If you're in the mood for a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of the year, look no further than chicken potato soup. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and a flavorful broth to create the perfect comfort food. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to serve at a family gathering, this chicken potato soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Keep reading for the full recipe, tips on making it, and variations that will suit your taste buds.
What is Chicken Potato Soup?
Chicken potato soup is a delicious, creamy dish made with tender chicken, soft potatoes, and a flavorful broth, often enhanced with vegetables, herbs, and spices. It's a classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something filling but not too heavy. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adapted to different dietary preferences. From traditional homestyle versions to variations that incorporate dairy-free or low-carb options, chicken potato soup is a go-to meal that satisfies cravings for something warm and savory.
Ingredients List for Chicken Potato Soup
To make this simple yet flavorful chicken potato soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, or substitute with thighs for a richer flavor)
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best for their creamy texture)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
These ingredients will yield a hearty, creamy soup that serves about 4 to 6 people.
Ingredients List for Chicken Potato Soup (Dairy-Free Version)
For a dairy-free variation of this chicken potato soup, simply swap out the heavy cream for non-dairy alternatives and adjust seasonings as necessary. Here are the modified ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup coconut milk (for creaminess without dairy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
By using coconut milk or other non-dairy alternatives, you can still achieve a rich and creamy texture without the use of dairy products.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best aspects of chicken potato soup is its versatility. If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or prefer a different twist, here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:
- Chicken: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use boneless chicken thighs for a more flavorful and juicy result. Leftover rotisserie chicken is also a quick substitute.
- Potatoes: Swap Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for sweet potatoes or red potatoes to change up the flavor and texture.
- Broth: For added richness, use homemade chicken broth or bone broth. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with vegetable broth and omit the meat.
- Cream: If you're avoiding dairy, use coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. You can also skip the cream altogether for a broth-based soup.
- Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, green beans, or corn to make the soup even more hearty and nutritious.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, it’s time to cook this delicious chicken potato soup! Follow these simple steps to create a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Prep the Ingredients: Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes, chopping the onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Set them aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pot, shred or chop into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Potatoes and Broth: Once the vegetables have softened, add the diced potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend (Optional): If you want a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. Be careful not to over-blend; you want some chunks of potato and veggies for texture.
- Add the Chicken and Cream: Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot and add the heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free). Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!
How to Cook Chicken Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, quality ingredients are key to achieving the best flavor. Use fresh herbs if possible, and make sure your chicken is tender and juicy.
- Layer the Flavors: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth ensures the flavors develop fully. Be sure not to skip this step!
- Blend Wisely: If blending the soup for creaminess, avoid over-blending to maintain texture. You want to achieve a balance between creamy and chunky.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to infuse the flavors, but be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Potatoes can become mushy if left simmering too long. Check them frequently to ensure they are tender but still hold their shape.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Don’t skip sautéing the vegetables. This step brings out the natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Soup can be bland without enough seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is a major component of the soup’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality chicken broth or make your own.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving your chicken potato soup beautifully will enhance the dining experience. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with a warm, crusty bread like a baguette or sourdough for dipping.
- Bowls: Serve in deep bowls to keep the soup warm longer and enhance the cozy, comforting vibe.
How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup
Serve chicken potato soup piping hot, ladling it into deep bowls for a rustic, hearty presentation. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream on top for extra richness. For a meal, pair with a fresh green salad and some toasted garlic bread.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken Potato Soup
- Rustic Wooden Bowls: Serving soup in rustic wooden bowls creates a homey, inviting presentation.
- Mini Soup Bowls for Starters: If serving as a starter, ladle the soup into mini bowls or mugs for an appetizer-sized portion.
- Add Croutons: Top with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of crispy bacon for texture and flavor contrast.
Chicken Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well and can be made ahead. Just reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
- Thickening the Soup: For an even thicker soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream at the end. - Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Add leftover cooked chicken in the last 10 minutes of simmering to heat it through without overcooking. - Can I freeze chicken potato soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be aware that the potatoes may change texture slightly after freezing.
Conclusion
Chicken potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor, warmth, and nutrition. Whether you're making the classic version or a dairy-free alternative, this recipe is both versatile and easy to prepare. Serve it on a cold day, at a family gathering, or whenever you're craving something hearty and wholesome. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Potato Soup Recipe
This Chicken Potato Soup recipe is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any meal. It's loaded with tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and a mix of vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. Great for a quick weeknight dinner or when you need something warm and filling. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up this soup in no time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add diced chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk or cream and let the soup heat through for another 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- If you like a creamier soup, mash some of the potatoes before serving.
- This soup can also be made in a slow cooker—just add the ingredients and cook on low for 6 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
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