When the weather turns chilly and the days grow shorter, nothing beats a warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Chicken & Bacon – Easy Weeknight Comfort. This hearty dish combines the classic flavors of a baked potato with the savory goodness of tender chicken and crispy bacon, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Perfect for busy evenings, this soup brings together creamy textures and rich tastes in every spoonful, making it a go-to for fall and winter dinners.
As a comfort food staple, this loaded potato soup is ideal for anyone craving something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking to unwind after a long day, the addition of chicken and bacon elevates this recipe into a full-fledged meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences or whatever you have in your pantry.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to whip up this cheesy potato soup with ease. From the essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions, you’ll find tips and tricks to make this dish a regular in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into crafting the ultimate bowl of comfort!
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes this baked potato soup a standout choice for any night of the week:
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
- Category: Main Dish, Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious loaded potato soup, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Potatoes form the hearty base, providing a starchy, creamy foundation when cooked down. Chicken adds protein and substance, making the soup a complete meal, while bacon brings a smoky, crispy contrast that’s irresistible. A blend of cheeses melts into the broth for that signature cheesy potato soup richness, and heavy cream ties it all together with a velvety finish. Aromatics like onions and garlic enhance the savory profile, while simple seasonings ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Discover the comforting flavors of this hearty soup, perfect for chilly nights
INGREDIENTS
- – 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- – 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- – 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- – 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 4 cups chicken broth
- – 1 cup heavy cream
- – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- – 1/2 cup sour cream
- – 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- – 1 tsp salt
- – 1/2 tsp black pepper
- – 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- – 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
PREPARATION
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the diced potatoes and 4 cups chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash about half of the potatoes directly in the pot to create a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness.
- Stir in the 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup sour cream. Mix until fully combined and the cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon (reserving some for garnish), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with reserved bacon crumbles, sliced green onions, and an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 480 per serving
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 920mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Values are approximate and based on a serving size of 1/6 of the recipe.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Fall
As part of your collection of fall soup recipes, this dish shines with its warming qualities. The rich, creamy broth and hearty ingredients like potatoes and chicken make it an ideal choice when the temperatures drop. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for crisp autumn evenings.
Customizing Your Loaded Potato Soup
One of the best things about this loaded potato soup is how adaptable it is. Swap out cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. You can even toss in veggies like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
Crockpot Option for Busy Days
For an even easier approach, try making crockpot loaded potato soup. Simply add the potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth to your slow cooker, set it on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the cream, cheese, chicken, and bacon at the end. It’s a hands-off way to enjoy the same comforting flavors.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Chicken & Bacon – Easy Weeknight Comfort Recipe
INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Chicken & Bacon – Easy Weeknight Comfort Recipe!
Nutrition Information
Storing and Reheating Tips
This baked potato soup stores beautifully for leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much. Avoid freezing, as the cream and potatoes can separate and become grainy.
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Elevate your chicken bacon soup experience by pairing it with a crusty piece of bread or a simple green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, while a salad adds a fresh, light contrast to the richness of the soup.
Healthier Twists on a Classic
If you’re looking to lighten up this cheesy potato soup, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of cheese. You can also use turkey bacon for a lower-fat option without sacrificing that smoky flavor. Small swaps can make a big difference while keeping the comfort intact.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This loaded potato soup is a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights. Prepare it up to the point of adding the cream and cheese, then store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and stir in the dairy components to maintain a smooth texture.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Freezing is not recommended for this particular baked potato soup due to the cream and potato content, which can result in a grainy texture upon thawing. If you must freeze, do so before adding the cream and cheese, then add those fresh when reheating.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken or bacon?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie) or pre-cooked bacon can save time when making this chicken bacon soup. Just shred the chicken and crumble the bacon, then add them during the final simmering step to heat through without overcooking.
What potatoes work best for this soup?
Russet potatoes are the top choice for this cheesy potato soup because of their high starch content, which helps create a creamy texture when mashed. Yukon Gold potatoes can also work if you prefer a slightly waxier texture with a buttery flavor.
Conclusion
There’s no denying the appeal of a steaming bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Chicken & Bacon – Easy Weeknight Comfort on a cool evening. With its blend of creamy potatoes, savory chicken, and smoky bacon, this dish delivers all the cozy vibes of a home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try addition to your fall soup recipes lineup. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort tonight!
If you loved this recipe, don’t hesitate to share it with friends or try experimenting with your own twists. For more hearty dishes and time-saving tips, keep exploring our collection of easy meals at our recipe hub. Happy cooking!
