🥣 Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Potato Soup
📝 Description
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty meal made with tender chicken, soft potatoes, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. Everything simmers gently in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully with minimal effort. It’s perfect for cold days, busy weeknights, or when you want a nourishing, satisfying soup with very little hands-on cooking.
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 6–7 hours (LOW) or 3–4 hours (HIGH)
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Total Time: About 6½ hours
🍲 Ingredients
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1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
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1 cup carrots, diced
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1 cup celery, diced
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp dried parsley
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
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2 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
👩🍳 Instructions
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Add to Slow Cooker:
Place chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. -
Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are tender. -
Shred Chicken:
Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. -
Make It Creamy:
Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and butter (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. -
Thicken (Optional):
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes on HIGH until thickened. -
Finish:
Add shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning. -
Serve Hot with crusty bread or crackers.
🍽️ Servings
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Serves: 6–8 people
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Serving Size: About 1½ cups per serving
🧠 Notes
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Chicken thighs provide extra flavor and tenderness.
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Yukon Gold potatoes give a creamier texture than Russet.
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Soup thickens more as it cools.
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Easily doubles for meal prep or gatherings.
💡 Tips for Best Results
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For extra creaminess, mash some potatoes directly in the slow cooker.
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Add bacon bits or green onions as garnish.
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If using dairy-free alternatives, choose full-fat coconut milk.
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Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
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Calories: 380–420 kcal
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Protein: 28 g
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Fat: 22 g
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Carbohydrates: 25 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sugar: 3 g
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Sodium: 650 mg
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
🌿 Health Benefits
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High Protein: Supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
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Comfort Food with Nutrients: Potatoes provide potassium and energy.
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Immune Support: Garlic and herbs contribute antioxidants.
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Balanced Meal: Includes protein, carbs, and fats in one dish.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, but cream-based soups may separate slightly. Stir well when reheating.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Whole milk works best.
Q: How can I make it gluten-free?
A: Skip the cornstarch or ensure it’s certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely—corn, peas, or spinach are great additions.