Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Introduction

Chicken Soup with Potatoes is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty, wholesome meal. The tender chicken and soft potatoes are simmered together with aromatic vegetables, creating a savory broth that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

I first made this soup on a cold, rainy day when I was looking for something simple yet comforting. The kitchen filled with a cozy, homey aroma as the soup simmered away. The best part about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can easily add in other vegetables or herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. Whether it’s carrots, celery, or a sprinkle of thyme, it’s the kind of dish that’s both soothing and adaptable.

This soup is incredibly easy to prepare, and the result is a comforting bowl of warmth that will fill you up and make you feel cozy inside. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system or just enjoy a satisfying meal, this Chicken Soup with Potatoes will hit the spot every time.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Cold weather
• Recovery from illness
• Meal prepping
• Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Here’s why Chicken Soup with Potatoes will quickly become a favorite:

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of tender chicken and potatoes makes this soup very filling, while still being light enough for any time of day.
• Flavorful Broth: The broth is rich and savory, with hints of garlic, onion, and herbs that add depth to the flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, you can create a nourishing meal that feels indulgent without being too complicated.
• One-Pot Meal: It’s a perfect one-pot dish that’s easy to prepare and clean up.
• Customizable: Feel free to add in extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or greens to make the soup your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Soup with Potatoes:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water with chicken bouillon cubes)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: The chicken provides lean protein that adds richness and depth to the soup.
• Potatoes: Potatoes give the soup its comforting, hearty texture while absorbing the flavors of the broth.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, olive oil enhances the flavor and makes the soup base aromatic.
• Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth as the base for the soup adds savory flavor and richness. You can use homemade broth or store-bought.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Thyme and bay leaves give the soup a fragrant, earthy flavor that complements the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
• Greens: Spinach or kale can be added for extra nutrition and color, though it’s optional.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Soup with Potatoes:

Prepare the Soup Base:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes: Stir in the cubed potatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
4. Add the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes, just to lightly brown the chicken.
5. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Cook:

6. Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
8. Optional Greens: If using, add the baby spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.

Finish and Serve:

9. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

How to Serve Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Chicken Soup with Potatoes is perfect for a variety of serving options:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette for dipping.
• With a Salad: Pair the soup with a light salad to create a well-rounded meal.
• For Comfort: Enjoy it on its own as a hearty, comforting dish.
• For Special Occasions: Serve it in a large pot at family gatherings or potlucks as a nourishing option.

Additional Tips for Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Soup with Potatoes is perfect every time:

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you prefer, you can use bone-in chicken for extra flavor in the broth. Just remove the bones before shredding the chicken.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or bay leaves on hand, they will add even more flavor to the soup.
• Avoid Overcooking Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes to ensure they don’t overcook and turn mushy.
• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add carrots, celery, or even peas to the soup for added texture and flavor.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a little heavy cream or milk just before serving.
• Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors only improve with time.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Soup with Potatoes:

• Chicken Soup with Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Lemon Chicken Soup with Potatoes: Add a splash of lemon juice and zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Chicken and Corn Soup: Add frozen or fresh corn kernels to the soup for a pop of sweetness and texture.
• Spicy Chicken Soup with Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Chicken Soup with Herbs: Use a variety of fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, and dill for added fragrance and flavor.
• Chicken and Rice Soup: Add cooked rice instead of potatoes for a different comforting texture.
• Creamy Chicken Potato Soup: Stir in some cream or half-and-half for a richer, creamier soup.
• Chicken and Leek Soup: Swap the onion for leeks for a milder, more delicate flavor.
• Chicken and Zucchini Soup: Add cubed zucchini for an extra veggie boost.
• Chicken and Barley Soup: Replace some or all of the potatoes with barley for a hearty grain-based soup.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Soup with Potatoes

• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Special Equipment for Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken Soup with Potatoes easier:

• Large Pot: A sturdy pot or Dutch oven works best for simmering the soup.
• Shredding Tools: Use two forks, a stand mixer, or a food processor to shred the chicken quickly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Ladles and Soup Spoons: For easy serving and enjoying your soup.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Soup with Potatoes

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just make sure to fully cook it through before shredding and adding it back to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the soup in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Can I add dairy?
   Yes, you can add dairy like milk or cream if you prefer a creamy soup.
4. How do I store leftover soup?
   Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze it for longer storage.
5. Can I use other vegetables in the soup?
   Absolutely! You can add carrots, celery, peas, or any vegetables you prefer.

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Conclusion

Chicken Soup with Potatoes is the ultimate comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. With tender chunks of chicken, hearty potatoes, and a flavorful broth, this soup is perfect for any occasion, from chilly evenings to busy weekdays. It’s a recipe that’s as versatile as it is comforting—add in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to create your ideal version.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making it in bulk for meal prep, this Chicken Soup with Potatoes will quickly become a cherished favorite. It’s simple, nourishing, and always hits the spot.

I’d love to see how your Chicken Soup with Potatoes turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your cozy creation. Happy cooking!