There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken potato soup. With every spoonful, this creamy and hearty meal delivers both nourishment and warmth. This is the kind of soup that makes you feel better on cold days or when you just need something cozy to wrap your hands around. It’s brimming with chunks of tender chicken, buttery potatoes, and sweet carrots, all swimming in a creamy, savory broth.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping lunches for the week, this soup is a reliable crowd-pleaser. It tastes like it’s been simmering all day, yet comes together surprisingly quickly. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand. Let’s dive into what makes this chicken potato soup truly special.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
The best potatoes for chicken potato soup are Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and have a buttery texture that complements the creamy broth perfectly. Russet potatoes can be used in a pinch, but they tend to break down more and may make the soup a bit thicker or grainier.
If you prefer a chunkier, rustic feel, leave the skins on. For a smoother finish, peel them before dicing. Whichever way you choose, the potatoes are what give this soup its heartiness and satisfying bite.

Ingredients for the Warming Chicken Potato Soup
Chicken: Cooked, shredded chicken breast or thighs adds the protein and classic comfort factor.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes give the soup body and a rich, creamy bite without needing heavy cream.
Carrots: These bring a natural sweetness and color that balance the savory depth of the soup.
Onion & Garlic: Foundational aromatics that boost flavor and add that homey aroma while cooking.
Chicken Broth: The backbone of the soup, providing savory depth and tying all the ingredients together.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Optional, but adds luscious creaminess that makes the soup even cozier.
Butter & Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding a touch of richness.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley round out the flavor profile with subtle herbal notes.
Optional Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, corn, or celery can be tossed in for extra flavor and texture.
How To Make the Warming Chicken Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Toss in your diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the Chicken
Add the cooked, shredded chicken to the pot. Let it warm through for 5 minutes. If using corn or celery, toss them in now and let them simmer with the chicken.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir gently. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the soup to become luxuriously creamy.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Season the soup with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing everything to settle and the flavor to deepen.
How to Serve and Store Chicken Potato Soup
Serve your warming chicken potato soup piping hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or crumbled bacon on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a more filling meal, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich.
To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen it if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor from the seasoning. Just shred and add in Step 3.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Mash a few of the potatoes in the pot to naturally thicken the broth, or whisk a tablespoon of flour into the cream before adding it.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream. The flavor will change slightly, but it’s still delicious.
What vegetables go well in this soup?
Celery, peas, corn, or even chopped spinach work beautifully in this soup. Add them based on what you have on hand or your flavor preference.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything except the cream to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4. Stir in cream at the end.
Is it okay to freeze soup with cream?
You can, but note that the texture may change slightly. Stirring well while reheating helps bring it back together.
Want More Soup Ideas?
If this cozy chicken potato soup has you feeling all warm inside, here are more comforting bowls you’ll love:
- Creamy Shrimp Chowder for seafood lovers.
- Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup if you’re craving something with a spicy twist.
- Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup with a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup if you’re in the mood for something rich and savory.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes as a hearty dinner alternative.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist? Try it with celery or skip the cream?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other get the most out of every spoonful.
Find more soup and cozy meal ideas on my Pinterest: Life with Nina

Warming Chicken Potato Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A cozy, hearty soup filled with tender chicken, buttery potatoes, and sweet carrots in a creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comfort meal that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 large carrots, sliced
4 cups diced Yukon Gold or red potatoes
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and sliced carrots. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until onions are translucent.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Add shredded cooked chicken. If using optional add-ins like corn or celery, stir them in now. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half) and simmer for another 5 minutes to blend flavors.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Turn off heat and let the soup sit a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For a thicker soup, mash a few potatoes in the pot after simmering.
Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor and is a great shortcut.
You can swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: chicken potato soup, creamy chicken soup, winter comfort food


