Chicken Soup with Potatoes – Hearty, Comforting & Easy to Make

Have you ever craved a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug from the inside? Look no further than a steaming bowl of Chicken Soup with Potatoes. This classic dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, ensuring a satisfying and nourishing meal any day of the week.

Ingredients List

• 1 whole chicken (or 3-4 lbs of chicken parts)
• 8 cups of water or chicken broth
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks of celery, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes or add in other vegetables like peas or corn.

Timing

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes, which is surprisingly efficient for a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If using a whole chicken, remove the giblets and rinse the chicken under cold water. Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, peel and chop the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic as well.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred or chop the chicken meat, discarding the bones and skin.

Step 4: Assemble the Soup

1. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the cooking liquid.
2. Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, you can add a bay leaf or a sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary to the pot.

Nutritional Information

One serving of this Chicken Soup with Potatoes (approximately 1 1/2 cups) contains:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 8g

This hearty soup is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following modifications:

• Use low-sodium broth or water to reduce sodium content.
• Swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
• Add more leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken to reduce fat content.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken vegetable soup with potatoes is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Pair it with a crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
• Top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added richness.
• Serve it with a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
• Pack it in a thermos for a warm and comforting lunch on-the-go.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dry and tough meat.
2. Not seasoning the soup enough, resulting in a bland flavor.
3. Adding the vegetables too early, causing them to become mushy.
4. Using too much water or broth, which can dilute the flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers of this Chicken Soup with Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To extend the shelf life, you can also freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months.

For best results, let the soup cool completely before storing, and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick.

Conclusion

This Chicken Soup with Potatoes is a classic comfort food that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of this hearty and delicious soup in no time.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below, or explore our other delectable recipe posts for more culinary inspiration!