Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With a creamy broth, tender potatoes, and juicy chicken, this soup is packed with flavor that warms your soul. The addition of turkey bacon adds a delightful smoky note without overpowering the dish. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, this Chicken Potato Soup will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling – This Chicken Potato Soup is loaded with ingredients that keep you satisfied, making it a great main dish.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Customizable Flavors – Feel free to adjust seasonings or add extra vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers – This soup tastes even better the next day! Enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot – A spacious pot allows for even cooking and plenty of room to stir without spills.
• Sharp knife – A good knife ensures precise cuts for vegetables and chicken, speeding up your prep time.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.

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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 Base

• 6 strips thick cut Turkey Bacon (plus 2 tbsp. Turkey Bacon drippings)
• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
• Salt/Pepper

Vegetables & Aromatics

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

Liquids & Thickeners

• 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (not needed if Turkey Bacon drippings are used)
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• ¼ cup flour

Seasonings & Garnishes

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ lbs. yukon gold potatoes (or red potatoes)
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 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: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook the turkey bacon slowly over low heat in a large soup pot. Cut the bacon in half for even cooking. Once crispy, set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the drippings.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in the same pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on each side, about 3 minutes per side. It’s fine if it’s not fully cooked at this point as it will finish cooking later. Let it rest before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Soup Base

Add turkey bacon drippings back into the pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any remnants from cooking the bacon; these add great flavor. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in minced garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings. Mix well to combine everything before adding flour.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth and Cream

Sprinkle flour into the mixture and cook for another 2 minutes to eliminate raw flour smell. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Follow with half-and-half in small splashes while mixing.

Step 6: Add Potatoes and Simmer

Peel yukon gold potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes before adding them to the pot. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to let it simmer partially covered for about 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once cooked through, lower heat further before sprinkling in shredded cheese if desired. Stir in half of the chopped turkey bacon; reserve some for garnish when serving. Top with green onions before enjoying your delicious Chicken Potato Soup!

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is a warm and hearty dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Fresh Thyme – A few sprigs of thyme add an aromatic touch that pairs well with the soup.

With Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – Add extra cheddar cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Croutons – Crunchy croutons provide texture and contrast against the creamy soup.

With Accompaniments

• Warm Bread Rolls – Serve with soft bread rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• Salad – A light green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Chicken Potato Soup

Creating the perfect Chicken Potato Soup involves attention to detail and some helpful techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making skills.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and chicken provide better flavor compared to frozen or canned options.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly – Take your time sautéing onions, carrots, and celery to develop their natural sweetness.
• Control Your Heat – Maintain medium heat while cooking; too high can scorch ingredients, while too low may not cook them properly.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually – Taste as you go; this allows you to adjust salt and spices to achieve the best flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Potato Soup

Pairing Chicken Potato Soup with complementary side dishes can create a fulfilling meal. Here are some tasty options that work wonderfully with this comforting soup.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad – This classic salad brings crunchiness and bold flavors, making it a great accompaniment.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
4. Cheesy Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese are excellent for soaking up every drop of soup.
5. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans provide a hearty side option that complements the soup well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Potato Soup, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect soup.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can hinder the cooking process. Always use room temperature chicken and vegetables for even cooking.
• Skipping the sauté step: Skipping the sauté of vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Sautéing enhances the taste by caramelizing the onions and garlic.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning is a common mistake that results in bland soup. Taste throughout the cooking process and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Ignoring potato variety: Using the wrong type of potatoes can affect texture. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for a creamy consistency; avoid starchy varieties like Russets.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking chicken can make it tough. Remember, it will continue cooking in the soup, so remove it from heat while still slightly underdone.
• Not letting it simmer enough: A short simmer time can leave potatoes too firm. Allow at least 20 minutes for them to become tender and absorb flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store Chicken Potato Soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh and prevent contamination.

Freezing Chicken Potato Soup

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Chicken Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Potato Soup without Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can omit Turkey Bacon if desired. The soup will still be delicious; just add extra seasonings for flavor.

How do I customize my Chicken Potato Soup?

You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like corn or peas, or using different types of cheese for varied flavors.

What is the best way to thicken Chicken Potato Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry made from flour mixed with water before simmering.

Can I use leftover chicken for this Chicken Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time and adds extra flavor to your soup.

How long does it take to make Chicken Potato Soup?

The total time is around 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time—perfect for a hearty meal!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Potato Soup is not only creamy and comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheeses based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!