Chicken Potato Soup Recipe

If you're searching for a delicious and nourishing meal that's easy to make, this Chicken Potato Soup Recipe is the answer! This hearty and flavorful soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and aromatic vegetables in a savory broth. It's perfect for chilly days or when you're craving something warm and satisfying. Whether you're an experienced cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delicious pot of chicken potato soup. Keep reading to learn how to prepare this delightful dish, along with tips for substitutions, serving ideas, and more!

this Recipe

What is Chicken Potato Soup?

Chicken Potato Soup is a creamy and comforting soup made with chunks of tender chicken, diced potatoes, and a variety of vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. The combination of protein-rich chicken and nutrient-packed potatoes makes this soup both filling and nutritious. The beauty of chicken potato soup lies in its simplicity—it uses pantry staples and can easily be customized with different ingredients and seasonings. Whether you're making a creamy version with added milk or cream, or keeping it light with a broth-based soup, chicken potato soup is versatile, tasty, and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients List for Chicken Potato Soup

To make a delicious pot of Chicken Potato Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless) or 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded).
• 4 medium potatoes: peeled and diced.
• 1 onion: finely chopped.
• 2 cloves garlic: minced.
• 2 carrots: peeled and chopped.
• 2 celery stalks: chopped.
• 4 cups chicken broth: low-sodium.
• 1 cup water: for adjusting the consistency.
• 1 cup milk or cream: for a creamy texture (optional).
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: for sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon thyme: dried or fresh.
• 1 bay leaf: for extra flavor.
• Salt and pepper: to taste.
• Fresh parsley or chives: chopped, for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Potato Soup is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re looking to change up the ingredients or accommodate specific dietary preferences, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or another plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Creamy vs. Brothy: If you prefer a lighter, broth-based soup, simply skip the cream or milk. For a richer, creamier version, you can add more cream, half-and-half, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Add More Vegetables: For a more vegetable-packed soup, try adding green beans, peas, corn, or spinach.
• Herb Substitutes: If you don't have thyme on hand, rosemary or oregano are great substitutes that pair well with chicken and potatoes.
• Bacon: For a smoky flavor, you can add crispy bacon bits to the soup either during cooking or as a garnish.

These small changes can completely transform the soup while keeping the core flavors intact.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to make this delicious Chicken Potato Soup. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a tasty and satisfying result.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the onions, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. If you're using raw chicken breasts, dice them into bite-sized pieces. If you're using pre-cooked chicken, shred it into small pieces and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic, as that can result in a bitter taste.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Potatoes

If you're using raw chicken, add the diced chicken to the pot and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. Once the chicken is browned, add the diced potatoes and stir to combine the ingredients.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Next, pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the vegetables and chicken are evenly distributed. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20–25 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through, and the potatoes will become tender.

Step 5: Adjust the Consistency

Once the potatoes are soft and the chicken is fully cooked, you can adjust the consistency of the soup. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher directly in the pot. For a creamier texture, stir in the milk or cream at this stage. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes after adding the milk or cream.

Step 6: Taste and Season

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Potato Soup, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Potatoes can become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness around the 20-minute mark.
• Undercooking the Chicken: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through. If you're using raw chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Don’t skip sautéing the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic! This step builds a base of flavor and is essential for a rich, tasty soup.
• Not Adjusting the Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs as needed. Soup often needs more seasoning than you might think.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Chicken Potato Soup is ready, let’s talk about how to serve and present it to make your meal even more enjoyable.

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

• With Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast on the side to dip into the soup.
• Topped with Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice, melty finish to your soup.
• With Crackers: For a classic pairing, serve your soup with oyster crackers or saltines on the side.
• Light Salad: A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Potato Soup

• Garnish with Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.
• Swirl of Cream: For a creamy presentation, drizzle a small swirl of cream or milk on top of the soup before serving.
• Croutons or Bacon: Add homemade croutons or crumbled crispy bacon for texture and flavor.
• Serve in Bread Bowls: Hollow out small round bread loaves and serve the soup inside for a fun and rustic presentation.

Chicken Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld.
• Freezing: Chicken potato soup freezes well. Store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be aware that if you added dairy, it might separate when reheating. In that case, reheat slowly and stir well.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat and add it to the soup once the potatoes are cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the soup. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs and follow the same cooking instructions.

Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. Add all the ingredients except for the cream or milk to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Stir in the cream or milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How Long Does Chicken Potato Soup Last in the Fridge?

This soup can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?

Yes, simply omit the milk or cream, or substitute it with a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

This Chicken Potato Soup is the perfect recipe for when you want a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With its tender chicken, soft potatoes, and savory broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the warmth and comfort of a bowl of homemade chicken potato soup!

Print