Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: chicken mushroom soup! There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of this creamy goodness on a chilly day. I remember cozying up on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, with a steaming bowl in my hands, the rich aroma filling the air. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! The tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and that velvety creaminess create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially when the weather turns cold. This soup not only warms your body but also your soul. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why I can’t get enough of it!
Ingredients for Chicken Mushroom Soup
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded – I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for its flavor and ease!
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Any kind works, but I prefer cremini for their rich taste.
- 1 onion, chopped – This adds a lovely sweetness to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic base!
- 4 cups chicken broth – Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine in a pinch.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes it so wonderfully creamy and luxurious.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – A little fat to help sauté the veggies and add flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season well; it really brings all the flavors together!
How to Prepare Chicken Mushroom Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot so the veggies sizzle when they hit the pan!
- Once the oil is shimmering, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the kitchen smells amazing. Trust me, this is the aroma that kicks off your soup party!
- Now, it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re beautifully soft and have released their juices. This is where the flavor really starts to build, and you’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking.
- Next, stir in the shredded chicken and mix everything together. Let it warm up for about 2 minutes—this helps all those wonderful flavors meld together.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it, as it can bubble over if you’re not careful!
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This gives the soup time to develop that rich, comforting flavor. Don’t forget to taste it; this is the moment to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking!
- Finally, stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream for that luscious texture. Give it another quick stir and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through. And voila! You’ve got a creamy, dreamy chicken mushroom soup ready to be devoured.
- Serve it hot and enjoy every spoonful of this cozy creation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- Comforting Flavor: The rich combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy broth is like a warm hug for your taste buds!
- Hearty Texture: This soup is thick and satisfying, perfect for filling you up on those chilly days when you just want something cozy.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables, making it a fun recipe to play around with.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves this soup! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, so it’s great for family dinners.
- Leftover Friendly: It tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy the flavors all over again!
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and mushrooms. It really makes a difference in flavor! If you can, go for organic chicken and locally sourced mushrooms.
- Seasoning Matters: Don’t shy away from seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate. A little sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end can elevate the soup even further!
- Thicken It Up: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender. Just be cautious not to over-blend; you still want some chunky goodness!
- Herbs and Spices: Add a bay leaf while simmering for extra depth or sprinkle in some thyme or rosemary. These herbs complement the chicken and mushrooms beautifully!
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to toss in other veggies like carrots or celery. They add great texture and flavor, plus it’s a sneaky way to sneak in more nutrients!
- Leftover Love: This soup stores wonderfully! Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat With Care: When reheating, do it gently on the stove over low heat. This will help maintain that creamy consistency without curdling the cream.
Variations of Chicken Mushroom Soup
One of the things I absolutely love about this chicken mushroom soup is how versatile it is! You can take this base recipe and really make it your own with just a few tweaks. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley while the soup simmers. These herbs bring a wonderful fragrance and enhance the overall flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It adds a delightful warmth that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to throw in some diced carrots, celery, or even spinach for a nutritional boost. They add color and texture, making the soup even heartier!
- Mushroom Variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster mushrooms. Each type brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk. This change can also bring a lovely twist in flavor!
- Cheesy Delight: Add a handful of shredded cheese, like parmesan or cheddar, right before serving for a rich, cheesy finish that will make you swoon.
- Asian Twist: Incorporate some soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired take on the soup. You could even top it off with green onions for a fresh crunch!
So, don’t be afraid to get creative! The essence of this soup is its comforting base, and you can easily play around with ingredients to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Mushroom Soup
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed in this comforting bowl of chicken mushroom soup! Each serving is not only delicious but also quite satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per cup:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
These values are estimates based on the ingredients I’ve shared, and they can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and types you choose. But one thing’s for sure: you’re getting a hearty dose of protein and comfort in every spoonful! Enjoy knowing that you’re treating yourself to something nourishing while indulging in that creamy goodness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s chat about how to keep that delicious chicken mushroom soup fresh and ready for your next cozy moment! If you’ve got leftovers (which I highly recommend, because it tastes even better the next day), here’s what to do:
- Cooling Down: First, let the soup cool completely at room temperature. This step is super important because placing hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside, which isn’t safe!
- Airtight Containers: Once cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers. I love using glass containers for this since they don’t absorb odors and are easy to reheat.
- Storage Time: You can store your chicken mushroom soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you know you won’t finish it within that time, consider freezing it!
- Freezing: To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Just label your containers so you know what’s inside!
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ll want to do it gently to maintain that lovely creamy texture:
- Stovetop Method: The best way to reheat is on the stove over low heat. Just pour the soup into a pot, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This method helps keep the cream from curdling.
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave! Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Be careful, as it can get hot quickly!
And a little tip: if the soup has thickened up too much after refrigerating, just add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to bring it back to that lovely creamy consistency. Enjoy every last spoonful of your delightful chicken mushroom soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, just make sure to thaw it first. You can cook it in the pot along with the onions and garlic before adding the mushrooms. Just remember that it’ll take a little longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No problem! You can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the soup won’t be quite as rich and creamy, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it as usual, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can definitely make a vegetarian version by swapping out the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Just be sure to keep that lovely mushroom flavor in there!
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 4 servings, which is perfect for a cozy dinner or to share with friends. If you’re feeding a crowd, feel free to double the recipe!
Can I add different vegetables to the soup?
Of course! Feel free to toss in other veggies like carrots, celery, or even spinach. They’ll add great texture and nutrition, making the soup even heartier!
How can I adjust the sodium content?
If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and be mindful of how much salt you add during cooking. You can always add more seasoning later, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s in!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Just remember to label your containers for easy identification!
Chicken Mushroom Soup: 7 Amazing Benefits for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and creamy chicken mushroom soup that warms you up.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add mushrooms and cook until soft.
- Stir in shredded chicken.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- For a thicker soup, blend part of it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Mushroom Soup