This comforting chicken soup with potatoes is a savory hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights. It’s simple to prepare and embraces wholesome flavors that the whole family will love. You’ll savor every creamy, hearty spoonful, making this dish a must-have for cozy dinners.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Soup with Potatoes
Quick and Easy Preparation
You’ll appreciate how quick and easy this soup comes together. In just 45-55 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. The preparation takes only 10-15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy more time with family.
Nutritious and Satisfying
This soup is packed with nutrients. The combination of chicken, potatoes, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. With approximately 90-100 grams of protein and a delightful array of flavors, it’s perfect for a healthy lifestyle.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make this soup ahead for busy weeks, as it stores beautifully in the fridge and freezer. The flavors deepen over time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. It’s family-friendly, kid-approved, and ideal for leftovers!
Choosing the Right Potato Variety
Best Potatoes for Soup
When making chicken soup, the type of potatoes you choose matters. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent for a creamy texture. They hold their shape well, adding a hearty element to your soup.
Texture Considerations
Texture plays a vital role in your soup’s enjoyment. Russets can be used but may break down more easily, creating a different mouthfeel. Opt for firmer varieties for a delightful bite in every spoonful.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken Options
You can customize this soup by using chicken thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken. These options add richness and flavor, ensuring a delicious result every time.
Dairy Alternatives
If you prefer dairy-free options, any plant-based milk can be substituted for the whole milk. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy the comforting goodness of this dish.
Herb Substitutions
Fresh herbs elevate this soup’s flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch. Use dried thyme or rosemary to save time while still getting that comforting taste.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration Tips
Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to save some for later, cool the soup completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes might change upon thawing, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Reheating Methods
Reheat your comforting chicken soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Alternatively, you can use the microwave in one-minute intervals, adding a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Sautéing the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery for 7-8 minutes until softened and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Adding Chicken and Herbs
Next, stir in minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes. Then, add chicken breast pieces and cook until browned on all sides, ensuring a rich flavor base.
Thickening the Soup Base
Sprinkle flour over the mixture to help thicken the soup. Gradually pour in milk while stirring, creating a smooth and creamy consistency that’s oh-so-inviting.
Incorporating Potatoes and Broth
Add the cubed potatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Melting Cheese and Final Seasoning
Stir in the cheddar cheese until it melts, creating a luscious finish. Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference for a perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that warms the heart.
FAQs About chicken soup with potatoes
Can you put potatoes in chicken soup?
Yes, adding potatoes to chicken soup provides a hearty texture and enhances the overall flavor.
Why is chicken soup comforting?
Chicken soup is comforting due to its warm, soothing nature, nostalgic flavors, and the nutrients it provides.
How long can potato soup sit out?
Potato soup should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making potato soup?
Common mistakes include not properly sautéing vegetables, overcooking potatoes, and using too much liquid.
Related Recipes to try
- Chicken Tortellini Soup
- Sausage Potato Soup
- Creamy Potato Soup
- Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
- Comforting Potsticker Soup
Conclusion
This comforting chicken soup with potatoes is a delightful recipe that brings warmth and joy to your table. For more inspiration, check out Elly’s recipes on Pinterest. You’ll find a treasure trove of comforting dishes to try, perfect for any occasion!
Comforting Chicken Soup with Potatoes
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 1/2 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 3 sticks celery (finely diced)
- 1.5 lb potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 handful fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and finely diced)
- 20 g butter
- 1 cup low-fat cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 tbsp fresh thyme
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 7-8 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, rosemary, and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes before adding chicken breast pieces until browned.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stir to coat, and gradually pour in milk while stirring to create a smooth mixture.
- Add potatoes and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted, then add parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.