Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup

Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup. Imagine the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender chicken mingles with earthy mushrooms, enveloped in a creamy, dreamy broth. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up. Did you know that cream of mushroom soup has been a staple in many households since the early 20th century? It’s a classic recipe that brings families together, and there’s a good reason why! Its simplicity, quick cooking time, and hearty flavor make it a weeknight winner. If you love recipes that feel gourmet yet are easy enough for beginners, you’ll find this soup is right up your alley. Think of it as a cozy counterpart to a classic chicken noodle soup; while both are comforting, this creamy version takes the flavor to new heights. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

What is Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup?

So, what’s the deal with Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup? You might wonder why such a humble dish has garnered so much love over the years. Is it the tantalizing combination of succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, and that silky creaminess? You bet! The name itself might throw you off, but it’s essentially a chef’s way of saying, “I want to keep things simple yet extraordinary!” And isn’t that how the age-old adage goes? “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” With this soup, you can’t go wrong! Whether you’re impressing your family or treating yourself, it’s a dish that promises delight. Don’t just take my word for it; roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a whirl!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup:

This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons! First, the star of the dish is undoubtedly the creamy texture that wraps around tender pieces of chicken and mushrooms, pouring comfort straight into your soul. Next, making this soup at home is cost-effective. You can whip up a generous batch without breaking the bank. Say goodbye to store-bought options that lack the freshness and flavor of homemade goodness! Finally, the delightful combination of fresh herbs and spices elevates the soup, making each spoonful a savory experience. You might even find this dish rivaling another beloved comfort food, like a hearty pot pie! So why wait? Give it a try and experience the magic of this chicken soup.

How to Make Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup:

Quick Overview

Making Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup is not only easy, but it’s also rewarding. With a prep time of around 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready in less than an hour. The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory chicken, rich cream, and umami-packed mushrooms, making it satisfyingly filling yet pleasingly light.

Key Ingredients for Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced, any variety)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or mushroom-flavored cream)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

3. Add the Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

5. Final Touches: Stir in the heavy cream, letting the soup heat through for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

What to Serve Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup With:

Pair your Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside warm, crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every drop of the creamy soup. A fresh salad with crisp greens or a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the soup. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, a simple glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the dish beautifully!

Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup:

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option!
• Timing Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry for a quick thicken.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Be sure not to overcook the chicken; it can become tough. Also, fresh mushrooms will provide a deeper flavor compared to canned options.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

To store any leftovers, place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, where it can be stored for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

This Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe is waiting to become a family favorite. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful experience of creating this delicious dish in your own kitchen!

Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup

This comforting Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup features tender chicken and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (any variety)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth, low sodium
• 1 cup heavy cream (or mushroom-flavored cream)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, letting the soup heat through for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry for quick thickening. Avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain its tenderness.