When the weather turns cold or you’re in need of a warm hug in a bowl, nothing hits the spot quite like a comforting chicken soup with potatoes. This hearty soup combines tender chunks of chicken, soft golden potatoes, aromatic herbs, and vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the kind of wholesome dish that brings warmth to your soul and nourishment to your body.
Whether you’re fighting off a cold, feeding the family, or just craving a rustic, home-cooked meal, this chicken and potato soup is your cozy go-to recipe.
🛒 Ingredients
This recipe is made with easy-to-find ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or raw chicken thighs/breasts, see note)
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness
- Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
🥣 Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 4–5 minutes until slightly tender and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in the potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, herbs, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
Step 3: Add Chicken
If using raw chicken, add it now and let it cook in the broth for 15–20 minutes until cooked through. Then remove, shred, and return to the pot.
If using pre-cooked chicken, add it after the soup has simmered for about 10 minutes and cook an additional 5–10 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Simmer and Taste
Let the soup simmer gently until the potatoes are fork-tender (usually about 20–25 minutes total). Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Finish with Optional Add-Ins
Add peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking if desired. Remove bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley for brightness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm rolls.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty lift.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Chicken & Potato Soup
✅ Comforting & hearty – perfect for chilly days or when you’re under the weather.
✅ Nutritious & balanced – packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✅ One-pot meal – easy cleanup with minimal effort.
✅ Kid-friendly & freezer-friendly – a win for busy households.
✅ Flexible – use leftover chicken or turkey, swap in different veggies, or make it creamy!
🔁 Recipe Variations
- Creamy Chicken Potato Soup: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk at the end.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with chopped cauliflower.
- Add Grains: Mix in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes for more bulk.
🥶 Storage & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let soup cool completely. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
- Reheat: Warm over medium heat. Add extra broth or water if the soup thickens too much in storage.
👩🍳 Helpful Cooking Tips
- Cut all veggies to a similar size for even cooking.
- For richer flavor, use a mix of white and dark chicken meat.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes—they should be tender but not mushy.
- Make it in a slow cooker: Add all ingredients (except peas and parsley) and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
❤️ Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a bowl of chicken soup—and when you add potatoes to the mix, it becomes even more satisfying. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and nourishing. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and sure to be a hit with the whole family.
So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and let this comforting chicken soup with potatoes warm you from the inside out.
