Hearty Chicken Potato Soup

🍲 Hearty Chicken Potato Soup
Introduction
Hearty Chicken Potato Soup is a warm, comforting dish packed with tender Chicken, soft Potato, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, cold days, or whenever you want a satisfying homemade soup.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
2 medium Carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cups cooked shredded Chicken
4 medium Potato, peeled and diced
5 cups Chicken broth
1 cup milk or cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Optional Additions
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup frozen corn or peas
3 slices cooked bacon, chopped
1 tablespoon flour for a thicker soup
Instructions

1. Cook the Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Add Vegetables
   Add carrots and celery. Cook for 3–5 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth
   Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer
   Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add Chicken and Cream
   Add the shredded chicken and milk or cream. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Season
   Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Finish
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
   Tips for Success
   Use leftover roasted chicken for extra flavor.
   Mash a few potatoes in the pot for a naturally thicker soup.
   Add cheese at the end for a creamy, rich version.
   Serving Suggestions
   Serve this hearty soup with:
   Crusty bread
   Garlic toast
   Fresh green salad
   Crackers
   Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
   Calories: 320
   Protein: 24 g
   Carbohydrates: 28 g
   Fat: 12 g