As the chill of winter settles in, there’s a simple comfort that can warm both the heart and soul: a steaming bowl of Loaded Chicken Potato Soup. I can almost hear the gentle bubbling of broth as I reminisce about preparing this dish after a long day. With its rich, creamy texture and harmony of flavors like crispy bacon, tender chicken, and buttery potatoes, this soup is everything you need on a cold evening.
It’s a recipe that not only satisfies the deepest cravings but also doubles as a nostalgic meal to relive family memories. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings, this hearty soup offers flexibility and ease, making it a fantastic choice when your days get hectic. Plus, it’s gluten-friendly, ensuring everyone at the table can indulge without a worry. So grab your ingredients and let’s dive into making a delicious bowl of comfort that will leave you counting the days until you can enjoy it again!
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
Comforting Delight: This soup combines familiar flavors that evoke warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly nights.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and minimal prep time mean you can whip this up even on busy evenings.
Hearty and Filling: With tender chicken and buttery potatoes, it’s a meal-in-a-bowl that leaves everyone feeling full and content.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, this dish never fails to impress and please all palates.
Customizable Options: Feel free to add veggies or switch proteins based on what you have on hand for a personalized touch.
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky flavor; substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Chicken Breast – A great source of protein; can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Potatoes – Acts as the thick base; russet or Yukon Gold are preferred for creaminess.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and depth; substitute shallots for a milder taste.
• Carrots & Celery – Forms the mirepoix for flavor; frozen mixed veggies can work in a pinch.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall seasoning; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be used if necessary.
• Hot Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce – Adds savory depth and a hint of heat; adjust according to your preference.
• Flour – Thickens the soup; essential for texture, use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
• Chicken Broth – The base liquid; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
• Half and Half – Provides creaminess; substitute with heavy cream for a richer soup.
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness and creaminess; swapping for Gruyere offers a different flavor profile.
• Herbs & Spices (Parsley, Rosemary, Oregano, Mustard Powder, Red Pepper Flakes, Bay Leaf) – Enhance flavor complexity; fresh herbs are vibrant, but dried works too.
• Green Onions – Perfect for garnish and fresh flavor; chives can be used for a milder taste.
How to Make Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
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Cook Bacon: In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove it from the pot, crumbling it once cool, and reserve the remaining bacon fat.
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Prepare Ingredients: While the bacon cooks, peel and dice the potatoes. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into small pieces for easy blending of flavors.
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Sear Chicken: In the same pot, add a little olive oil and sear the chicken breast for approximately 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the rendered bacon fat, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 5-6 minutes, until they soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Make Roux: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed veggies. Stir well and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken your soup.
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Add Seasonings: Mix in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, rosemary, oregano, bay leaf, and pepper. Stir to combine all the delicious flavors.
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Pour in Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Then, add the half and half, mixing until smooth and creamy.
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Incorporate Potatoes: Add your diced potatoes and the seared chicken back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
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Add Cheese: Once the potatoes are soft, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Add fresh parsley and half of the crumbled bacon. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon and sliced green onions for garnish. Enjoy the comforting warmth!
Optional: Serve with warm crusty bread for that perfect dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup Variations
Customize this comforting soup to delight your taste buds and fit your pantry essentials!
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Vegetable Boost: Add corn or peas for extra nutrition and a pop of color. These veggies bring a delightful sweetness to the mix.
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Sausage Swap: Substitute the chicken with cooked sausage or leftover turkey for a different protein profile. The savoriness will add depth to every spoonful.
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Creamy Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and replace chicken with chickpeas for a vegan-friendly alternative. You won’t believe how delicious this can be!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or increase the hot sauce for a zesty touch. This twist brings warmth that dances on the palate.
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Cheese Variation: Swap the cheddar for Gruyère or a sharp blue cheese for a new flavor profile. Each cheese transforms the soup into an entirely different experience.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor with fresh thyme or basil, which will add aromatic notes that bloom beautifully in the bowl.
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Texture Twist: For added crunch, sprinkle fried onions or crispy croutons on top before serving. This contrast adds an enjoyable bite to the creamy soup.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener to keep this dish gluten-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy its hearty warmth.
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen when reheated, making it even tastier!
Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, undercook the potatoes slightly to maintain texture upon reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth for the perfect consistency.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
- Chicken Timing: Avoid overcooking chicken by adding it back during the last stages of cooking, keeping it tender and juicy.
- Proper Potato Size: Cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes to prevent them from becoming mushy in your Loaded Chicken Potato Soup.
- Cheese Technique: Always add cheese off-heat to avoid a grainy texture—a smooth, creamy soup is the goal!
- Roux Cooking Time: Ensure you cook the flour for the full 2 minutes to eliminate any raw taste, leading to a rich soup texture.
- Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your taste preference; this soup is inviting to personal touches!
What to Serve with Loaded Chicken Potato Soup?
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup, but pairing can elevate your meal into something truly unforgettable.
- Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this fresh bread complements the soup’s creaminess while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Mixing greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers makes it vibrantly colorful.
- Cornbread: With its sweet and crumbly texture, cornbread is the perfect partner, soaking up every last drop of soup while enhancing your meal’s warmth. Consider serving it with honey butter for an extra touch!
- Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks add a delightful flavor element while providing a fun way to enjoy the broth.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings out the soup’s savory notes, balancing out the richness with their natural sweetness.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complements the flavors, enhancing your culinary experience with a touch of sophistication.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream; its delightful textures will leave everyone asking for seconds!
With these delightful pairings, your Loaded Chicken Potato Soup will shine even brighter, making every bite an irresistible experience!
Make Ahead Options
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors even on the busiest nights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and sear the chicken in advance, refrigerating them until you’re ready to finish the soup. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the veggies in the reserved bacon fat, add the remaining ingredients, and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. This way, you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal ready with minimal prep and just as satisfying as fresh!
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Loaded Chicken Potato Soup?
I recommend using russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture when cooked. If you prefer firmer chunks, red potatoes work beautifully as well. Just avoid using waxy potatoes, as they may not give you the desired creaminess.
How should I store leftovers of Loaded Chicken Potato Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gentle reheating is key—just warm it over medium-low heat, and the flavors will be even richer!
Can I freeze Loaded Chicken Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To maintain the right texture, consider undercooking the potatoes slightly. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently reheating.
Why is my Loaded Chicken Potato Soup too thick?
If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually until you achieve that perfect creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For gluten sensitivity, use gluten-free flour and make sure your broth is gluten-free as well. If you want to accommodate dietary needs for pets, be cautious with ingredients like onions and garlic, as they can be harmful to them. Always check for specific allergies with your ingredients too!
Can I customize the recipe based on ingredients I have on hand?
Of course! This soup is very forgiving and perfect for customization. You could add in frozen mixed vegetables, substitute chicken with leftover turkey or sausage, or even throw in some corn or peas for an extra nutrition boost. The more the merrier, after all!
Hearty Loaded Chicken Potato Soup for Cozy Nights
Equipment
- - Large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 6 slices Bacon Adds a crispy, smoky flavor; substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- 2 lbs Chicken Breast A great source of protein; can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 4 medium Potatoes Russet or Yukon Gold are preferred for creaminess.
- 1 medium Onion Brings sweetness and depth; substitute shallots for a milder taste.
- 2 medium Carrots Forms the mirepoix for flavor; frozen mixed veggies can work in a pinch.
- 2 stalks Celery Forms the mirepoix for flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall seasoning; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be used if necessary.
- 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adds savory depth and a hint of heat; adjust according to your preference.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Adds savory depth; adjust according to your preference.
- 1/4 cup Flour Thickens the soup; essential for texture, use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
- 6 cups Chicken Broth The base liquid; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
- 1 cup Half and Half Provides creaminess; substitute with heavy cream for a richer soup.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Adds richness and creaminess; swapping for Gruyere offers a different flavor profile.
- to taste Herbs & Spices (Parsley, Rosemary, Oregano, Mustard Powder, Red Pepper Flakes, Bay Leaf) Enhance flavor complexity; fresh herbs are vibrant, but dried works too.
- 2 stalks Green Onions Perfect for garnish and fresh flavor; chives can be used for a milder taste.
Instructions
How to Make Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
- In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove it from the pot, crumbling it once cool, and reserve the remaining bacon fat.
- While the bacon cooks, peel and dice the potatoes. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into small pieces for easy blending of flavors.
- In the same pot, add a little olive oil and sear the chicken breast for approximately 3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
- In the rendered bacon fat, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 5-6 minutes, until they soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed veggies. Stir well and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken your soup.
- Mix in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, rosemary, oregano, bay leaf, and pepper. Stir to combine all the delicious flavors.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Then, add the half and half, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Add your diced potatoes and the seared chicken back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the potatoes are soft, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Add fresh parsley and half of the crumbled bacon. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon and sliced green onions for garnish. Enjoy the comforting warmth!