If you have ever craved a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug from the inside, then this Chicken Potato Soup is absolutely the answer. It combines tender bites of seared chicken, creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and just the right balance of herbs and seasonings to create a soul-soothing experience in every spoonful. This recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner, a fantastic way to use leftovers, or simply a delicious way to bring everyone together around the table on a chilly evening. The flavors develop beautifully, and the textures—from velvety broth to hearty chunks—make every bite satisfyingly memorable. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Potato Soup, it’ll become your go-to comfort meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Chicken Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Chicken Potato Soup lies in a simple yet thoughtfully chosen lineup of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the smoky depth bacon brings, to the creamy tenderness of Yukon gold potatoes, and the vibrant freshness of onions and celery. Together, they build layers of flavor and texture that transform an everyday meal into something truly special.

Thick cut bacon: Adds a smoky, savory richness that forms the flavor base of the soup.
Boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs: Provides lean protein and a tender texture once simmered.
Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and aromatics that soften as they cook, enhancing the broth.
Carrots: Offer a subtle sweetness and lovely color contrast in the soup.
Celery: Adds a slight crunch and depth with its savory tones.
Garlic cloves: Infuse the broth with a warm, fragrant flavor that brightens the dish.
Hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce: Give a little kick and umami complexity to the soup’s profile.
Flour: Helps create a luscious, slightly thickened broth that clings to every ingredient.
Chicken broth: The heart of the soup’s liquid, delivering rich, comforting flavor throughout.
Half and half: Adds creaminess and smoothness, making the soup irresistibly silky.
Yukon gold potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes that hold their shape and add fullness to the bowl.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup for a sharp, tangy note that enriches each bite.
Green onions: Fresh, crisp garnish that adds a bright finish.
Seasonings (parsley, rosemary, oregano, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes): Layer flavor complexity with herbal and slight spicy notes to round out the soup beautifully.

How to Make Chicken Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by slowly cooking thick cut bacon in a large soup pot over low heat. This gentle cooking renders flavorful bacon drippings and crisps the bacon perfectly. Once cooked, drain on a paper towel and reserve both the chopped bacon and 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings. These drippings are a golden treasure, packed with smoky flavor that will infuse the entire soup.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken generously with salt and pepper, then sear it in olive oil over medium-high heat until each side has a gorgeous golden crust, about 3 minutes per side. Don’t worry if the inside isn’t fully cooked yet, since it will finish in the soup later. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful depth of flavor to your Chicken Potato Soup.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Add the reserved bacon drippings back to the pot and use a spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery, allowing them to soften and release their sweet aromas for about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and your carefully measured seasonings. This is where the flavor layers start becoming truly irresistible.

Step 4: Thicken and Add Liquids

Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly so the raw taste cooks out, creating a velvety base. Gradually pour in the chicken broth in small amounts while stirring, scraping the pot to capture every bit of flavor left behind. Then add the half and half the same way for a creamy richness that makes this soup so luscious and comforting.

Step 5: Simmer Potatoes and Chicken

Peel and cube the Yukon gold potatoes, adding them to the pot along with the seared chicken pieces and any juices from the plate. Bring the soup up to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer, partially covered, for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and soak up all those delicious flavors. This slow cooking melds everything perfectly in the most satisfying way.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Bacon

Lower the heat and sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted into the creamy broth for a rich, tangy finish. Fold in half of the reserved chopped bacon for bursts of smoky crunch, saving the rest to garnish your bowls just before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup

Garnishes

The perfect finishing touch to your Chicken Potato Soup is a handful of finely chopped green onions for fresh color and crisp onion bite. Scatter the reserved crispy bacon pieces on top for that tempting smoky flavor that keeps each spoonful exciting. You can even add a little extra shredded cheddar or a swirl of cream if you want to amp up the richness.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or warm buttery biscuits that can be dunked into the broth. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds brightness to your meal. For a simple, satisfying dinner, these sides complement the Chicken Potato Soup perfectly without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chicken Potato Soup in rustic wooden bowls for a cozy vibe, or use colorful ceramic bowls to brighten up your table. For a fun twist, hollow out small sourdough bread bowls to make edible soup vessels that impress guests and add extra flavor. You could even top the soup with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs like thyme for that final gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Potato Soup is a lifesaver for busy days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, so you may find it even tastier the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to rediscover all those beautiful layers.

Freezing

If you want to keep the soup longer, it freezes beautifully. Spoon cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for cold nights or when you need a quick, nourishing dinner ready to heat.

Reheating

Reheat your Chicken Potato Soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or half and half if it seems too thick. This careful reheating ensures the chicken stays tender and the potatoes don’t turn mushy, keeping the soup as comforting as the first time you made it.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Potato Soup without bacon?

Absolutely! While the bacon adds wonderful smoky flavor, you can use butter or olive oil instead to sauté the veggies and still make a delicious soup. It won’t have quite the same richness, but it’s still hearty and satisfying.

What type of potatoes work best in Chicken Potato Soup?

Yukon gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking and have a naturally creamy texture that complements the soup beautifully.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier, making them a great option if you prefer a more tender, flavorful bite in your Chicken Potato Soup.

Is this soup spicy?

The recipe includes a little hot sauce and red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, but it’s not overly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat to your liking by reducing or omitting these ingredients.

How thick should the soup be?

The Chicken Potato Soup strikes a perfect balance—rich and creamy but still spoonable and broth-forward. If you like it thicker, add a bit more flour at the start or reduce the liquid slightly. For a lighter soup, thin it with extra broth or water when reheating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about enjoying a steaming bowl of Chicken Potato Soup made from scratch. It’s not just food—it’s an experience of warmth, love, and homey goodness all wrapped into one. I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll find a happy place on your recipe roster, ready to brighten even the coldest days. So grab those ingredients, put on your favorite cozy sweater, and dive into making this deliciousChicken Potato Soup—you won’t regret it!