Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than this hearty potato chicken soup recipe! This classic dish is perfect for a chilly evening or any time you need a wholesome and satisfying meal. It's packed with flavor, incredibly versatile, and surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
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 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Add the broth and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, add the diced potatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the potatoes are cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Potato Chicken Soup:
- Use fresh herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme and rosemary instead of dried. Fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant and intense flavor.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as peas, green beans, or corn.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Potato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chicken Potato Soup: Stir in the juice of half a lemon at the end for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Chicken and Wild Rice Potato Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked wild rice along with the potatoes for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This potato chicken soup recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a comforting and flavorful experience without sacrificing time or effort. Enjoy this easy recipe and feel free to adapt it to your personal preferences!