If you have been searching for a soul-warming, hearty dinner option, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Potato Soup Recipe. Every spoonful brings together tender shredded chicken, soft cubes of potatoes, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, velvety broth that feels just like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, designed to satisfy your cravings and bring a sense of homemade goodness to your table. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or craving a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and provide a comforting texture that every spoonful delivers. From the hearty potatoes to the aromatic herbs, every component plays a vital role in making this soup so irresistible.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables for a tender base.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Gives a subtle fruity flavor and helps sauté the aromatics evenly.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the soup’s broth.
- 2 carrots, diced: Contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Offer a delicate, earthy undertone and crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a gentle sharpness and warmth.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: The hearty star that thickens and nourishes the soup.
- 6 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid foundation packed with umami.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Adds protein and tender bites throughout the soup.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings a fragrant herbal note that elevates the soup’s complexity.
- ½ tsp paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a hint of smoky sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance flavors.
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture of the soup.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker soup): Helps achieve a luscious thickness if desired.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of green at the finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This soft vegetable base forms the heart of the soup, giving it depth and that comforting, home-cooked character.
Step 2: Add garlic and potatoes
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, add the peeled and cubed potatoes. These potatoes are essential because they will become tender and infuse the broth with their mild, creamy starchiness, perfectly complementing the chicken.
Step 3: Pour in broth and season
Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and potatoes. Add the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings bring warmth, herbal fragrance, and a touch of smoky depth. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat slightly to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the soup until potatoes are tender
Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the potatoes become tender and begin to break down slightly, naturally thickening the broth. Keep an eye on the pot to ensure it’s simmering gently, which lets all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken and enrich the soup
If you prefer a thicker soup, whisk the flour with the milk (or cream) until smooth and stir this mixture into the simmering broth. If you want it lighter or creamier, simply add the milk or cream directly. Then stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes so the chicken heats through and the soup develops its signature creamy texture.
Step 6: Final seasoning and garnish
Give the soup a taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top to inject a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness and adds a lovely visual appeal.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of fresh chives add a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy broth. For an extra touch, a swirl of sour cream or a handful of crispy bacon bits can add richness and texture, turning this comforting soup into a real showstopper.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or warm garlic rolls that are perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup’s creamy nature wonderfully, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to combine presentation and practicality. You can also ladle it over cooked grains like quinoa or barley for a heartier dish. Garnishing with a sprinkle of shredded cheese right before serving adds an indulgent finish that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your leftover Creamy Chicken Potato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the soup even tastier the next day. Just make sure to stir before reheating, as the potatoes tend to settle at the bottom.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully if you want to prepare batches ahead of time. Store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. For best results, omit the cream or milk before freezing and add them fresh when reheating to maintain a silky texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to prevent the dairy from separating. If the soup thickens too much after chilling, simply stir in a bit more broth or milk to loosen it up. Heat until warmed through and stir well before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! Russet potatoes tend to break down more and make the soup creamier, while Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better for a chunkier texture. Both work wonderfully depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk or cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk. Just keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor and texture but still keep it delicious.
How can I make this soup thicker without using flour?
If you want to avoid flour, you can simply mash some of the cooked potatoes with a spoon or potato masher directly in the pot. This natural method will thicken the broth beautifully.
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
You can, but you’ll need to add the raw chicken earlier in the cooking process and allow it to cook thoroughly in the broth. This method takes a bit more time and requires careful monitoring to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What herbs work well in this soup besides thyme?
Fresh or dried rosemary, sage, or a bay leaf can all add lovely herbal notes to your soup. Just adjust the amounts to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the vegetables and chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Potato Soup Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a comforting experience that warms your heart and fills your belly with wholesome goodness. Its easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients mean you can have a delicious, hearty soup on your table in no time. Grab your pot, gather your loved ones, and dive into this cozy bowl of yum today!
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Creamy Chicken Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This comforting Chicken Potato Soup is thick, hearty, and packed with tender chicken, tender potatoes, and fresh vegetables simmered in a creamy, flavorful broth. Ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup provides warmth and satisfaction, with a rich texture that is perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Seasonings and Thickener
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker soup)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat fat and sauté aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 5–6 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, releasing its aroma without burning.
- Combine potatoes and broth: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Thicken the soup (optional): If you prefer a thicker texture, whisk the all-purpose flour with the milk or cream to create a smooth slurry, then slowly stir it into the simmering soup to avoid lumps.
- Add chicken and creaminess: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and remaining milk or cream. Let the soup simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Final seasoning and garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Russet potatoes create an extra creamy texture as they break down more during cooking.
- Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better if you prefer chunks instead of a creamy consistency.
- The soup thickens as it cools; add extra broth or water when reheating to adjust consistency.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
