This warm and cozy Chicken Potato Soup is perfect for chilly days! Packed with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and fresh veggies, it’s both filling and tasty.
I love how it makes my kitchen smell amazing while cooking. Plus, it’s easy to make and everyone in my family enjoys a big bowl of it. What’s not to love about that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil or butter: Use olive oil for a lighter flavor, or butter for a rich taste. If you’re lactose intolerant, stick with olive oil. Coconut oil works too and adds a unique flavor!
Chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works perfectly. For a healthier option, choose low-sodium broth. Homemade veggie broth can also bring out different flavors.
Potatoes: I love using russet potatoes for their fluffiness, but Yukon Golds are great too! If avoiding starch, try cauliflower for a lighter option. Just cut it into smaller pieces to cook faster.
Cream: Go with heavy cream for a decadent soup. If you want to lighten it up, half-and-half or even whole milk can work. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk, but watch for sweetness.
How Can You Get the Best Flavor from Your Onion and Garlic?
Sautéing your onion and garlic is key for deep flavor. Don’t rush this step! The onions should turn soft and become slightly golden. It brings out their sweetness and enhances the dish’s overall taste.
- Heat the pot on medium, add oil or butter, then add onions. Cook for 4–5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic last, cooking for just 1 more minute. Garlic can burn quickly, which gives a bitter taste!
How to Make Chicken Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Potato Soup will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Add Carrots and Potatoes:
Next, toss in the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir everything well and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to let the flavors combine.
3. Pour in Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. Mix in Chicken and Seasonings:
Stir in the cooked chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to warm the chicken through and meld the flavors.
5. Finish with Cream:
Slowly stir the heavy cream or half-and-half into the soup, heating it gently without boiling for another 3 to 4 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh chives or parsley. Serve it alongside crusty bread or your favorite crackers for a complete meal.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Chicken Potato Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the chicken first. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or defrost it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. After thawing, simply cook the chicken as directed.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or cream if needed for consistency.
What Should I Do if the Soup is Too Thick?
If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, just add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and simmer for a few minutes to blend everything together.
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before placing it in the freezer!