There’s something downright comforting about a bubbling pot of soup on a chilly day. As the savory aroma of chicken and bacon wafts through my kitchen, it takes me back to family gatherings where warmth and laughter filled the air. This Loaded Chicken Potato Soup is my go-to recipe when I’m in need of a hearty meal that brings everyone together. With creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, each spoonful feels like a warm hug, perfect for cozy nights in or when welcoming guests.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility; you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re dealing with a busy weeknight or planning for a snowy weekend, this soup is the answer to comfort food cravings. Prepare to savor not just the taste, but the joy of cooking something wholesome that feels like home!
Why is Loaded Chicken Potato Soup so special?
Irresistible warmth: There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of soup to create cozy moments with loved ones.
Flavor-packed goodness: The blend of chicken, bacon, and rich potatoes strikes a delightful balance that excites every palate.
Simple substitutions: This recipe allows for ingredient swaps, making it adaptable for different tastes or pantry finds.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
Effortless make-ahead option: Perfect for meal prep, it keeps well, and flavors develop beautifully overnight—ideal for busy days ahead!
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Bacon – Adds a smoky flavor and delicious crunch; substitute with turkey bacon for a healthier option.
• Chicken Breast – Provides protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken makes for a quick alternative.
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and aids in cooking; vegetable oil can work in a pinch if needed.
• Butter – Brings richness to every spoonful; margarine is a suitable swap if you’re out of butter.
• Onion – Delivers a sweet base flavor; yellow or red onions are great, while shallots can serve as a substitute.
• Carrots & Celery – Contribute natural sweetness and appealing texture; feel free to swap with other root vegetables if on hand.
• Garlic (freshly minced) – Elevates the taste profile; garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic isn’t available.
• Potatoes (Russets or Yukon Gold) – Essential for that creamy soup texture; red potatoes can be used, although they’ll stay chunkier.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the soup’s base; you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Half and Half – Adds creaminess to the dish; consider heavy cream or a non-dairy milk for a lighter touch.
For the Flavor Enhancers
• Cheddar Cheese – Provides richness and creaminess; any melting cheese, like Monterey Jack, works well, even dairy-free options.
• Seasonings (hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, rosemary, oregano, red pepper flakes) – Enhance the overall flavor; adjust according to personal preference, but these will really lift the Loaded Chicken Potato Soup!
• Bay Leaf – Infuses aromatic notes; if you don’t have it, Italian herbs can add a delightful twist.
For the Garnish
• Green Onions – Used for a fresh topping; chives are a lovely alternative if you’re out of green onions.
How to Make Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and reserve the drippings to add incredible flavor to your soup.
Prepare the vegetables: Dice the potatoes into ½-inch cubes, chop the carrots and celery, and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic and cut the chicken into 1-inch chunks, setting everything aside for easy cooking.
Brown the chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and brown for about 3 minutes on each side until golden. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest so it stays juicy in the soup.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot with the bacon drippings, melt the butter. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
Make the roux: Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes to remove the raw taste, which helps thicken your soup beautifully.
Add liquids and seasonings: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Follow up by mixing in the half and half and ensure everything is well combined.
Cook the potatoes and chicken: Incorporate the diced potatoes and the seared chicken into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Finish the soup: Remove the bay leaf, stir in the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon until everything is melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired to ensure deliciousness.
Serve and garnish: Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish generously with green onions for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with warm crusty bread for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Loaded Chicken Potato Soup?
Enjoying a bowl of creamy goodness goes hand in hand with delightful sides that enhance the experience.
Crusty Bread: This rustic bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up every drop of that rich soup. Each bite is a textural treat.
Simple Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the heartiness of the soup beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are great for sopping up the creamy soup, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits offer a cheesy twist and are a delightful accompaniment, enhancing the soup’s flavors.
Pickled Vegetables: Adding a tangy crunch, pickled veggies can brighten up the flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the soup.
Homemade Cornbread: A sweet and buttery side that complements the soup’s savory notes—perfect for cozy afternoons.
Herbal Tea: A warming cup of herbal tea completes the meal with a soothing touch, making the whole experience feel extra comforting.
Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with this warm dessert; the spiced apples and crunchy topping create a lovely contrast to the soup.
Each of these suggestions rounds out the meal, making your dinner table a warm gathering of flavors that feels like home.
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Loaded Chicken Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen and improve overnight!
Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. For best results, slightly undercook the potatoes before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating: Thaw the soup in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Stir until warmed through before serving.
Avoiding Texture Change: When reheating, avoid boiling to keep the creamy consistency intact. Aim for a gentle simmer instead.
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with this warm and hearty dish, turning every bowl into something uniquely yours!
Vegetable Boost:
Add in fresh corn or spinach for a pop of nutrition and color. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also elevate the visual appeal.Meat Switch:
Swap the chicken for diced ham or crumbled sausage to explore different savory profiles. Each variation brings its own delicious twist, making the dish exciting every time!Spicy Kick:
Toss in diced jalapeños or an extra hit of red pepper flakes for a delightful heat. It’s a simple way to take comfort food to a whole new spicy level!Creamy Twist:
Use sour cream instead of half and half for a tangy creamy texture that adds a unique flavor dimension to the soup.Cheese Choices:
Experiment with different melting cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a rich, gooey finish. You’ll notice how the cheese transforms the entire experience.Herb Infusion:
Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be stirred into the soup just before serving to elevate the aromatic delight. The fragrant addition will awaken your senses!Earthy Flavors:
Incorporate mushrooms for a hearty, umami flavor boost. Sauté them with the vegetables for an extra depth that complements the chicken beautifully.Nutty Goodness:
Add a handful of toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts as a garnish for added crunch and rich flavors. This unexpected twist will surprise your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Loaded Chicken Potato Soup
Don’t Rush the Chicken: Add chicken back towards the end of cooking to avoid rubbery texture; this keeps it tender and juicy.
Uniform Potato Sizes: Cut potatoes into ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Uneven sizes may result in a gummy texture in the loaded chicken potato soup.
Add Cheese Off-Heat: To prevent separation, stir in cheese after removing the pot from the heat, creating a velvety finish.
Thoroughly Cook the Roux: Spend at least 2 minutes cooking the flour to eliminate any raw taste, enhancing the richness of your soup.
Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your family’s taste; avoiding overspicing ensures the loaded chicken potato soup appeals to everyone.
Make Ahead Options
These Loaded Chicken Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) and dice the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and chicken ahead of time—keeping them in airtight containers allows the flavors to develop and ensures they stay just as delicious. When ready to enjoy, simply follow the cooking instructions starting with sautéing the aromatics, adding the prepped ingredients, and simmering until everything is hot and the potatoes are tender. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort!
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How should I select ripe ingredients for the soup?
When it comes to selecting ripe ingredients for your Loaded Chicken Potato Soup, fresh, firm potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes are ideal. Look for bacon that feels firm and has a good balance of fat for flavor. For vegetables, choose vibrant carrots and celery, and opt for chickens that feel plump and are free from any strong odors.
How do I store leftover Loaded Chicken Potato Soup?
Store leftover Loaded Chicken Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to improve even more after a night in the fridge, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Just be sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing it up to keep it fresh!
Can I freeze Loaded Chicken Potato Soup, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze Loaded Chicken Potato Soup for up to 3 months. To maintain the best texture, I recommend slightly undercooking the potatoes before freezing. Allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into airtight freezer bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
If your Loaded Chicken Potato Soup is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry—it’s an easy fix! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water, stirring gently, to reach your desired consistency. Heat it over low to medium heat until warm and serve. This method not only helps restore your soup’s creaminess but can also enhance the flavors.
Can I customize this soup to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
Absolutely! This Loaded Chicken Potato Soup is very adaptable. If you have dietary restrictions, consider swapping out the chicken for cooked beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. For lactose-free options, use a non-dairy milk in place of half and half and dairy-free cheese. Always double-check ingredient labels for any specific allergens, ensuring a safe option for everyone at the table.
Is this soup suitable for pets?
While Loaded Chicken Potato Soup is a delicious and comforting dish for humans, it’s best not to share it with pets. The added seasonings, garlic, and onions can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking to treat your furry friend, make plain cooked chicken or vegetables set aside from the soup without any seasoning.
Loaded Chicken Potato Soup: A Cozy Hug in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble, reserving the drippings.
- Prepare vegetables: Dice potatoes, chop carrots and celery, finely chop onion, mince garlic, and cut chicken into chunks.
- Brown chicken in a skillet with olive oil for about 3 minutes on each side until golden, then remove from heat.
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in the same pot with bacon drippings, adding garlic after 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Mix in half and half.
- Add diced potatoes and browned chicken to the pot, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf, stir in cheese and bacon until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the soup ladled into bowls, garnished with green onions.