Quick Overview
Chicken Bacon Potato Soup is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken and bacon with tender potatoes in a creamy broth. This recipe is perfect for cold evenings or when you need a hearty meal that warms your soul. It’s simple to prepare and brings together ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. In no time at all, you will have a delicious pot of Chicken Bacon Potato Soup ready to serve.
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken Breast
For this recipe, use 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken breast. You can grill or boil the chicken beforehand. This ingredient provides the main source of protein and adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
Bacon
Using 6 slices of bacon enhances the dish with smoky flavor. Cook the bacon until crispy and then crumble it into pieces. The rendered fat from the bacon also adds richness to the broth.
Potatoes
Add 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes. Potatoes contribute heartiness to the soup and absorb flavors beautifully while cooking.
Onion
One medium onion diced finely will add sweetness and aroma to your soup base. Sautéing onions brings out their natural sugars, enhancing the overall taste.
Garlic
Two cloves of minced garlic offer a fragrant punch to your dish. Garlic complements the other ingredients well and adds an aromatic quality that elevates flavor.
Chicken Broth
Use 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth as your base. This liquid provides moisture while allowing for easy seasoning adjustments without adding too much salt.
Heavy Cream
Add 1 cup of heavy cream for richness and a velvety texture. It makes the soup creamy and indulgent without being overly heavy.
Seasonings
Include salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley according to taste. These seasonings will enhance all flavors in your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup.
Step By Step Recipe: Chicken Bacon Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot but leave about a tablespoon of rendered fat for extra flavor in your soup base. Allow bacon to cool before crumbling it into small pieces for later use.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same pot with reserved bacon fat, add diced onions and sauté until translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not burned; this will build a flavorful foundation for your soup.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Stir in diced potatoes along with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat before reducing it to a simmer. Cover and let cook for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Chicken
Once potatoes are soft, lower the heat and mix in 1 cup of heavy cream along with shredded chicken breast. Stir well until everything is evenly combined—allow this mixture to heat through on low heat for about 5 more minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Season Your Soup
Taste your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup at this stage; adjust seasoning by adding salt, pepper, thyme, or parsley as necessary according to preference. Simmer gently on low heat allowing flavors to meld together perfectly—about another 5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle hot soup into bowls and top each serving generously with crumbled bacon along with fresh parsley if desired for garnish—this final touch adds a burst of color while enhancing presentation!
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestion
Serve your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup with crusty bread or fresh rolls on the side for dipping! It makes an excellent meal that satisfies cravings while providing warmth during chilly evenings—a complete comfort food experience!
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers after enjoying this hearty dish, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will last up to three days! To reheat simply place back on low heat on stovetop until warmed through—stir occasionally!
This article provides everything needed to create delicious Chicken Bacon Potato Soup! Enjoy making this recipe that’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making Chicken Bacon Potato Soup is not properly cooking the bacon. Ensure the bacon is crispy before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the flavor and gives a nice texture to your soup. Undercooked bacon can result in a greasy soup, which is unappetizing.
Another mistake is using too much liquid. While you want a hearty soup, balance the broth and cream ratio to prevent it from becoming overly watery. Too much liquid can dilute the rich flavors of chicken, bacon, and potatoes.
A third mistake involves not seasoning adequately. Seasoning at different stages of cooking helps develop deeper flavors. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Skipping this step may lead to bland results.
Lastly, don’t forget to use fresh ingredients. Using old or wilted vegetables can negatively affect both taste and texture. Fresh potatoes and greens will improve the overall quality of your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup.
Tips and tricks
To create the best Chicken Bacon Potato Soup, start with high-quality ingredients. Use organic chicken and thick-cut bacon for richer flavors. The better your base ingredients, the tastier your final dish will be.
Consider adding aromatics like garlic and onions early in the cooking process. Sauté them in the bacon fat until fragrant; this builds a strong flavor foundation for your soup. Don’t rush this step; allowing these ingredients to develop their flavors takes time.
When incorporating potatoes, choose waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These types hold their shape well during cooking, providing a creamy texture without breaking down too much in the soup.
Finally, allow your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes after adding all ingredients. This simmering time melds flavors beautifully, creating a comforting bowl filled with warmth and richness that everyone will love.
Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Potato Soup
For a twist on traditional Chicken Bacon Potato Soup, consider adding some vegetables like spinach or kale near the end of cooking for added nutrients and color. These greens brighten up the dish while contributing valuable vitamins.
Try experimenting with spices as well. Adding smoked paprika or thyme can introduce an exciting depth of flavor that complements the main ingredients nicely. Just a pinch can make all the difference.
If you’re looking for a creamier texture without heavy cream, use pureed cauliflower instead. It works wonderfully as a thickener while keeping your soup lighter in calories but still satisfying.
Lastly, serve your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup with crusty bread or homemade croutons on top for added crunch and flavor contrast. This combination makes for an even more delightful dining experience.
FAQs
What is Chicken Bacon Potato Soup?
Chicken Bacon Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty dish made primarily with chicken, crispy bacon, potatoes, and various seasonings. The combination creates a rich flavor profile that’s perfect for cold weather or comforting meals any time of year.
Can I make Chicken Bacon Potato Soup in advance?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better when made in advance as it allows flavors to meld together overnight in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to enjoy its deliciousness again.
How do I store leftovers of Chicken Bacon Potato Soup?
Store leftover Chicken Bacon Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months; just be sure to thaw it completely before reheating.
Can I add other meats to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add shredded rotisserie chicken or sausage if you prefer different meat options in your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on what you choose.
Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Bacon Potato Soup?
Yes! You can create a vegetarian version by omitting chicken and bacon while using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Substitute mushrooms for added umami flavor and include beans for protein while maintaining heartiness.
What type of potatoes work best in this soup?
Waxy potato varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape during cooking while contributing creaminess to your Chicken Bacon Potato Soup without turning mushy too quickly.
Summary
In conclusion, making delicious Chicken Bacon Potato Soup involves avoiding common mistakes such as undercooking bacon or overloading with liquid. Utilize tips like using quality ingredients and allowing proper simmering time for optimal flavor development. Don’t hesitate to try new variations by incorporating additional vegetables or spices into your recipe! Enjoy this comforting dish with crusty bread on chilly evenings or whenever you crave something hearty.
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Chicken Bacon Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and hearty soup packed with chicken, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 slices of bacon, diced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for a few minutes before adding the chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
5. Add shredded chicken, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped green onions.
Notes
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 20g
Keywords: soup, chicken, bacon, potatoes