Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is a comforting dish that combines creamy broth with tender potatoes and juicy chicken, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe offers rich flavors that satisfy everyone. The inclusion of Turkey Bacon adds depth without overpowering the chicken, creating a delightful balance in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Broth: The combination of spices and Turkey Bacon creates a rich and savory base that enhances the overall taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or use different types of cheese to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This Chicken Potato Soup stores well, making it an excellent option for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make your experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows ample room for ingredients to cook evenly while combining all flavors.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized and safe while chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all those flavorful bits into the 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.

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 1 small yellow onion (diced)
– ¾ cup carrots (diced)
– 2 ribs celery (diced)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup flour
– 5 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup half and half
– 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 in a large soup pot over low heat. For even cooking, consider cutting each strip in half. As it cooks, prepare your remaining ingredients. Once done, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

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 each side until golden brown, about three minutes per side. It’s fine if it’s not fully cooked; it will finish cooking in the soup.

Step 3: Make the Base

Return any Turkey Bacon drippings to the pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened for about five minutes. Then add minced garlic along with hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce; stir well to combine.

Step 4: Thicken Up

Sprinkle in flour and cook for two minutes until there’s no raw flour smell left. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 5: Add Potatoes

Cube Yukon Gold potatoes and incorporate them into the mixture. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently until the potatoes are fork-tender—about twenty minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

Lower heat further before mixing in shredded cheese until melted. Stir in half of your reserved chopped Turkey Bacon for added flavor, saving some for garnishing later. Serve warm with green onions on top!

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

Serving Chicken Potato Soup can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion and can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a loaf of freshly baked crusty bread. The bread’s texture is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up every delicious bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped green onions or parsley. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Pair with a light side salad made of mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette. The crispiness of the salad complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

With Grated Cheese on Top

• Sprinkle extra shredded cheese over the soup before serving. As it melts, it creates a delightful creamy layer that enhances the overall taste.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Potato Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also adds another layer of flavor as you enjoy the soft bread.

How to Perfect Chicken Potato Soup

Perfecting Chicken Potato Soup involves attention to detail and some simple techniques. Here are key tips for achieving the best results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken make all the difference in flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow sufficient time for each component to cook properly, especially when simmering to develop flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to personal preference.
• Control Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or half-and-half until your desired consistency is reached.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove for best results.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your soup with additional veggies or herbs based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Potato Soup can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread provides a flavorful complement that pairs well with the creamy soup.

2. Caesar Salad
   The crunchiness of romaine lettuce combined with creaminess from dressing makes it a refreshing side that balances out the warm soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts add depth and nutrition alongside your hearty soup.

4. Cheese Toasties
   Grilled cheese sandwiches are always a hit; their gooey interior pairs perfectly with the smooth texture of Chicken Potato Soup.

5. Cornbread Muffins
   Slightly sweet cornbread muffins are delightful when served warm; they provide a nice contrast to savory flavors in the soup.

6. Pickle Platter
   A selection of pickles or pickled vegetables adds an interesting tartness that cuts through the richness of the soup nicely.

7. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with rice, beans, cheese, or other fillings for a hearty addition that complements Chicken Potato Soup well.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that balances out the savory notes in your meal, making it an excellent side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes.

• Not seasoning adequately: Chicken Potato Soup needs proper seasoning for flavor. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If potatoes are cooked too long, they can become mushy. Add them to the soup when the broth is boiling and simmer until fork-tender.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the chicken and Turkey Bacon adds depth to your soup’s flavor. Take time to sear them well before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Cut all vegetables and chicken before starting. Preparing ahead makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold broth or cream can shock the soup, affecting texture. Warm them slightly before adding to the pot for a smoother result.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Potato Soup

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

Reheating Chicken Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about making Chicken Potato Soup.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Adding herbs like thyme or fresh parsley can enhance the taste of your Chicken Potato Soup. Consider adding some spices for more depth.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, corn, or any preferred veggies for added nutrition and texture in your Chicken Potato Soup.

How do I thicken my Chicken Potato Soup?

If you desire a thicker consistency, consider adding more flour or using a cornstarch slurry. You can also mash some of the potatoes directly into the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Potato Soup is both creamy and comforting, perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows customization based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try different variations and enjoy this delicious meal!