Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than this classic chicken and potato soup recipe! This healthy and hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a weekend lunch. It's packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and best of all, it's surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this easy recipe and create a delicious homemade meal together.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step builds a delicious flavor base for your soup.
Build the soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, diced potatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving. Garnish with an extra sprig of parsley for an elegant touch.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Potato Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. Roasting the chicken before shredding it will add depth of flavor to your soup.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm potatoes.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn for extra nutrients and flavor. Consider adding a bit of spinach at the very end for extra vitamins.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
Variations:
- Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Add 1 cup of wild rice to the soup along with the potatoes. Increase cooking time as needed for the rice to cook through.
- Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a luxurious texture.
- Spicy Chicken and Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy chicken and potato soup recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and remember to adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. It's a versatile recipe that's perfect for meal prepping or enjoying a comforting bowl of soup on a busy weeknight. Happy cooking!