There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of hot, creamy soup on a chilly evening. But when that bowl is filled with tender shredded chicken, smoky bits of bacon or turkey, soft Yukon gold potatoes, and melty Monterey Jack cheese, the experience transforms into something unforgettable. This Chicken Bacon Potato Soup brings all the cozy feels of classic comfort food while offering elevated layers of flavor, thanks to simple yet powerful ingredients. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or preparing a hearty starter for guests, this soup delivers in both taste and warmth.
Chicken Bacon Potato Soup: A Creamy, Hearty Bowl of Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A rich and creamy Chicken Bacon Potato Soup made with tender Yukon gold potatoes, shredded chicken, Monterey Jack cheese, and a smoky twist of turkey. It’s the perfect one-pot comfort meal for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 cups cooked boneless chicken breast, shredded and chopped
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
½ cup smoked turkey pieces, finely chopped
Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the potatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken, shredded cheese, heavy cream, and smoked turkey pieces. Cook over low heat, stirring gently, until the cheese melts.
5. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Slowly stir the mixture into the soup. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm.
Notes
To keep this soup gluten-free, use cornstarch as listed—no flour needed. For extra smoky depth, substitute or combine bacon with smoked turkey. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well over low heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why Chicken Bacon Potato Soup Is the Ultimate Comfort Meal
Few dishes feel as universally loved as a good potato soup. But when you blend the creamy richness of potatoes with the heartiness of chicken and the smoky crunch of bacon or turkey, you’ve got a bowl that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. The combination of creamy base and savory depth from the protein makes this Chicken Bacon Potato Soup the perfect one-pot meal for busy evenings or lazy weekends.
Part of its charm lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks in one pot, yet the result tastes like something that simmered all day. The garlic and onion gently sautéed in olive oil set the flavor tone right from the beginning, filling your kitchen with aromas that signal something delicious is on the way. As the potatoes tenderize in rich chicken broth, their natural starch adds body to the soup, while the cream and cheese take it to a luxurious level.
Beyond weeknight meals, this soup holds its own at gatherings. It’s easy to scale up, looks beautiful with a sprinkle of green onions on top, and pleases just about every palate. Whether ladled into a rustic mug or served as the main course with crusty bread, it’s the kind of dish people remember and request again and again.
Building Deep Flavor in Chicken Bacon Potato Soup
Good soup starts with great layering. The secret to making this dish unforgettable lies in how you build its flavor from the very first step. Sautéing diced onion and garlic in olive oil doesn’t just soften them—it unlocks their natural sweetness and turns the base into something aromatic and savory.
But what really sets this soup apart is the addition of smoked turkey. While bacon is often the go-to for smoky flavor, smoked turkey pieces offer a leaner alternative with all the savory depth you crave. Once stirred into the hot soup, they melt into the creamy base, adding a subtle umami note that elevates every spoonful.
As the final layer, Monterey Jack cheese and heavy cream round out the texture. The cheese melts beautifully into the broth, giving it that rich, velvety texture that coats the spoon just right. Together with the cream, it creates a base that’s indulgent without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of balance that invites you to go back for seconds.
Choosing the Best Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
Start with Yukon gold potatoes. Their creamy texture and buttery taste make them ideal for soups. Unlike russet potatoes, which can break down and become mealy, Yukon golds hold their shape just enough while still creating that soft, almost silky bite in the final dish.
For the chicken, using pre-cooked boneless breast saves time without sacrificing flavor. Shredding and chopping it before adding to the soup helps it soak up the savory broth while still giving each spoonful some chew. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, that works beautifully here too.
Smoked turkey offers a smart twist on traditional bacon. Not only does it deliver smoky richness, but it also keeps the dish gluten-free and slightly leaner. If you’re looking for an even deeper smoky hit, you can use a combination of both bacon and smoked turkey—but even just the turkey on its own brings exceptional flavor.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Bacon Potato Soup Every Time
Making this soup isn’t complicated, but there are a few smart tips to keep in mind. One of the most common mistakes with potato soup is ending up with a thin, bland broth. To avoid this, make sure the potatoes are fully cooked and slightly breaking down before you add the dairy and thickener. Their natural starch is a big part of what gives the soup body.
Thickening without flour is another win in this recipe. A quick slurry of cornstarch and water is all you need to bring the soup to the perfect consistency. It blends smoothly into the hot broth and thickens it just enough without making it pasty.
Texture is key in a soup like this. You want each bite to offer variety: creamy broth, tender potatoes, juicy chicken, melty cheese, and smoky turkey. Be sure not to over-stir once the dairy is in, as this can break down the potatoes too much and make the soup gummy. A gentle hand ensures a luscious, balanced finish.
How to Serve and Store Chicken Bacon Potato Soup
A garnish of fresh chopped green onions adds just the right pop of color and a mild bite that cuts through the richness. If you want a little more crunch or salt, crumble a bit of crisp bacon on top or add shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Leftovers of this soup are pure gold. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors only deepen overnight. Be sure to let it cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently over low heat and stir often—this helps preserve the creaminess and avoids separating the dairy.
If you’re meal prepping, consider doubling the batch and freezing individual portions before adding the cornstarch slurry. Thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat slowly, then stir in the thickener just before serving for best texture.
More Cozy Soups You’ll Love
Looking for more comfort in a bowl? This Chicken and Butternut Squash Stew brings together earthy squash and tender chicken in a broth that feels like fall in every bite. It’s hearty, healthy, and just as simple to make.
Or, if you’re craving something with a little spice and a creamy Tex-Mex flair, don’t miss this Chicken Taco Soup with Creamy Cheese. It’s packed with bold flavors and a perfect switch-up when you want something with a little zing.
Classic chicken noodle will always have its place, but once you’ve tried this Chicken Bacon Potato Soup, you might never look back. It hits all the right notes: rich, savory, creamy, and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Bacon Potato Soup
Can you add chicken to potato bacon soup?
Absolutely. Chicken adds both protein and flavor, making potato bacon soup a more filling and complete meal. In this recipe, we use pre-cooked shredded chicken for convenience and texture.
What are common mistakes making potato soup?
Undercooked potatoes, watery broth, and over-stirring are the top pitfalls. Always simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, use thickening agents like cornstarch, and stir gently after adding dairy to maintain a creamy texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat slowly. Add fresh green onion garnish just before serving for best presentation.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Chicken Bacon Potato Soup is naturally gluten-free, thanks to the use of cornstarch instead of flour as a thickener.
Conclusion: One Spoon, Endless Comfort
Whether you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm up winter nights or just need a reliable go-to dinner recipe, Chicken Bacon Potato Soup is the answer. With its creamy texture, rich layers of flavor, and easy prep, it’s the kind of recipe that finds a permanent home in your rotation. One bowl is satisfying, but two is pure comfort—so make enough to share, and don’t be surprised when they ask for the recipe.
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