Comforting Chicken Soup with Potatoes

Description

This Comforting Chicken Soup with Potatoes is a warm, hearty dish perfect for chilly days or when you need a nourishing, soothing meal. Made with tender chicken, creamy potatoes, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is both satisfying and wholesome. Its gentle flavors make it a favorite for the whole family, while its richness provides both comfort and nourishment.

📝 Ingredients for Comforting Chicken Soup with Potatoes

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled & diced

• 1 ½ lbs (700g) chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)

• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color & extra health benefits)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or corn for added texture

🍳 Instructions

1. Sauté the base

   • Heat olive oil/butter in a large pot.

   • Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.

   • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

2. Add chicken and potatoes

   • Place chicken and diced potatoes into the pot.

   • Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, bay leaf, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.

   • Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.

4. Shred the chicken

   • Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the soup.

5. Final touches

   • Adjust seasoning as needed.

   • Stir in peas or corn (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes.

6. Serve

   • Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with bread or crackers.

📌 Notes

• For a creamier soup, mash a few potatoes directly in the pot before serving.

• Can substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat.

• Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright flavor.

💡 Tips

• Use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor.

• If making ahead, store without potatoes (they can get mushy). Add freshly cooked potatoes when reheating.

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

🍽️ Servings

• Makes 6 servings (about 1 ½ cups per serving).

📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 25g

• Carbs: 25g

• Fat: 9g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 620mg

🌿 Benefits

• Immune-boosting: Chicken and garlic help fight colds and flu.

• Energy-giving: Potatoes provide complex carbs for sustained energy.

• Gut-friendly: Vegetables add fiber for digestion.

• Hydrating & soothing: Perfect for recovery from illness or after a long day.

❓ Q/A

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
➡️ Yes! Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Shred chicken before serving.

Q2: How can I make it gluten-free?
➡️ It’s naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

Q3: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
➡️ Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet, earthy flavor and more vitamins.

Q4: How do I thicken the soup?
➡️ Mash some potatoes in the pot or add 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water.

Q5: What’s the best bread to serve with it?
➡️ Crusty baguette, garlic bread, or homemade dinner rolls pair wonderfully.