Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon and Sour Cream: A Hearty and Comforting Recipe
When the weather cools down and you’re craving something warm and filling, Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon and Sour Cream is the perfect choice. This creamy, flavorful soup is loaded with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, crispy bacon, and a dollop of tangy sour cream that ties it all together. It’s the ultimate comfort food, ready to please the entire family.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon and Sour Cream
Here’s everything you need to prepare this satisfying soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast (cubed) | 1 lb |
| Potatoes (peeled and diced) | 4 medium |
| Bacon (cooked and crumbled) | 6 slices |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium |
| Celery (sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Potato Soup
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the butter to the reserved bacon drippings. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add Potatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Make the Cream Base:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Add Sour Cream and Bacon:
- Stir in the sour cream and half of the crumbled bacon. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Cook the Bacon First: Cooking the bacon in the pot adds extra flavor to the soup base with the rendered drippings.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like corn, peas, or green beans to make it your own.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Browning the chicken before adding the broth helps lock in its flavor and prevent it from drying out.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Version: Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
Can I freeze Chicken Potato Soup?
This soup can be frozen, but the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly, stirring frequently.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken in Step 4 and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
A Bowl of Comfort Worth Savoring
Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon and Sour Cream is the perfect blend of hearty ingredients and comforting flavors. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor the warmth and richness of this delightful recipe!