Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup

Here’s a list of key ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Parmesan cheese for added richness
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they’re golden and softened, releasing their moisture and becoming fragrant. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the mushrooms, cooking until the onions become translucent and the garlic is aromatic.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Herbs

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in dried thyme and parsley, which will infuse the soup with a lovely herby flavor. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream

Slowly add the heavy cream to the pot, stirring gently to combine it with the broth. The cream will create a luxurious, smooth texture that makes this soup irresistible. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra touch of richness, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese at this point.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back In

Return the cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to ensure everything is well combined. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb all the creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the creamy chicken mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side or a green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup

1. Use Fresh Mushrooms: The type of mushroom you choose can influence the flavor. Cremini mushrooms (baby bellas) are more robust and earthy, while white button mushrooms have a milder taste.
2. Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can make a slurry of cornstarch and water, then stir it into the soup while it’s simmering.
3. Make It Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
4. Protein Alternatives: You can switch out chicken for turkey or even tofu if you want a vegetarian option. Just replace chicken broth with vegetable broth in that case.
5. Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Why This Soup Is So Comforting

The rich, creamy broth in this chicken mushroom soup is what makes it so comforting. Mushrooms add an earthy, umami quality, while the chicken provides a hearty, filling component. It’s a soup that wraps you in warmth and is perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it for a special gathering, this soup always feels like a comforting hug in a bowl.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup is an easy yet luxurious dish that combines the best of creamy and savory flavors. The chicken and mushrooms pair beautifully with the fragrant herbs, while the cream brings it all together into a rich and delicious meal. Simple to prepare, it can easily become a go-to recipe in your kitchen for any occasion.

Try this recipe the next time you need a comforting, delicious meal—and don’t forget to enjoy every creamy spoonful!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup? Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, soups with cream can sometimes separate when thawed, so it’s best to freeze it without the cream and add it after reheating.
2. Can I use other types of mushrooms? Absolutely! You can experiment with wild mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, or portobello to deepen the flavor.
3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. What can I serve with this soup? This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light green salad.
5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, simply cook the chicken and sauté the mushrooms first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add the cream during the last hour.