Name: Leftover Chicken and Potato Soup: Easy Weeknight Comfort
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 37 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 onions, diced; 4 celery ribs, diced; 4 large carrots, diced; 2 large cloves garlic; 2 cups sliced mushrooms; 4 medium potatoes, scrubbed and diced; 2 quarts chicken stock; 2 cups leftover chicken, cubed into 1/2" pieces or smaller; 2 Tbsp onion flakes; 2 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning; 2 tsp granulated garlic; 2 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground or rubbed sage; 1 tsp ground thyme; 1 tsp pepper; 2 large fistfuls of kale

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There’s something magical about transforming yesterday’s roast chicken into today’s soul-warming bowl of comfort. When I first discovered how effortlessly leftover chicken and potato soup could rescue a busy Tuesday evening, I knew I’d found a keeper. This hearty, nourishing soup takes the stress out of weeknight dinners while delivering the kind of homestyle flavor that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

This leftover chicken and potato soup recipe is your answer to those “what’s for dinner?” moments when time is short but expectations are high. You’ll learn how to create a restaurant-quality soup using simple pantry staples and that precious leftover chicken sitting in your fridge. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why Leftover Chicken and Potato Soup Matters

In today’s fast-paced world, leftover chicken and potato soup represents everything we crave in home cooking: simplicity, comfort, and practicality. This isn’t just about using up leftovers—it’s about creating a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The tender potatoes, savory chicken, and aromatic vegetables come together in a symphony of flavors that even the pickiest eaters will embrace.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from one of those “aha!” moments in my kitchen when I realized that leftover roast chicken could be the star of something completely new. My grandmother always said that the best soups come from what you already have, and she was absolutely right. The combination of earthy potatoes, vibrant vegetables, and tender chicken creates a harmony that feels both familiar and special.

External Resources

While you’re creating this comforting leftover chicken and potato soup, you might enjoy exploring our hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup for another potato-based comfort option. For more warming meal ideas, check out our cozy fall soups and stews collection. To enhance your cooking experience, consider this stovetop simmer pot recipe for creating a welcoming aroma while you cook. For nutritional information about chicken, the USDA nutrition facts guide provides helpful details.

Ingredients

Everything You Need for Perfect Leftover Chicken and Potato Soup
2 Tbsp olive oil (that golden, fragrant foundation for flavor) 2 onions, diced (sweet and aromatic when softened) 4 celery ribs, diced (adds that essential savory crunch) 4 large carrots, diced (bringing natural sweetness and color) 2 large cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better) 2 cups sliced mushrooms (earthy depth that’s simply irresistible) 4 medium potatoes, scrubbed and diced (the hearty stars of our show) 2 quarts chicken stock (rich, warming liquid gold) 2 cups leftover chicken, cubed into 1/2″ pieces (tender, flavorful protein) 2 Tbsp onion flakes (concentrated onion flavor boost) 2 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning (herb blend perfection) 2 tsp granulated garlic (aromatic intensity) 2 tsp salt (flavor enhancer extraordinaire) 2 tsp ground or rubbed sage (earthy, warming spice) 1 tsp ground thyme (subtle, sophisticated herb note) 1 tsp pepper (gentle heat and complexity) 2 large fistfuls of kale (nutritious green goodness)

Ingredient Spotlight

The magic of this leftover chicken and potato soup lies in how each ingredient plays its part. The olive oil creates a flavorful base that coaxes sweetness from the onions and celery. Those humble potatoes transform into creamy, satisfying bites that make this soup truly filling. The combination of fresh garlic and granulated garlic gives layers of aromatic depth, while the Italian seasoning blend eliminates guesswork. The kale adds not just nutrition but a beautiful pop of color and slight earthiness that balances the richness perfectly.

Timing

Quick and Easy Timing Breakdown
Prep Time: 7 minutes (20% faster than most soup recipes) Cook Time: 30 minutes (perfect for weeknight schedules) Total Time: 37 minutes (dinner ready in under 40 minutes!) Servings: 6-8 generous bowls (perfect for families or meal prep) Hands-on Time: 15 minutes (mostly chopping and stirring)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Leftover Chicken and Potato Soup
Create Your Flavor Foundation Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots, cooking on medium until the onions just start to turn translucent. My grandmother always said this is when the kitchen starts to smell like home—that’s your cue that you’re on the right track. Build the Aromatic Base Add the mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the vegetables start to become soft. The mushrooms will release their moisture and concentrate their earthy flavor—this is where the soup really starts to develop its soul. Add the Hearty Elements Add the potatoes and chicken stock, bringing to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Test with a fork—they should yield easily but still hold their shape beautifully. Bring It All Together Add the leftover chicken, all seasonings, and kale. Cook until the kale is wilted and the chicken is heated through, about 5-10 minutes. The kale will turn that gorgeous deep green and become tender. Perfect the Seasoning Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your moment to make it truly yours—maybe a pinch more salt or an extra dash of pepper to suit your family’s preferences.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Leftover Chicken and Potato Soup

Pro Tips for Soup Success
Don’t Rush the Vegetables: Take time to properly soften your onions and celery—this creates the flavor foundation that makes the difference between good and amazing soup. Cut Potatoes Evenly: Uniform potato pieces ensure even cooking and prevent some from turning mushy while others remain firm. Add Kale at the End: Kale cooks quickly and can become bitter if overcooked. Adding it in the final minutes preserves its vibrant color and nutritional value. Taste as You Go: Every batch of stock is different, so adjust seasonings gradually and taste frequently to achieve your perfect flavor balance. Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 5 minutes after cooking—this lets all the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Transform your leftover chicken and potato soup with these creative twists. For busy parents, try adding frozen mixed vegetables in the last 10 minutes for extra nutrition without extra prep. Make it kid-friendly by omitting the kale and adding sweet corn kernels instead. For a dairy-free version, stir in a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. Create a hearty winter version by adding white beans and extra herbs for a more substantial meal.

Leftover & Reuse Ideas

This soup gets even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and don’t worry if it thickens—just add a splash of broth when reheating. Transform leftover soup into a completely new meal by serving it over rice or pasta. You can also use it as a base for pot pie filling by thickening it slightly with cornstarch and topping with biscuits or pastry.

Pairing Ideas

Serve your leftover chicken and potato soup with crusty artisan bread for dipping, or pair it with a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a cozy evening, consider warm buttermilk biscuits or cornbread on the side. A refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon complements the hearty flavors perfectly, while herbal tea makes a soothing finish to this comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions

Present this beautiful soup in warmed bowls to keep it hot longer. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. For special occasions, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh grated Parmesan cheese. Set the table with cloth napkins and warm bread—this simple soup deserves to be celebrated as the comfort food masterpiece it is.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings): Approximately 185 calories, 18g protein, 22g carbohydrates, 5g fat, 4g fiber. This soup provides excellent sources of vitamin A from carrots, vitamin C from potatoes, and iron from kale. The lean chicken protein supports muscle maintenance while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals for overall wellness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t worry—even experienced cooks make these common errors! Overcooking the potatoes can make them fall apart, so test them frequently with a fork. Adding the kale too early will make it bitter and mushy, so wait until the final minutes. Under-seasoning is another pitfall—this soup needs generous seasoning to bring out all the flavors. If your soup tastes flat, it probably needs more salt. Finally, don’t skip the resting time after cooking—those few minutes really do make a difference in flavor development.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store your leftover chicken and potato soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened too much. Heat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The soup may separate slightly when frozen, but a good stir will bring it back together beautifully.

Are leftover chicken and potato soup ingredients gluten-free?: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free chicken stock. Always check your stock label to ensure it doesn’t contain gluten-containing additives.
Can I make leftover chicken and potato soup in a slow cooker?: Absolutely! Add all ingredients except kale to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How long does leftover chicken and potato soup last in the refrigerator?: Properly stored in airtight containers, this soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after the first day!
What’s the best way to thicken leftover chicken and potato soup?: For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot, or mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the simmering soup.
Can I substitute other vegetables in leftover chicken and potato soup?: Yes! Try adding parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes. Green beans, peas, or spinach also work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.

Conclusion

A steaming bowl of leftover chicken and potato soup garnished with fresh herbs, served with crusty bread on a rustic wooden table

This leftover chicken and potato soup proves that the best comfort food comes from simple ingredients prepared with love. With its perfect balance of tender vegetables, hearty potatoes, and flavorful chicken, it’s destined to become your go-to weeknight rescue recipe. The 30-minute cooking time makes it practical for busy schedules, while the soul-warming flavors make it special enough for any occasion.

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Servings:

-8 servings

Author: Sarah Jenkins