Craving something warm, nourishing, and easy to make? This Chicken Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chunks of chicken, creamy potatoes, and flavorful broth. Whether you're battling a cold or simply want a cozy meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Plus, you can easily adapt it to your preferences, making it a versatile dish that your family will love. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious Chicken Potato Soup from scratch, and get all the tips to perfect this recipe every time.
What is Chicken Potato Soup?
Chicken Potato Soup is a classic, wholesome soup that combines tender pieces of chicken with chunks of potatoes, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The potatoes provide a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream, making it both hearty and healthy. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with various herbs, spices, and additional vegetables. This soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you're in the mood for something comforting and filling. With its nourishing ingredients, it’s a great one-pot meal that’s easy to make and loved by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients List for Chicken Potato Soup
To create this comforting Chicken Potato Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups cooked shredded chicken)
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for a creamier texture)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding any of the following optional ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin or coriander for earthy notes
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, added towards the end for extra nutrition
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits for a crispy, salty topping
- A pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a touch of brightness
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Potato Soup is its adaptability. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients:
- Chicken: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes work well in this recipe, each bringing its own unique texture and flavor.
- Broth: Vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian (if you omit the chicken, of course).
- Cream: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream.
- Herbs: Feel free to use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a brighter flavor, or add a bay leaf for additional depth.
- Vegetables: You can bulk up the soup by adding other veggies like zucchini, peas, green beans, or even corn.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions to make this hearty Chicken Potato Soup. Follow along to ensure you get a perfectly balanced and flavorful soup every time.
- Prep the Ingredients
Begin by chopping the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. If you’re using raw chicken, dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, shred or chop it into smaller pieces. - Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. - Cook the Chicken
If you’re using raw chicken, add the diced chicken breasts to the pot with the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned on all sides. - Add Potatoes and Broth
Toss in the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir to combine everything. Add the bay leaf and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. - Shred the Chicken (If Necessary)
If you used chicken breasts, now is the time to remove them from the soup, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the pot. If you used pre-cooked chicken, simply add it to the soup now and heat through. - Add Cream (Optional)
For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream or milk. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes on low heat to allow the cream to meld with the other ingredients. - Season to Taste
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavor. - Serve Hot
Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaf and serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
How to Cook Chicken Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s recap the steps for making this delicious Chicken Potato Soup:
- Sauté the vegetables until softened.
- Add chicken (if raw) and cook until lightly browned.
- Add potatoes and broth and simmer until the potatoes and chicken are fully cooked.
- Shred chicken if necessary and return it to the pot.
- Stir in cream for a richer texture (optional).
- Season and serve, garnished with fresh herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: If you’re using boneless chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Remove and shred the chicken as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Undercooking the potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before serving the soup. They should be tender but not falling apart.
- Not seasoning enough: Potatoes can absorb a lot of flavor, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the taste.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables first brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key to making your Chicken Potato Soup look as appetizing as it tastes. Here are some tips to elevate your soup’s appearance:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with crusty bread: A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Top with bacon bits: Crispy bacon bits or crumbled pancetta add both texture and a savory flavor to the soup.
How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup
Chicken Potato Soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion:
- As a starter: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer for a larger meal or dinner party.
- As a main course: Pair with a green salad and warm bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
- With toppings: Offer toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or croutons to allow your guests to customize their bowls.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Potato Soup
- Rustic bowls: Serve the soup in rustic ceramic or stoneware bowls for a cozy, farmhouse-style presentation.
- Bread bowls: For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls.
- Soup shots: If you’re hosting a party, serve the soup in small shot glasses or espresso cups for a creative appetizer option.
Chicken Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stove.
- Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher or blend a small portion of the soup before stirring it back in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Chicken Potato Soup?
Yes! Let the soup cool completely before freezing it in airtight containers. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove when ready to enjoy.
2. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can easily make this soup dairy-free by omitting the cream or substituting it with a plant-based milk like coconut or almond milk.
3. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a slight sweetness to the soup and work well with the savory chicken and broth.
4. How can I make the soup creamier?
For a creamier texture, simply stir in heavy cream, milk, or even half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
5. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup in the final 10 minutes to heat through.
Conclusion
This Chicken Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty potatoes, tender chicken, and flavorful broth into one delicious dish. With its simple ingredients and customizable nature, it’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you're looking to warm up on a chilly day or need a healthy and filling weeknight dinner, this soup has you covered. Don’t hesitate to try out the variations and tips to make this recipe your own. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Chicken Potato Soup today!
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Chicken Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This comforting Chicken Potato Soup recipe combines tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and flavorful vegetables for a filling, nutritious meal. Perfect for cold weather, this soup is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Loaded with protein, vitamins, and healthy carbs, it's both wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add the potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and return the chicken to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a creamier version, stir in a cup of milk or cream at the end.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
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