Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my favorite fall recipe – Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup! This dish is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s hearty, creamy, and just bursting with flavor. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but think of cozy evenings spent with family gathered around the dinner table, laughing and exchanging stories. There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly night, and this one always hits the spot.
What’s special about this recipe is how adaptable it is; you can tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Plus, it’s the kind of soup that makes wonderful leftovers for lunch the next day (if it lasts that long!). And trust me, when your friends get a whiff of this soup simmering on the stove, they’ll be knocking on your door!
What’s in Creamy Chicken + Mushroom Soup?
Let’s break down the ingredients that combine to make this delightful dish:
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease, but feel free to use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
Mushrooms: I adore using a mix of cremini and white mushrooms for a variety of textures – they’re earthy and provide that deep umami flavor that makes this soup so savory.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples are essential. They lay the flavor foundation and elevate the soup to another level. There’s just something about the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic that feels like a warm hug.
Chicken Broth: The broth not only adds moisture but also infuses the soup with additional chicken flavor. I like to go for low-sodium broth; that way, I can control the saltiness.
Heavy Cream: This is where the creaminess comes from! It gives the soup that luxurious, velvety finish that makes it irresistible. If you want to lighten it up a bit, you can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Thyme: Fresh or dried, thyme complements the chicken and mushrooms beautifully, adding a lovely herbal note to the soup.
Is Creamy Chicken + Mushroom Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrition, but like anything, moderation is key.
Chicken Breast: A great source of lean protein that is low in fat. It’s essential for muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
Mushrooms: These little gems are low in calories and provide essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants, which help support the immune system.
Heavy Cream: While it does add rich flavor and a silky texture, it is higher in calories and saturated fat. If you prefer a lighter version, I highly recommend opting for low-fat dairy options or using less cream!
Ingredients List
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup of cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup of white mushrooms, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 generous portions.
How to Make Creamy Chicken + Mushroom Soup?
1. **Cook the Chicken:** In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 7-8 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside to cool.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they’re fragrant.
3. **Add the Mushrooms:** Toss in the sliced mushrooms and thyme, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and tender.
4. **Shred the Chicken:** While the mushrooms are cooking, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. **Combine Everything:** Pour in the chicken broth, and add the shredded chicken back to the pot. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to mingle all those delicious flavors.
6. **Stir in the Cream:** Finally, add the heavy cream, stir well, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
7. **Serve:** Ladle into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Meal
Want to take your soup game to the next level? Pair it with some crusty bread, or maybe a warm baguette for dipping! You could even add a side salad for a refreshing crunch. If you like a bit of zing, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can brighten it right up!
So, there you have it! I hope you’re as excited to try this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup as I always am when I make it. Grab your ingredients, put that favorite playlist on, and let’s get cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!
