Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe

The Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe is a cozy dish that hits the spot, especially on chilly days. It brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a medley of flavors to create a heartwarming bowl of goodness. This soup is great for lunch, dinner, or just a quick meal when you need something comforting. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup that everyone will love.

What is Chicken Mushroom Soup?

Chicken mushroom soup is a creamy delight that combines chicken, mushrooms, vegetables, and herbs. It’s smooth and velvety, with an earthy taste from the mushrooms that complements the chicken perfectly. This soup can be enjoyed on its own or served with bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients for Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe

To make a scrumptious chicken mushroom soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Main Ingredients
    • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
    • 8 oz mushrooms (sliced, any type works)
    • 1 cup carrots (diced)
    • 1 cup celery (diced)
    • 1 medium onion (chopped)
    • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
    • 1 cup heavy cream (for creaminess)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
    • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
    • Salt and pepper (to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
    • 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup potatoes (diced, for extra heartiness)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of flavor)
  • Cornstarch (mixed with water for thickening, if desired)

How to Make Chicken Mushroom Soup

Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until fragrant.
  3. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften.
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Add Mushrooms

  1. Mushroom Magic: Add the sliced mushrooms to the mix. Cook until they are soft and have released their moisture, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Incorporate the Chicken and Broth

  1. Chicken Goes In: Next, add the cooked chicken to the pot.
  2. Pour Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil.
  3. Spice It Up: Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Make It Creamy

  1. Cream Time: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. This is what makes your soup luscious and flavorful.
  2. Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in at this stage. Allow it to bubble for a few more minutes until thickened.

Serve

  1. Taste Test: Give your soup a taste and adjust any seasonings as needed.
  2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Tips for the Best Chicken Mushroom Soup

  • Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
  • Mushroom Variety: Play around with different kinds of mushrooms like cremini, button, or even shiitake for a unique twist.
  • Make Ahead: You can make this soup a day ahead. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How to Serve Chicken Mushroom Soup

Chicken mushroom soup can be served in various ways:

  • With Crusty Bread: A warm crusty baguette or a slice of sourdough pairs wonderfully with the soup.
  • Over Rice or Noodles: Serve it over cooked rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
  • With a Salad: A fresh salad on the side adds a nice touch and balances the richness of the soup.
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Storage Tips for Chicken Mushroom Soup

If you want to save some soup for later, follow these storage tips:

  • Refrigerate: Store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: If you want to make a larger batch, freezing it works too. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations of Chicken Mushroom Soup

Feel free to experiment with this recipe. Here are some fun variations:

  • Add Greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
  • Use Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey or cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
  • Make it Spicy: Add some crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Mushroom Soup

Chicken mushroom soup not only warms your soul but is also packed with nutrients:

  • Protein: Chicken provides a good portion of protein, helping you feel full longer.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables add various vitamins, making it a healthy option.
  • Mushrooms: They’re low in calories and high in antioxidants, giving your immune system a boost.

The Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe is a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. With its rich flavors and comforting nature, it’s hard not to love every spoonful. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor that is sure to please everyone at the table.