There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade chicken soup, especially when it’s filled with hearty pieces of potato. The flavor of tender chicken mingling with vibrant vegetables and soft, creamy potatoes creates a symphony of taste that can elevate even the gloomiest of days. This particular recipe for Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes is not only quick and straightforward but also embodies the essence of comfort food, making it a staple during chilly months. The focus keyphrase, “Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes,” reflects the simplicity and rich flavor inherent in this dish, allowing you to savor every spoonful.
Many of us are familiar with store-bought chicken soup, quick and easy, yet lacking in depth and character. However, this homemade version brings new life to an old favorite. Just imagine walking into your home on a cold evening, greeted by the delicious aroma of chicken, herbs, and vegetables simmering gently on the stove. In less than an hour, you will have a bowl of soul-soothing soup that is definitely worth the wait. Plus, with the added benefit of being budget-friendly and easy to prepare, this soup can be made time and time again, becoming a family favorite.
Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a quick, nourishing meal, this Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes is your answer. With minimal cleanup, you can focus on what really matters—enjoying delicious food with your loved ones. So grab your ingredients, and let’s create a classic dish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes
- Quick comfort food: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-pot meal: Achieve maximum flavor with minimal cleanup—everything cooks together for an effortless feast.
- Budget-friendly: Made using pantry staples and common vegetables, it’s easy on your wallet.
- Filling and nutritious: Lean protein, hearty veggies, and potatoes make this a complete and balanced meal.
- Meal prep friendly: The soup reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for lunches or quick dinners.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making your delightful chicken soup, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space. Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools to streamline your cooking process. Having everything ready means that your cooking experience will be smooth and enjoyable.
For this recipe, you’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, as it will be your trusty vessel for simmering the soup. A cutting board and a sharp knife are crucial for chopping your vegetables into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. A sturdy ladle will help you serve the soup with ease, while measuring cups and spoons will ensure the right quantities of seasonings.
Additionally, it’s beneficial to have a whisk on hand for smoothly mixing in the milk and flour. This tool helps to create a creamy texture without lumps. Lastly, don’t forget to have a wooden spoon for stirring; it promotes even mixing and keeps your pots scratch-free.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp flour
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir these vegetables together and let them sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the onions become translucent and aromatic. This step is critical as it builds the foundational flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Next, introduce the chicken breasts to the pot along with the rosemary and thyme. Pour in the chicken broth, allowing it to fully cover the chicken and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and cook for approximately 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. This is the perfect time to prep your potatoes!
Step 3: Incorporate the Potatoes
While the chicken cooks, wash and dice the potatoes into roughly one-inch cubes. After the chicken has cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, and add in the diced potatoes. Allow everything to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into the pot, ensuring you stir continuously to prevent the formation of lumps. As the soup simmers gently, it will thicken beautifully. If you prefer an even creamier texture, feel free to add more milk or a handful of shredded cheese at the end.
Step 5: Adjust Seasonings and Serve
Finally, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the warm chicken soup into bowls and enjoy it while it’s hot! The combination of tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and flavorful broth is simply irresistible.
Variations
- Protein: You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor, or use rotisserie chicken that you can add towards the end of cooking.
- Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies such as peas, green beans, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick, or try using fresh herbs like parsley for a fresh finish.
Cooking Notes
- Be mindful of cooking the chicken only until it reaches 165°F to prevent overcooking and drying it out.
- Uniformly chopping potatoes ensures they all cook at the same rate, giving you perfect tenderness across the board.
- Letting the soup simmer longer allows for flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing the overall taste.
- If you find your soup too thick, just add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your chicken soup with warm, crusty baguette or homemade biscuits to soak up the delicious broth.
- A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can complement the meal perfectly.
- For a classic twist, serve with grilled cheese sandwiches cut into strips for a fun dipping experience.
Tips
- Maximize the flavor by adding your vegetables slowly; this allows the onions and garlic to caramelize properly.
- Don’t rush the simmering time. This is when all the ingredients come together and the flavors develop fully.
- Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Freezing: For long-term storage, soup freezes well for up to three months. Just remember to leave space in the container for expansion!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for soup?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are excellent for making soup as they are lean and tender. Thighs provide a richer flavor, while breasts are classic and easy to shred.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze it for later enjoyment.
Can I use instant potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
While regular potatoes offer better texture, you can use instant potatoes. Just add them according to the package instructions after the other ingredients are cooked.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes is not only easy to make but also wonderfully satisfying. Each bowlful encapsulates the warmth and love often shared within families, making it a cherished recipe. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s night or during a casual family dinner, it’s bound to become a regular part of your meal rotation. Don’t hesitate to try variations, spice it up, or pair it with your favorite bread. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process! We hope you try this recipe soon and would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
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Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Homemade Chicken Soup with Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp flour
Instructions
- Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir these vegetables together and let them sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the onions become translucent and aromatic.
- Next, introduce the chicken breasts to the pot along with the rosemary and thyme. Pour in the chicken broth, allowing it to fully cover the chicken and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat to simmer.
- While the chicken cooks, wash and dice the potatoes into roughly one-inch cubes. After the chicken has cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, and add in the diced potatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into the pot, ensuring you stir continuously. As the soup simmers, it will thicken beautifully.
- Finally, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the warm chicken soup into bowls and enjoy it while it’s hot!
Notes
Let the soup simmer longer to enhance the flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 25 g