This Chicken Potato Soup is warm and comforting, packed with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and tasty veggies. It’s the perfect bowl for a chilly day or when you need a cozy pick-me-up!
I love to top mine with fresh herbs for extra flavor, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good soup that warms your soul? It’s super easy to make—just throw everything in and let it simmer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using shredded rotisserie chicken for its convenience. If you prefer cooking chicken, any boneless chicken breast or thighs work well. Also, turkey can substitute if you have some on hand!
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorites; they give a nice texture. You can swap them with sweet potatoes for a healthier twist and a different flavor.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and color. If you need to, frozen mixed vegetables can work as a substitute for carrots and peas combined.
Broth: Chicken broth is key for depth of flavor. If you want vegetarian, use vegetable broth! Homemade broth is always a delicious option too.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use milk or plant-based cream alternatives. Just keep in mind it might change the richness slightly.
How Do You Make Sure Your Soup Is Creamy Without Curdling?
To achieve a creamy soup without curdling, heat the cream gently after adding it to the pot. Avoid boiling after it’s added. Here’s how:
- Once the soup base is ready, reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half slowly while mixing gently.
- Warm it through for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally—don’t let it boil.
This method keeps the cream smooth and prevents it from breaking, giving you that luscious texture.
Chicken Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 4 slices bacon, chopped and cooked crisp
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy Chicken Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 40 minutes, you can have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook them until they turn translucent, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Once the onions are done, throw in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until you can smell that lovely aroma.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced carrots and potato chunks. Stir everything together and let them cook for a few minutes to start softening up the vegetables.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth. Toss in the dried thyme, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Bring this delicious mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat so the soup simmers. Let it cook until the potatoes and carrots are tender—this should take about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy the smells filling your kitchen!
5. Add Chicken, Peas, and Bacon:
It’s time to add in the star ingredients! Toss in the shredded chicken, frozen peas, and crispy bacon. Give it a good stir!
6. Stir in the Cream:
Finally, gently stir in the heavy cream, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes without boiling. This will make the soup beautifully creamy!
7. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
This Chicken Potato Soup is creamy, hearty, and perfect for cozying up on a cold day. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred it and add it during the last stages of cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a lactose-free alternative. Just remember that using lower-fat options might slightly alter the creaminess of the soup.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out as it may thicken overnight.
Can I Freeze This Chicken Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
