Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that warms you up on chilly days. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and flavorful potatoes make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and seasonings creates a deliciously rich broth.
• Creamy Texture: The half-and-half adds a velvety creaminess that makes each spoonful delightful.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with chicken and veggies, this soup is hearty and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Chicken Potato Soup, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without overflow.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of ingredients for even cooking.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping the pot clean while adding flavor to your soup.

Ingredients

This Chicken Potato Soup recipe has a creamy and flavorful broth with Turkey Bacon, tender potatoes, juicy chicken, and the best seasonings.

Meat & Broth

• 6 strips thick cut Turkey Bacon (plus 2 tbsp. Turkey Bacon drippings)
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
• 5 cups chicken broth

Vegetables & Seasonings

• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• ¾ cup carrots (diced)
• 2 ribs celery (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Dairy & Thickeners

• 1 cup half and half
• 2 tablespoons butter (not needed if Turkey Bacon drippings are used)
• ¼ cup flour

Potatoes & Toppings

• 1 ½ lbs. yukon gold potatoes (or red potatoes)
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Green onions (to garnish)

Herbs & Spices

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon EACH: dried rosemary, oregano, mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

How to Make Chicken Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook the Turkey Bacon in a large soup pot slowly over low heat. For even cooking, consider cutting the strips in half. While it cooks, measure out other ingredients. Once cooked, set aside on a paper towel-lined plate and chop once cooled. Reserve 2 tablespoons of Turkey Bacon drippings.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Wipe any dark spots from the pot but leave as much of the Turkey Bacon remnants as possible for flavor. Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. It’s okay if it’s not fully cooked; it will finish in the soup. Set aside to rest for 10 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the reserved Turkey Bacon drippings back to the pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Stir in minced garlic along with hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine all seasonings evenly throughout the vegetable mixture.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for about 2 minutes until any raw flour smell dissipates. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to keep everything smooth; do this in small splashes to incorporate well.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Peel yukon gold potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes before adding them to your simmering soup mixture. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to maintain a gentle simmer while covering partially.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Return seared chicken along with its juices back into the pot; simmer until potatoes are fork-tender—about 20 minutes should do it!

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked through, reduce heat to low before sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese into your Chicken Potato Soup if desired! Stir in half of your chopped Turkey Bacon now too—saving some for garnishing when serving! Top each bowl with green onions before enjoying!

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is rich and creamy, making it a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with freshly baked crusty bread or rolls for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture and adds a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving. This enhances the flavor and adds a gooey texture that everyone loves.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Add chopped green onions as a garnish for a pop of color and freshness. They provide a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair the soup with a light side salad. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store leftovers in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Reheat in the microwave for a quick, nourishing meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Potato Soup

Perfecting your Chicken Potato Soup can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will make your soup taste vibrant and delicious. Always choose high-quality produce when available.

• Cook slowly: Allowing your soup to simmer gently helps all flavors meld together beautifully. This slow cooking enhances depth of flavor.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Every palate is different, so make it yours!

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like crispy onions or herbs. They can add unique textures and flavors to every bowl.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Potato Soup

To make your meal complete, consider serving these delightful side dishes alongside your Chicken Potato Soup. Each option brings something special to the table.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter adds an aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with soup.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp lettuce and creamy dressing that complements the hearty flavors of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies serve as a colorful, nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.

4. Cheese Quesadillas: These cheesy delights offer a crunchy texture and can be easily dipped into the soup for added flavor.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and cheese create a filling side dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

6. Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread enhances the meal’s overall comfort factor, making it an excellent companion for chicken potato soup.

7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh the palate between bites of rich, creamy soup, balancing flavors nicely.

8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add an extra layer of potato goodness that complements your chicken potato soup well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Potato Soup from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the chicken properly can lead to a bland flavor. Always sear until golden for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: If you let the potatoes cook too long, they may become mushy. Check for fork tenderness around the 20-minute mark.
• Neglecting to Season: Forgetting to season at different stages can result in a flat soup. Season while cooking and adjust at the end for optimal flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can affect the overall taste of your soup. Always use high-quality chicken broth for best results.
• Not Letting It Rest: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld properly. Let it sit after cooking for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Chicken Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Potato Soup.

What is Chicken Potato Soup?

Chicken Potato Soup is a creamy and hearty dish made with chicken, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth.

Can I use other meats in Chicken Potato Soup?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or beef for chicken if desired. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make my Chicken Potato Soup thicker?

To thicken, you can add more flour or puree a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

How long does it take to make Chicken Potato Soup?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Potato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!