Chicken Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Chicken Potato Soup is the perfect choice. Loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, hearty potatoes, and a creamy broth, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for cozy nights or special gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish step by step!

Ingredients Overview

To create this delicious soup, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, rich in protein, adds a meaty flavor.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory note that enhances the soup’s taste.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion add sweetness, texture, and nutrients.
• Chicken Broth: A savory base that brings depth to the soup.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy finish to the soup.

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

• Hot Sauce: Adds a slight kick.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides umami flavor.
• Dried Herbs and Spices: Rosemary, oregano, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes add complexity.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• 4.5-quart soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cheese grater
• Ladle

Preparing the Ingredients

Prepping the Chicken and Bacon

1. Cook the Bacon: Slowly cook the bacon in your soup pot over low heat until it becomes crispy. Remove and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Chop into small pieces when cool.
2. Reserve the Drippings: Save 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings for added flavor in the soup. You can substitute with butter if needed.
3. Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sear it in olive oil over medium-high heat until a golden crust forms. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the soup.

Chopping Vegetables and Preparing Seasonings

1. Dice the yellow onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces for even cooking.
2. Mince the garlic cloves.
3. Measure out the seasonings: dried parsley, rosemary, oregano, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Bacon and Chicken

1. Cook the Bacon: Start by cooking the bacon in a large soup pot over low heat until crispy. This will render out the fat, which will be used to flavor the soup. Once the bacon is done, remove it from the pot and place it on a paper towel to drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of the drippings.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a bit of olive oil in the same pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides. The chicken will continue to cook in the soup, so don’t worry if it’s not cooked through. Remove and set aside to cool, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Soup Base

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the reserved bacon drippings back into the pot. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Seasonings and Flour: Stir in the garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning mix. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for another 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Adding the Potatoes and Final Touches

1. Incorporate the Broth and Potatoes: Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to incorporate the flour mixture. Add the half and half in the same way. Peel and cube the potatoes and add them to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
2. Cook the Soup: Return the chicken to the pot, including any juices that may have collected on the plate. Simmer the soup, partially covered, over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Finish with Cheese and Bacon: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add half of the chopped bacon, reserving the rest for garnishing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Bacon Drippings: These add incredible flavor to the base of the soup, so don’t skip this step.
• Not Cooking the Flour Enough: Make sure to cook the flour for at least 2 minutes to remove its raw taste.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes and test them frequently. You want them to be tender, not mushy.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Making the Soup Without Bacon

You can make this soup without bacon for a lighter version. Simply use butter or olive oil in place of the bacon drippings.

Using Different Types of Potatoes

Feel free to use red potatoes or russet potatoes as a substitute. Just note that russet potatoes may break down more, creating a thicker soup.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautiful presentation, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped green onions, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and the reserved crispy bacon pieces. Pair with a side of warm crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Best Ways to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Reheating Tips to Keep the Soup Fresh

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this hearty Chicken Potato Soup with a crisp green salad, a fresh fruit salad, or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Avoid pairing with alcohol for a family-friendly dining experience.

Chicken Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day!

Q: Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Absolutely! Substitute the half and half with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk for a lactose-free version.

Q: What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Chicken Potato Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will surely make it a family favorite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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