As the chilly winds start to blow and cozy blankets emerge from their summer hibernation, my heart craves a dish that wraps me in warmth—like a hug from the inside out. Enter my Hearty Creamy Chicken Potato Soup! On those cold evenings when comfort food feels like a necessity, this creamy concoction of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and vibrant vegetables comes to the rescue.
I discovered this recipe during one of those bustling autumn afternoons when I longed for something special but required the simplicity that my busy schedule demanded. The rich aroma of fresh garlic mingling with herbs as it simmers on the stove transforms my kitchen into a sanctuary—an inviting retreat that promises to nourish both body and soul. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to everyone from busy parents looking to please their kiddos to seasoned chefs wanting to experiment with flavors.
So grab your apron, and let’s whip up a bowl of comfort that will keep you coming back for more!
Why is Chicken Soup with Potatoes so comforting?
Creamy goodness: Sink your spoon into a bowl of warmth, where tender chicken blends perfectly with soft potatoes, creating a delightful creamy texture.
Kid-friendly delight: This soup is a hit with children, making meal times a breeze for busy parents.
Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the potato type to make it your own!
Time-efficient: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s the perfect answer to hectic weeknights.
Nourishing tradition: Enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings.
Discover why this Chicken Soup with Potatoes will become a staple in your home!
Chicken Soup with Potatoes Ingredients
• A creamy blend of flavors awaits!
For the Soup Base
- Chicken Breast – A main protein source that infuses robust flavor; substituting with thighs adds extra moisture.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, they retain their shape well; red potatoes are a great substitute if needed.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; it helps prevent the butter from burning, but feel free to use a high smoke point oil instead.
- Butter – This adds richness and depth to the soup base.
- Onion – An aromatic foundation; sauté for sweetness; shallots can be a milder swap.
- Carrots and Celery – The classic mirepoix brings flavor and nutrition; feel free to adjust the quantities to your taste.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds wonderful depth to the dish; garlic powder works in a pinch!
- Dried Herbs (Rosemary and Thyme) – They flavor the broth beautifully; fresh herbs can be swapped in for a fresher taste.
For Thickening
- Plain Flour – This thickens the soup perfectly; cornstarch can replace it for a gluten-free version.
For Creaminess
- Milk – Adds a creamy texture; alternative milks can be used for a dairy-free soup.
- Low-Fat Cheddar Cheese – Mixes in for richness; add at the end to avoid curdling.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; it’s optional if you have none on hand.
For the Base Liquid
- Chicken Stock – Amplifies flavor; use either homemade or your favorite low-sodium store-bought option.
Jump into making this Chicken Soup with Potatoes and elevate your mealtime experience!
How to Make Chicken Soup with Potatoes
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Heat the Base: In a large pot, combine butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted. This blend will prevent the butter from burning while encouraging flavor development.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Aromatic veggies like these build a delicious foundation for your soup.
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Add Flavor: Stir in minced garlic and dried herbs, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will add depth and aroma that envelops the kitchen in warmth.
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Brown the Chicken: Incorporate the chicken breast pieces into the pot, browning them on all sides. This step adds a lovely layer of flavor to your soup base.
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Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle flour evenly over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything well. This will help create a nice thickness in your final soup.
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Pour the Creaminess: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring, ensuring a smooth mixture. This step prevents lump formation and promotes that creamy texture we all love.
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Combine Potatoes and Stock: Add diced Yukon Gold potatoes and chicken stock, scraping the pot’s bottom for delicious flavor bits. This will enrich the soup and help everything come together.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender. You’ll know it’s ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork.
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Finish with Cheese: Stir in the low-fat cheddar cheese until melted, then season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. This step transforms your soup into a creamy, cheesy delight!
Optional: Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Soup with Potatoes
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Sauté Slowly: Take your time when sautéing vegetables; this builds a rich flavor base that enhances your chicken soup.
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Uniform Potato Sizes: Cut potatoes into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and contribute to the creamy consistency.
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Proper Chicken Cooking: Remove chicken from the pot once it reaches 165°F to prevent dryness, then shred before returning it to the soup.
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Lump-Free Creaminess: Add milk slowly while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps, creating that deliciously creamy texture we crave in chicken soup with potatoes.
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Adapt with Ease: Experiment by swapping in different potato types or adding seasonal vegetables; this soup is designed to be deliciously adaptable!
Chicken Soup with Potatoes Variations
Customize your cozy creation with these delightful twists that are sure to spark joy in every bowl!
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Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh, vibrant touch. These greens not only enhance your soup’s nutrition but also add beautiful color.
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Creamy Bliss: For a richer taste, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. This will elevate the creaminess, making each spoonful feel like a warm hug from within.
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Herb Swap: Try using fresh dill or parsley instead of rosemary and thyme for a brighter, more aromatic flavor. Fresh herbs can truly transform the essence of your soup.
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Heat it Up: If you love spices, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage for a little kick. The warmth will complement the comforting flavors beautifully.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese along with the cheddar for an even deeper flavor profile. The nutty taste will add complexity that everyone will adore.
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Pasta Addition: Stir in cooked pasta during the last few minutes of simmering for a heartier meal. It’s an excellent way to turn your soup into a complete dish that’s wonderfully filling.
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Nutty Flavor: Swap out the regular olive oil for toasted sesame oil. This will add an intriguing nutty note that will surprise and delight the taste buds.
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Curry Twist: For an unexpected flavor change, incorporate a tablespoon of curry powder during the sauté phase. It brings an exotic spice that refreshes the classic comfort of chicken soup.
With these variations, your Chicken Soup with Potatoes is not just a recipe; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity! Enjoy experimenting!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Soup with Potatoes
Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This chicken soup with potatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup has thickened, adding a splash of broth or water can restore its creamy consistency.
Note: Milk may separate during freezing, so whisk well while reheating for the best texture.
What to Serve with Chicken Soup with Potatoes?
Cozy up your meal with a delightful complement to this creamy bowl of warmth, creating the perfect dining experience.
- Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, the crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, making each bite a delight.
- Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, these biscuits provide a comforting touch, ideal for soaking up every last drop of soup.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp texture, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crunchy, they bring a pop of color and fresh flavor to the table, enhancing the overall meal.
- Herbed Rice: A warm, fluffy rice dish seasoned with herbs offers a wonderful texture and helps absorb the delicious soup’s flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and savory, garlic bread adds a delightful zest that pairs wonderfully with the comforting chicken soup.
- Mature Cheddar Cheese Platter: Serve alongside strong cheeses for those who enjoy a savory touch; this can heighten the cheese experience in the soup as well.
- Warm Apple Crisp: For dessert, the sweet and tart apple crisp is a cozy ending that complements the comforting notes of the soup.
Enjoy mixing and matching to create the perfect comforting feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Creamy Chicken Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop your vegetables (onions, carrots, and celery) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook and shred the chicken up to 3 days ahead, keeping it refrigerated until you’re ready to finish the soup. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the chicken and follow the remaining steps. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of chicken soup with potatoes that feels just as rich and delightful as if it were freshly made!
Chicken Soup with Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Chicken Soup?
I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. If you prefer, red potatoes are a great substitute. Just keep in mind that if you’re using russet potatoes, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
How long can I store Chicken Soup with Potatoes in the refrigerator?
You can keep your chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the soup is cooled completely before sealing it to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Chicken Soup with Potatoes?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What should I do if my chicken soup is too thick after freezing?
No worries! If your soup has thickened during freezing, reheat it on low heat and stir frequently. You can easily restore its creamy consistency by adding a splash of chicken broth or water as needed until it reaches your desired thickness.
Is this Chicken Soup safe for pets?
While the ingredients in this soup are safe for most humans, it’s best to avoid feeding it to pets, as ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to them. Always consult your veterinarian for specific dietary questions related to your furry friends!
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
You can substitute plain flour with cornstarch to thicken the soup, making it a gluten-free option. Simply mix equal parts cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup at the same step you would add the flour. This will allow you to enjoy the same thick and creamy texture without gluten.
Creamy Chicken Soup with Potatoes for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and dried herbs, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate the chicken breast pieces into the pot, browning them on all sides.
- Sprinkle flour evenly over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat.
- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring, ensuring a smooth mixture.
- Add diced Yukon Gold potatoes and chicken stock, scraping the pot’s bottom.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the low-fat cheddar cheese until melted, then season with salt and pepper.
- Optional: Top with freshly chopped parsley before serving.