Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup

As the chill of the season sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and warmth. Today, I’m excited to share with you a delicious recipe for Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup, a dish that combines the richness of chicken and potatoes with a velvety creamy base, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, cooked and diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Toppings of choice (options listed below)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about ¼ cup of the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add butter to the bacon drippings and melt. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Roux Creation: Sprinkle flour over the softened vegetables and whisk for about 2-3 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth.
4. Add Seasonings and Potatoes: Return the pot to the heat. Add the chicken bouillon cube, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Combine Chicken and Cream: Add the cooked chicken and heavy cream to the pot. Continue to simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Final Touches: Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your chosen toppings.

Topping Options:

• Chopped chives or green onions for a fresh bite.
• Extra crumbled bacon for added crunch and flavor.
• A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Calories: 565 kcal per serving
• Servings: 10

This Creamy Chicken and Potato Soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy meal on a rainy day, this soup promises to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!