Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a separate small saucepan over medium heat.
8. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
9. Slowly whisk the roux into the simmering soup, ensuring it’s fully incorporated.
10. Add the shredded chicken to the soup.
11. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
12. Heat through, but do not boil.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
The Magic Behind Creamy Chicken Potato Soup
This soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience. It’s about warmth, comfort, and the satisfying feeling of a home-cooked meal. The combination of simple ingredients, carefully prepared, creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and surprisingly complex.
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Many chicken potato soup recipes lack the richness and depth of flavor that this one offers. The garlic Parmesan twist takes it to another level. The roux, often skipped in simpler recipes, ensures a creamy, luscious texture that will have you savoring every spoonful.
This recipe is about building flavor from the ground up. Sautéing the onion and garlic creates a fragrant base. The careful addition of the roux prevents a grainy texture. It allows the potatoes and chicken to shine.
Versatile and Adaptable
This soup can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream, or substitute cauliflower for some of the potatoes.
You can also add different vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or corn, to customize the flavor and nutritional content.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
The secret to an exceptional Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potato Soup lies in the details. Paying attention to each step and using quality ingredients will make all the difference.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Select Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and mild flavor. Opt for a good quality chicken broth, as it forms the base of the soup’s flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide a richer, more complex taste than pre-shredded varieties.
Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a touch of brightness and visual appeal.
Mastering the Roux
The roux is crucial for creating a smooth, creamy texture. Cook it over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color. This helps to remove the raw flour taste. Whisk the roux into the simmering soup gradually, ensuring it’s fully incorporated to prevent lumps.
A lumpy soup can ruin the entire experience.
Serving and Storage
Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a crusty piece of bread for dipping. This soup is best enjoyed immediately, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.
The flavor may intensify slightly overnight.
Delicious Variations & Add-Ins
While the original recipe is a masterpiece, there are plenty of ways to experiment and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Elevating the Protein
Consider adding bacon bits for a smoky flavor boost. Crispy bacon adds a salty, crunchy element. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. Pre-cooked chicken simplifies the cooking process. For a vegetarian option, try adding cannellini beans for a creamy texture and protein source.
The possibilities are endless.
Vegetable Medley
Incorporate other vegetables like diced carrots and celery alongside the onion. You could also use frozen mixed vegetables. Roasted vegetables add a deeper, sweeter flavor. Try roasting the potatoes before adding them to the soup.
This adds a wonderful complexity.
Spice It Up
A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat. A dash of hot sauce is another way to add spice. Experiment with different types of hot sauce.
Remember that a little goes a long way.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Soup is a versatile dish. Its flavor can be elevated with the right accompaniments. Here are some ideal pairings.
Bread
Serve with crusty bread, sourdough, or garlic bread for dipping. Warm bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.
Try making your own bread.
Salad
A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast. The acidity cuts through the richness of the soup. Consider a Caesar salad or a simple green salad.
Balance is key.
Sandwiches
Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich or a panini for a heartier meal. A warm sandwich complements the soup well.
Experiment with different cheeses.
Health Benefits of Chicken Potato Soup
Beyond its delicious taste, this soup also offers several health benefits. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal.
Nutritional Value
Chicken potato soup provides essential nutrients. It offers vitamins, minerals, and protein. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber. Chicken provides lean protein.
A balanced meal.
Immune System Boost
Chicken broth is known for its soothing properties. It can help relieve cold symptoms. The soup also contains vitamins and antioxidants. Garlic has antimicrobial properties.
A healing soup.
Comfort Food
The warmth and comforting flavors of the soup can improve mood. It provides a sense of well-being. It can reduce stress.
A mental health boost.
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Potato Soup
This section addresses some common questions about the recipe.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld together, and the soup may taste even better the next day. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Avoid boiling the soup when reheating, as this can cause the cream to separate.
Can I freeze this soup?
While it is possible to freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly after thawing. The potatoes can become a bit grainy, and the cream may separate. To minimize these effects, cool the soup completely before freezing. Store it in freezer-safe containers or bags. When thawing, do so slowly in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently and stir well.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute milk for heavy cream to reduce the fat content. However, the soup will not be as rich and creamy. For a slightly thicker consistency, you can use whole milk or add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the milk before adding it to the soup.
Skim milk is not recommended.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this soup to be vegetarian. Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or corn, to make it more filling. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein and creaminess.
Consider adding vegetarian sausage crumbles.
How do I prevent the soup from being too thick?
If the soup becomes too thick, add more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Start with small amounts of liquid and stir well after each addition. You can also use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, which will help to thin it out.
Be careful not to over-blend.
