I have to admit, this Chicken Potato Soup might be one of my favorite comfort meals yet. Imagine a bowl filled with creamy goodness, tender chunks of chicken, potato cubes that melt in your mouth, and hints of smoky bacon. When I first made this soup for my family, I was amazed at how quickly it disappeared from their bowls!
It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for cozy evenings. The fact that it’s easy to make and customize is just the cherry on top. Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight meal or a weekend indulgence, this soup will be your go-to recipe for sure. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll feel like a hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this chicken potato soup deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.
1. Easy to Prepare
This soup is beginner-friendly and uses basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. One pot is all you need to bring everything together, which also means minimal cleanup.
2. Customizable Flavors
From adding extra veggies like spinach or kale to experimenting with spices, this recipe allows you to adjust the flavors to suit your preferences. Make it spicy, creamy, or packed with herbs; the choice is yours!
3. Hearty and Filling
With the perfect balance of protein from chicken, the creaminess of potatoes, and the crunch of bacon, this soup satisfies cravings while keeping you full and happy.
4. Great for Meal Prep
This soup freezes and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can cook a big batch, portion it out, and have homemade comfort food any day of the week.
5. Family-Approved Comfort Food
Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a rainy day, this recipe works like magic to bring everyone to the table. Your family will love the savory aroma as much as the taste!
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- Bacon
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Yellow onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Hot sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Flour
- Chicken broth
- Half-and-half
- Yukon gold potatoes
- Cheddar cheese
- Green onions
- Dried parsley, rosemary, oregano, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to customize this recipe.
- Dairy-Free: Replace half-and-half with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Extra Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
- Spice It Up: Add paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky, spicy kick.
Equipment You Need
- Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: To cook and simmer the soup.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring without scraping your pot.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
- Ladle: Perfect for serving.
- Box Grater: For shredding cheese, which melts better than pre-shredded options.
How to Make Chicken Potato Soup?
Follow these simple steps to create a bowl of creamy comfort. 🍲
Step 1: Cook the Bacon 🥓
Start by cooking your bacon over low heat in a soup pot. This allows the fat to render out slowly, adding flavor. Once crispy, set it aside on a plate lined with a paper towel. Reserve some bacon drippings in the pot for the next step.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken 🍗
Season your chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a splash of olive oil in the same pot and sear the chicken on both sides to develop a golden crust. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked; it’ll finish in the soup later.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables 🥕
Using the retained bacon drippings, toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until slightly softened. Then add garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and your seasonings. The aroma at this stage will be irresistible!
Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes 🥔
Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir continuously to cook the raw taste out. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, mixing well. Finally, add your peeled and cubed potatoes, then bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish 🧀
Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the chicken back into the pot. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir in shredded cheese (if using) and some of your crispy bacon for extra richness. Garnish with green onions, and you’re ready to serve!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape beautifully while providing a creamy texture.
- Don’t Overheat After Adding Cheese: Keep the soup on low heat to prevent the cheese from curdling.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor.
- Flavor Balancing: A dash of hot sauce or mustard powder enhances the soup without making it spicy.
How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup?
Presentation plays a big role in making your dish even more appealing. Serve this hearty soup in a deep bowl, garnish with crumbled bacon, freshly chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of grated cheddar. Pair it with warm, crusty bread or a side of buttered crackers for the ultimate cozy meal.
Nutritional Information
This soup is both satisfying and nutritious! Per serving (approx. 1 cup):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fat: 16g
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re prepping in advance, this soup is a great option.
- Refrigerate: Once cooled, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months in leak-proof containers. Just don’t overcook the potatoes to avoid them crumbling when reheated.
- To Reheat: Thaw the soup in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its creamy texture.