that are sure to please everyone.
Why We Love This Chicken Potato Soup
This chicken potato soup isn’t just another bowl of soup – it’s a hearty, creamy, and comforting meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Let’s talk about why this recipe is a must-try!
Hearty and Filling:
With tender chunks of chicken and creamy potatoes, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect meal to fuel you through the day. The combination of chicken and potatoes creates a comforting balance of flavors that’s simple yet indulgent.
Quick and Easy:
You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up this soup. The ingredients are straightforward, and the process is quick and easy. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe makes it simple to create a meal that feels like it’s been simmering all day long – without the wait.
Versatile Comfort Food:
Chicken potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily add in your favorite veggies, swap out ingredients, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, it’s great for any season – perfect for chilly winter evenings or a light, satisfying dinner any time of the year.
Budget-Friendly:
Made with everyday ingredients like chicken, potatoes, and carrots, this soup is easy on your wallet. It’s the perfect go-to meal when you want something delicious without breaking the bank.
Leftovers for Days:
One of the best things about this recipe? It makes great leftovers! The flavors only get better as the soup sits, making it ideal for meal prep or a comforting lunch the next day.
Ingredients
Olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and add flavor.
Chicken (breast or thighs) – Choose chicken breast for a leaner option or thighs for more flavor.
Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for a creamy base.
Onion – Adds savory depth and sweetness.
Carrots – Provide sweetness and texture.
Celery – Adds freshness and crunch.
Garlic – For a savory aroma and depth of flavor.
Chicken broth – The soup’s base for rich, savory flavor.
Heavy cream or milk – Adds creaminess. Use heavy cream for a richer soup, or milk for a lighter version.
Instructions
Now that we’ve got all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This creamy chicken potato soup comes together in no time! Here’s how to make it:
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Add chicken to the pot and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Soup Base: In the same pot, add potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Shred the Chicken: Shred the cooked chicken with two forks. Add it back into the pot once the potatoes are tender.
Add Creaminess: Pour in heavy cream (or milk) and stir. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Add more broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, stir in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Pro Tips
Want to take your chicken potato soup to the next level? Here are some pro tips to ensure the soup turns out perfectly every time:
Choose the Right Potatoes:
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup. Yukon Gold potatoes are naturally creamy and smooth when cooked, while Russets break down more easily to create a thicker texture. Both varieties will give you that rich, comforting soup base.
Shred the Chicken for Better Texture:
After cooking the chicken, shredding it with two forks ensures a more uniform texture throughout the soup. You can even shred the chicken directly into the pot for easier cleanup. For a quicker option, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken in seconds!
Adjust the Creaminess:
If you prefer a lighter soup, opt for milk instead of heavy cream. For a richer, more indulgent soup, go with heavy cream. You can also add a splash of half-and-half for a good balance between the two.
Make It Thicker:
For a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher. This will give the soup a creamy, rustic texture. If it’s still too thin, just let it simmer a little longer to allow the potatoes to break down further.
Seasoning Is Key:
Don’t skimp on seasoning! Make sure to taste and adjust the salt and pepper. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can bring out even more flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can really brighten up the soup just before serving.
Meal Prep-Friendly:
This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it also freezes well. If you’re making it ahead, just let it cool completely before storing. When reheating, you might want to add a little extra broth or cream to restore the soup’s original creamy consistency.
Variations
While this chicken potato soup recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it and make it your own. Here are a few fun variations to consider:
Add Greens for Extra Veggies:
Boost the nutrition of your soup by adding greens like spinach, kale, or collard greens. Stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a burst of color and a healthy addition. The greens will wilt into the soup, adding flavor and texture without overpowering the dish.
Spicy Chicken Potato Soup:
If you love a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the veggies. For an extra spicy kick, you can also add a splash of hot sauce to the broth as it simmers. Adjust the heat level to your liking!
Swap for Sweet Potatoes:
For a twist on the classic, try swapping out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and broth, and they add a lovely, vibrant color to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken potato soup is so versatile and comforting on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the meal, here are some fantastic serving suggestions to make it even more satisfying:
Pair with Crusty Bread:
A thick slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this hearty soup. Whether it’s a baguette, sourdough, or even a rustic whole-grain loaf, the bread will soak up the creamy broth and add an extra layer of texture to each bite.
Serve with a Fresh Salad:
Balance the richness of the soup with a light, refreshing salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy soup. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for added flavor.
Top with Crumbled Bacon or Cheese:
Add a little extra indulgence by topping your soup with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs. A sprinkle of crispy bacon or a handful of sharp cheddar can really bring the dish to life. For a more decadent option, try a swirl of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil.
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FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for chicken potato soup?
For the best texture, opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds are naturally creamy and hold their shape well, while Russets break down into a smooth consistency, perfect for thickening the soup.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well in this recipe, but it can be a bit drier than thighs. If you choose breast, be sure not to overcook it to keep it moist. Thighs add extra richness and flavor, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you want a thicker consistency, try mashing a portion of the potatoes directly in the pot. This will help create a creamy, hearty texture. Alternatively, you can let the soup simmer longer to allow the potatoes to break down and thicken the broth.
Can I freeze chicken potato soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
What can I serve with chicken potato soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also top it with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of sour cream for extra richness.
chicken potato soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs boneless, skinless
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs optional
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken
- Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) to the pot. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Soup Base
- In the same pot, add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Shred the Chicken
- While the potatoes are cooking, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Once the potatoes are tender, add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Add Creaminess
- Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Season to Taste
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.