When the days get shorter and the chill begins to creep in, there’s nothing like a bowl of warm, creamy soup to soothe the soul. This Creamy Slow Cooker Potato and Chicken Tenderloin Soup is everything you need to embrace the cozy season. It’s a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and convenience in one pot, making it a perfect choice for busy nights or leisurely weekends. Here’s a look at why this recipe might just become your new go-to.
Why We Love This Recipe
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have a creamy, hearty soup that’s packed with wholesome ingredients. This recipe calls for tender chicken pieces, creamy potatoes, and a variety of veggies, all melded together in a rich, cheesy broth. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavor, thanks to the dried herbs, creamy cheese, and savory chicken broth.
The Ingredients: A Blend of Comfort and Wholesomeness
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- Chicken Tenderloin: Cubed and pre-cooked, the chicken tenderloin adds a delicate protein that complements the creamy potatoes and broth.
- Potatoes: The diced potatoes give this soup its heartiness and help thicken the broth as they cook down.
- Vegetables: Carrots, corn, peas, onion, and garlic make this soup a nutritional powerhouse, adding color and natural sweetness.
- Broth and Milk: Chicken broth forms the base, while milk and cheese add richness and creaminess.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper bring warmth and depth to the dish.
- Optional Parsley Garnish: For a fresh finish, a sprinkle of parsley adds a nice touch of color.
Cooking Instructions: Slow Cooker Magic
The beauty of this recipe is in the slow cooker. By simply adding the ingredients, you allow the flavors to meld together over several hours without much hands-on time. Here’s how to bring this cozy dish together:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the cubed chicken tenderloin in a skillet until it’s fully cooked, then add onions and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
- Load the Slow Cooker: Transfer the chicken, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker, then add the diced potatoes and chicken broth.
- Slow Cook: Let the slow cooker work its magic on low for 6-7 hours. This long cooking time allows the potatoes to soften and meld with the broth, creating a creamy, thick texture.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk, cheese, and remaining vegetables, along with the dried herbs. The cheese will melt, and the vegetables will become perfectly tender.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and black pepper to taste, and garnish with parsley if desired. Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of every spoonful.
Why It’s Perfect for Cozy Nights
This soup is an all-in-one meal that’s filling and flavorful without needing sides. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet gentle on the palate, making it perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to reheat for leftovers, so you can enjoy its comforting taste all week long.
Tips for Success
- Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture, as they hold up well and provide creaminess as they break down in the slow cooker.
- Use fresh or frozen vegetables to add vibrant color and maintain a slightly firm texture. Frozen corn and peas work especially well in this recipe.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese. Shredded cheddar cheese gives this soup its comforting richness, so be sure to stir it in well to distribute the creamy goodness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that requires little fuss, this Creamy Slow Cooker Potato and Chicken Tenderloin Soup is it. Whether you’re a slow-cooker enthusiast or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken soup, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Grab a bowl, snuggle up, and let the warmth of this delicious soup take the chill away!
Creamy Slow Cooker Potato and Chicken Tenderloin Soup
Description
Warm up your soul with this creamy and comforting potato and chicken tenderloin soup. Made effortlessly in the slow cooker, it’s perfect for cozy nights and lazy weekends. Packed with tender pieces of chicken and wholesome vegetables, every spoonful is a delight.
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenderloin, cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups diced potatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
– In a large skillet, cook the cubed chicken tenderloin over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess liquid.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
– Transfer the cooked chicken, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Add Potatoes and Broth:
– Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on Low:
– Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Incorporate Remaining Ingredients:
– About 30 minutes before serving, add the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, frozen corn, frozen peas, diced carrots, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir well and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Season and Serve:
– Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.