## Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon
### Time Required
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
### Introduction
There’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup on a cold day. Step your soup game up a notch with this delicious Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon – an impeccable blend of hearty ingredients and savory flavors. With crispy bacon, tender chicken, and hearty potatoes, it’s a sure hit with the entire family.
### Why Make This Recipe
Soups are time-tested comfort food. What sets this Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon recipe apart is its combination of familiar ingredients found in every kitchen, and the unique blend of creamy, savory flavors it provides. The added goodness of crispy bacon gives this soup dish a pop of texture and an enriching smoky flavor. Warm-up and nourish your body with every delightful spoonful!
### How to Make Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon
#### Ingredients:
– 4 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
#### Directions:
1. On a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set them aside but leave the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent.
3. Add the diced chicken into the pot and cook until it turns brown on all sides.
4. Stir in the potatoes and pour the chicken broth over. Bring everything to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in milk, cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot and garnish with the crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley.
### How to Serve Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon
Serve this Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon piping hot. Sprinkle it with extra cheese on top, if desired, and add more fresh parsley for extra color and freshness. A side of crusty bread would complement this soup wonderfully and acts as a great dunker!
### How to Store Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon
Keep the leftover soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep nicely for 3 to 4 days. When you want to serve it, reheat it gently on the stove or in a microwave.
### Tips to Make Chicken Potato Soup with Bacon
– Using fresh ingredients gives the best flavors.
– You may also use turkey bacon if you desire a leaner version.
– Adjust the thickness of the soup as per your liking by adding more or less cream.
### Variations
If you’re looking for variations, you might want to replace chicken with turkey. Adding vegetables like corn or bell peppers can also create a different flavor and nutrition profile.
### FAQs
##### Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with turkey or beef, depending on your preference.
##### Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Certainly! Adding vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or peas will give the soup extra flavor and nutrition.
##### Is it okay to use skimmed milk instead of full-cream milk?
Yes, but keep in mind that using full-cream milk will give your soup a richer flavor and creamier texture.