Chicken And Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

Soup has this incredible way of warming both the body and soul, especially when you’re craving something hearty, nutritious, and easy to whip up. One of the ultimate comfort food combinations that delivers on both taste and nutrition is chicken and sweet potato. This blend is not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits. Think tender chunks of chicken, velvety soft sweet potatoes, and a broth that ties everything together with depth of flavor.

This chicken and sweet potato soup recipe brings a burst of nutrients from lean protein and antioxidant-rich vegetables, making it a meal that’s perfect for colder months or whenever you want to feel nourished. And let’s face it-who doesn’t love a good soup that’s both easy to make and delicious?

In this guide, we’ll walk through the ingredients, cooking instructions, and even give you some handy tips to elevate this recipe, ensuring you get the most out of each spoonful.

Chicken And Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is a cozy, one-pot wonder, perfect for those days when you need something simple yet flavorful. The tender chicken and sweet potatoes meld together in a savory broth, creating the kind of soup you can keep coming back to.

Here’s how we break it down:

• Total Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 people
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients for this soup are simple, fresh, and full of flavor. You likely have most of them already in your kitchen, which makes this recipe even more appealing.

Protein & Base

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs (about 2-3 breasts or 4 thighs) – The chicken is the backbone of the soup, giving it that protein-packed substance.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Used to sauté the chicken and veggies, bringing out their flavors while adding richness.

Vegetables & Carbs

• Sweet Potatoes (2 medium-sized) – These add a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory broth.
• Carrots (2 large) – For a mild sweetness and slight crunch, balancing the soft texture of the potatoes.
• Onion (1 medium) – Adds a bit of aromatic sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must-have for enhancing the depth of the broth with its rich, savory notes.

Broth & Seasonings

• Chicken Broth (4 cups) – The liquid that brings everything together, adding flavor and moisture.
• Bay Leaves (2) – To infuse the broth with subtle herbal undertones.
• Thyme (1 teaspoon dried or a few sprigs of fresh) – Pairs perfectly with the chicken, giving the soup an earthy aroma.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a hint of smokiness, balancing out the sweetness from the potatoes.
• Coconut Milk (1 cup) (optional) – For a creamy texture and a touch of richness.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together. The steps are pretty straightforward, but let’s make sure we’re clear on all the details.

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika.
   • Sear the chicken on both sides for 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet-just browned. Remove it from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté The Veggies

   • In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onions and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
   • Add in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to become fragrant.

3. Cook The Soup

   • Once the onions and garlic are softened, add in the diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring everything to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

4. Shred The Chicken

   • While the soup is simmering, shred the chicken. You can use two forks to pull it apart once it’s cool enough to handle.
   • Add the shredded chicken back into the soup along with any juices that might have accumulated.

5. Final Touches

   • Stir everything together and simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika to your liking.
   • If you’re using coconut milk, pour it in at the end for a creamy texture, and stir to combine.

6. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley (optional), and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a deeper look at some of the key ingredients in this recipe:

• Sweet Potatoes – Not just sweet, but also packed with vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for immune function and skin health. Their natural sweetness balances out the savory flavors of the chicken and broth.
• Chicken – A lean protein that’s easy to digest and a fantastic source of B-vitamins. It adds substance and a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes perfectly.
• Olive Oil – A heart-healthy fat that aids in the absorption of the vitamins from the veggies. It’s also great for sautéing since it has a relatively high smoke point and brings a rich flavor to the dish.
• Coconut Milk – While not traditionally used in many soups, it can lend a creamy texture and a mild, tropical sweetness that enhances the soup’s overall richness. Plus, it’s dairy-free, making it a great option for those with lactose sensitivities.

Expert Tips

To elevate your chicken and sweet potato soup, consider the following tips:

• Use Bone-In Chicken: For even richer flavor, try using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. The bones will infuse the broth with additional depth.
• Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Soups like this often taste even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.
• Spices and Herbs: Experiment with adding other spices like cumin, coriander, or a dash of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can also brighten up the final dish.
• Textural Variations: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it partially or completely. You can use an immersion blender for a more velvety texture. If you like a chunkier soup, leave it as is!

Recipe Variations

This recipe is versatile enough to allow for a few creative twists. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add Greens: Throw in a handful of spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to give the soup a fiery twist.
• Lentils or Beans: For extra protein and fiber, try adding lentils or white beans to the soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap out the sweet potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini to reduce the carb content without sacrificing flavor.

Final Words

Chicken and sweet potato soup isn’t just a meal-it’s a complete experience. The combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins makes this soup a nourishing option that can comfort you on a chilly day or keep you fueled throughout the week. Plus, it’s so customizable, you can make it your own with a few tweaks and additions.

Whether you’re a soup enthusiast or just someone looking to add a healthy meal to your rotation, this recipe is sure to be a hit.