Chicken Potato Soup

This Chicken Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food, blending tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s a warm, satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need something cozy and filling. The addition of cream cheese gives the soup a luxurious texture, while the sautéed vegetables add layers of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup diced white onion
• 1/2 cup sliced celery
• 3/4 cup sliced carrots
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth or chicken stock
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 medium potato (Russet or Yukon), peeled and cubed into 1/2 inch pieces (about 2 cups)
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon minced flat-leaf parsley

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large Dutch oven or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Create the Base: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to coat them evenly. This will help thicken the soup. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Add the Cream Cheese: Stir in the softened cream cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup. If the soup is too thick, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Finish with Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and fresh parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup heat through, then serve hot.

Tips:

• Thinning the Soup: If the soup is too thick after adding the cream cheese, simply add more milk or broth until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or peas for extra texture and flavor.

This Chicken Potato Soup is a comforting bowl of warmth, perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week!