Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup recipe is a delightful blend of creamy broth, tender potatoes, and juicy chicken. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a comforting meal, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or enjoying a bowl while curled up on the couch, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Comfort: The combination of half and half and cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that warms you from the inside out.
• Flavorful Broth: Turkey Bacon adds depth to the broth, infusing it with smoky flavors that elevate the entire dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making this recipe customizable to your taste preferences.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this comforting dish without hassle.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Chicken Potato Soup requires some essential kitchen tools that make the process smoother. Gather these items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking larger quantities of soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Silicone spatula: Helps scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot, enhancing flavor while preventing scratches on your cookware.

Ingredients

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

Protein & Broth

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

Vegetables & Seasonings

• Salt/Pepper
• 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

Base Ingredients

• 1/4 cup flour
• 5 cups chicken broth

Creaminess & Garnish

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

Dried 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 over low heat until crispy. This step adds a lot of great flavor to your broth. Once cooked, place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Reserve 2 tablespoons of drippings for later use.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in the same pot over medium-high heat and sear each side until golden brown, approximately 3 minutes per side. It’s fine if it’s not fully cooked as it will finish cooking later in the soup. Let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add reserved Turkey Bacon drippings back into the pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to clean any remnants from cooking the bacon off the bottom. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Stir in minced garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried herbs, and seasonings. Mix well to combine.

Step 5: Create Soup Base

Sprinkle flour into the mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes until you no longer smell raw flour. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 6: Incorporate Potatoes

Peel yukon gold potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Add them to your soup mixture along with seared chicken pieces. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to let simmer until potatoes are fork-tender (about 20 minutes).

Step 7: Final Touches

Once cooked through, lower heat further and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add half of chopped Turkey Bacon into the pot now; reserve remaining for garnishing when serving.

Garnish bowls with green onions before serving hot! Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Potato Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

Chicken Potato Soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you prefer something crunchy or a bit more filling, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough works perfectly to soak up the creamy broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for an added burst of flavor and color. These herbs complement the richness of the soup beautifully.

Add a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste. It’s also a great way to cool down the soup if it’s too hot.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the soup.

Garnished with Extra Turkey Bacon

• Top each bowl with additional crispy turkey bacon for added crunch and flavor. This makes for an appealing presentation.

With Pickles or Relish

• Adding pickles or relish on the side can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. Their acidity cuts through the richness nicely.

How to Perfect Chicken Potato Soup

Perfecting your Chicken Potato Soup takes just a few thoughtful steps. Follow these tips to enhance your soup-making skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs offer better flavor than their dried counterparts. Always opt for fresh when possible.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Taking time to sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they are softened adds depth to your soup’s base.
• Control Your Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings during cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Choose High-Quality Broth: The broth is crucial for flavor; use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer helps meld all flavors together. A longer simmer can enhance taste without sacrificing texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water gradually until desired consistency is achieved.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Potato Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its creamy goodness.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that goes well with every bite of soup.
2. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors in your soup.
3. Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread adds warmth and comfort, making it an ideal companion for chicken potato soup.
4. Vegetable Platter: A colorful selection of raw veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers offers crunch and freshness on the side.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty bites filled with grains and vegetables make for a filling addition that complements your meal nicely.
6. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese are perfect for dipping into the rich broth of chicken potato soup.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted sprouts add an earthy flavor profile that pairs well with creamy soups.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides sweetness and brightness, balancing out the savory elements of your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Many people overlook searing the chicken. Searing adds depth and flavor to the soup. Always take the time to sear until golden brown before adding it to the pot.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your soup bland. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and other seasonings for the best flavor.

• Adding Potatoes Too Early: If you add potatoes too soon, they may become mushy. Wait until the broth is simmering before introducing them for perfect texture.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold liquids or ingredients can slow down cooking. Always use room temperature or warm broth and dairy to help maintain even cooking temperatures.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Vegetables can lose their texture if overcooked. Add them in stages and monitor cooking times closely for a better bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chicken Potato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy identification later.

Reheating Chicken Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chicken Potato Soup that may help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef for a different flavor profile while maintaining similar cooking times.

How do I make Chicken Potato Soup creamier?

To enhance creaminess, add more half-and-half or use cream instead of half-and-half. You can also blend part of the soup for a thicker consistency.

What can I use instead of Turkey Bacon?

You can omit Turkey Bacon altogether, or use cooked chicken skin or a plant-based alternative if desired for added flavor without meat.

How long does Chicken Potato Soup last in the fridge?

Chicken Potato Soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with your choice of vegetables, use vegetable broth, and skip any bacon alternatives for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Potato Soup recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding different vegetables or herbs to create your own signature version!