Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, it features tender chicken and crispy turkey bacon, making it a family favorite. It’s also versatile enough to serve on special occasions or as a weeknight dinner without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Delight: The combination of half and half with cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy soup that you’ll want to savor.
• Flavorful Broth: The addition of turkey bacon delivers a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and commonly available ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—it’s freezer-friendly too!
• Kid-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its comforting flavors and appealing texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Potato Soup effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in cooking efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without the risk of spills.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of your pot and stirring without scratching non-stick surfaces.

Ingredients

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

For the Soup Base

• 6 strips thick cut Turkey Bacon (plus 2 tbsp. Turkey Bacon drippings)
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
• Salt/Pepper
• 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (not needed if Turkey Bacon drippings are used)

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• ¾ cup carrots (diced)
• 2 ribs celery (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Thickening Agents & Broth

• 1/4 cup flour
• 5 cups chicken broth

Creaminess & Cheese

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

Final Touches

• Green onions (to garnish)
• 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: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting. This will save time during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook the Turkey Bacon in a large soup pot over low heat. Cut it in half for even cooking. Once cooked, set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to allow excess fat to drain. Reserve 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot for flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Season each side of your chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in the same pot. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides—about 3 minutes per side. Set aside once done.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add any remaining Turkey Bacon drippings back into the pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened—around 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings

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

Step 6: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle flour into the mixture while stirring continuously. Cook for about 2 minutes or until you no longer smell raw flour.

Step 7: Pour in Broth

Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Repeat this process with half and half until fully incorporated.

Step 8: Add Potatoes

Peel your potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes before adding them to the soup mixture. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.

Step 9: Return Chicken

Add back your seared chicken along with any juices from resting on the plate. Simmer partially covered until potatoes are fork-tender—about 20 minutes.

Step 10: Finish with Cheese

Lower heat further; stir in shredded cheese if desired. Mix half of your chopped turkey bacon into the soup while reserving some for garnishing later. Serve hot topped with green onions!

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

Serving Chicken Potato Soup is all about enhancing its comforting nature. Pair it with the right accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
• Cheddar Cheese: Add extra shredded cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.

Pair with Warm Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette to soak up the soup’s creamy broth.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors perfectly.

Create a Soup Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up a toppings station with ingredients like sour cream, diced avocados, and additional herbs.
• Bread Options: Offer different types of bread, such as cornbread or dinner rolls, for variety.

How to Perfect Chicken Potato Soup

To make your Chicken Potato Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings in small increments to achieve the desired flavor.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Searing the chicken creates a beautiful crust that adds depth to the soup.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer longer for more intense flavors; just keep an eye on the potatoes!
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Potato Soup enhances your meal. Here are some delightful options.

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side option that complements the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring warmth and earthy flavors to your plate.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese make for a comforting addition alongside the soup.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide an extra potato kick that pairs beautifully with Chicken Potato Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Potato Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some to watch out for:

• Ignoring the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the chicken and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust the seasonings as you go.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and check for tenderness after about 20 minutes of simmering.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold chicken broth can shock the cooking process. Warm your broth before adding it to help maintain even cooking.
• Not letting the soup rest: Serving soup immediately might not allow flavors to meld. Letting it sit for a few minutes enhances the taste.
• Skipping the turkey bacon drippings: While you can omit Turkey Bacon, using its drippings adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step if possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Potato Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Chicken Potato Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

Can I use different types of meat in Chicken Potato Soup?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if preferred. Adjust cooking times as needed based on meat type.

How do I thicken Chicken Potato Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour or use a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Stir it in while simmering.

What vegetables can I add to Chicken Potato Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to make Chicken Potato Soup?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Potato Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture combined with tender chicken and flavorful seasonings makes it a delightful meal that is easy to customize. Add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!