If you're looking for a cozy meal that warms both body and soul, an Easy Chicken and Mushroom Soup might be just what you need. This dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic onions in a rich broth that's both comforting and nutritious. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll find it's perfect for busy evenings or meal prep. Curious about how to make it and the best ways to customize it?
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Start by sautéing onions in olive oil until translucent, then add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic for flavor enhancement.
- Introduce diced chicken and chicken broth, allowing the mixture to simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the cooked chicken, return it to the pot, and add heavy cream or alternative dairy-free options like coconut milk if desired.
- Customize the soup by incorporating different mushrooms, herbs, or spices to suit personal taste preferences.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience.
How To Make It – Recipe
To make a delicious and comforting Chicken and Mushroom Soup, you'll need to gather fresh ingredients and set aside some time to let the flavors meld together. This soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you're in need of a hearty meal. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying dish that can be served on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
Start by prepping your ingredients, as having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. This recipe is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for novice cooks and busy families alike. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a warm bowl of soup that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're softened.
Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the sliced carrots, chicken broth, and water. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer soup and let it heat through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
For the best results, consider using homemade chicken broth for a deeper flavor. You can also customize the soup by adding other vegetables like peas or corn, or by adjusting the herbs to suit your taste.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mixing cornstarch with a bit of water) during the last few minutes of cooking. Enjoy your Chicken and Mushroom Soup with some fresh bread or a light salad for a complete meal!
Cooking Steps
To start bringing your chicken and mushroom soup to life, you'll begin by sautéing onions until they're beautifully translucent.
Then, add in sliced mushrooms and garlic, letting their aromas fill your kitchen.
Once those flavors meld, it's time to introduce the chicken and broth, setting the stage for a comforting simmer. This combination creates a rich flavor profile that enhances the overall dish.
Step 1. Sauté Onions Until Translucent
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, and watch as it shimmers invitingly.
Toss in your choice of onion varieties—yellow or sweet work beautifully. Using sauté techniques, stir occasionally until the onions turn translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
This step lays the flavorful foundation for your chicken and mushroom soup, enhancing every bite.
Step 2. Add Sliced Mushrooms and Garlic
Once your onions are perfectly sautéed and fragrant, it's time to elevate the flavor profile by adding the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic.
Choose a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini and shiitake for depth. As the garlic cooks, it releases its powerful benefits, enhancing the aroma and taste of your soup.
Stir well, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3. Add Chicken and Broth
Stir in the diced chicken, letting it mingle with the sautéed mushrooms and garlic for a minute to absorb those rich flavors.
Choose your favorite chicken types, like breasts or thighs, for ideal texture.
Next, pour in your selected broth variations—chicken, vegetable, or even bone broth—to deepen the taste.
This combination creates a hearty base for your delicious soup.
Step 4. Simmer Until Chicken Is Cooked
As the broth begins to bubble gently, let the chicken simmer away, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Keep an eye on the cooking time; around 20-25 minutes should do it.
You'll know it's ready when the chicken reaches a perfect tenderness, easily shredding with a fork.
This slow cooking guarantees each bite is packed with rich, comforting flavor.
Step 5. Add Seasoning to Taste
Seasoning makes all the difference in transforming your chicken and mushroom soup into a delightful dish.
Start by tasting your soup, then adjust with salt and pepper to enhance those rich flavor profiles.
Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for seasoning variations that elevate your creation.
A dash of garlic powder or paprika can also introduce a new depth to the overall taste.
Substitution Suggestions
If you're in a pinch or just want to mix things up, there are plenty of substitution options for this chicken and mushroom soup that won't compromise flavor.
Consider using tofu or chickpeas as alternative proteins for a vegetarian twist.
For dairy-free options, swap cream with coconut milk or cashew cream to maintain that creamy texture without the dairy.
Additionally, you can enhance the flavor by incorporating cream of mushroom soup as a base for a richer taste.
Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
Once you've crafted your delicious chicken and mushroom soup, it's time to think about how to present it for maximum enjoyment.
Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives as garnish options to brighten the flavors. Additionally, serving it alongside crusty bread enhances the overall dining experience by providing a hearty contrast to the soup's creamy texture.
Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad as side dishes to complement the richness of the soup, creating a satisfying meal that delights the senses.
Make-Ahead and Storage
While you might be tempted to enjoy your chicken and mushroom soup fresh off the stove, making it ahead of time can enhance its flavors and save you valuable cooking time during busy days.
Use make-ahead techniques like simmering the soup a day prior. Additionally, slow cooker recipes can simplify the process, allowing you to prepare meals effortlessly.
For soup storage, cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers, ensuring freshness for later enjoyment.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
To guarantee your leftover chicken and mushroom soup remains delicious, start by storing it properly.
Transfer the soup into an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours. For longer storage, freeze it in portions. Leftover chicken and mushroom soup can stay fresh for up to three months when frozen.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, use gentle reheating techniques like simmering on the stove or microwaving in intervals, ensuring it's heated thoroughly without losing flavor.
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
When you savor a bowl of chicken and mushroom soup, you not only indulge in a comforting dish but also enjoy a range of nutritional benefits.
Each serving typically boasts around 250 calories, making it a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Plus, its protein content is impressive, offering about 20 grams per serving, helping you feel full and nourished.
Additionally, this soup is enriched with canned chicken which contributes to its hearty flavor and nutritional profile.
Enjoy this wholesome delight!
Final Thoughts
Enjoying a bowl of chicken and mushroom soup not only satisfies your hunger but also leaves you feeling good about your meal choices.
With endless soup variations, you can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste.
Remember these cooking tips: use fresh herbs for brightness and adjust seasoning to enhance flavors. Adding cream of mushroom soup can elevate the dish's richness and depth of flavor.
Immerse yourself in this comforting dish, and savor every spoonful!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Soup Recipe?
Imagine unwrapping frozen chicken, ready to transform into a warm, hearty meal. You can use frozen chicken, but adjust cooking times to guarantee it's fully cooked and tender, creating a delicious soup that's worth the wait.
What Type of Mushrooms Work Best in This Soup?
For your soup, shiitake mushrooms bring a rich, earthy flavor, while cremini mushrooms add a delightful depth. Combining both creates a hearty, savory experience that elevates your dish to a whole new level. Enjoy experimenting!
Is This Soup Gluten-Free?
You might wonder if this soup's gluten-free. It can be, especially with gluten-free alternatives like cornstarch for soup thickening. Just guarantee all ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you're good to enjoy a hearty bowl!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Absolutely, you can add other vegetables! Experiment with various vegetable combinations like carrots, peas, or spinach. These soup variations not only enhance flavor but also boost nutrition, making your dish even more delightful and satisfying.
How Spicy Is This Chicken and Mushroom Soup?
This chicken and mushroom soup has a mild spice that enhances the flavor balance without overwhelming your palate. You'll enjoy a comforting warmth, perfect for satisfying your cravings without too much heat.
