If you are craving a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces and earthy mushrooms swimming in a luxuriously smooth broth that’s rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying. Every spoonful promises to wrap you in a velvety, flavorful experience that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough to impress family or friends. This soup truly captures that cozy, homemade feeling we all adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this soup is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. From the fragrant garlic to the creamy finish, these basics come together effortlessly to create a standout dish.
- 2 tbsp butter: Provides a rich, silky base that helps bring out the flavors of the veggies and chicken.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced: Brings an earthy, umami punch that perfectly complements the chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a gentle zing and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Tender and lean, it’s the hearty protein star of this soup.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The liquid gold that carries and melds all flavors together seamlessly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds a luscious, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors in harmony.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe
Step 1: Melt the butter and sauté your veggies
Start by melting the butter in a pot over medium heat until it’s shimmering beautifully. Toss in your diced onions and sliced mushrooms, letting them cook together until they become tender and lightly browned. This step builds a fantastic flavor foundation through caramelization, which is key to a soup that sings.
Step 2: Add garlic and cook briefly
Once your onions and mushrooms have softened, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it just long enough to awaken its aroma—about 30 seconds—without letting it turn bitter. Garlic adds that necessary hint of savoriness that complements both the chicken and mushrooms.
Step 3: Add chicken and broth, then simmer
Next, add your chicken breasts to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to infuse the broth wonderfully.
Step 4: Shred chicken and return to pot
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. This creates tender strands that disperse throughout the soup. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, ensuring every bite is packed with that satisfying texture.
Step 5: Stir in heavy cream and heat gently
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Heat the soup just until warm—do not let it boil at this stage to keep the cream from curdling. This step is what transforms the soup into the creamy, silky sensation you’re aiming for.
Step 6: Season and serve
Finally, taste and add salt and pepper as you like. Seasoning is personal, so don’t hesitate to adjust until it feels just right. Your Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your soup presentation and flavor, consider a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top adds a little visual appeal and a subtle kick. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of truffle oil or a few shavings of Parmesan can make it feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This soup loves company. Serve it alongside crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls to sop up all that creamy goodness. A fresh green side salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the richness, making the meal even more satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls, turning each serving into a cozy, edible experience. Ladle it over a bed of rice or alongside buttery mashed potatoes for heartier appetites. You could even top it with croutons or crispy fried onions to add delightful texture contrasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, transfer any leftover soup into airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe freezes beautifully if you want to save some for a rainy day. Just let it cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months without losing its comforting flavor and creamy texture.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain that luscious creaminess and prevent curdling. You can add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more richness and juiciness, which works wonderfully in this soup. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a touch longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative like cashew cream. It won’t be quite the same classic flavor, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Dried mushrooms can add intense flavor, but you’ll want to soak them in warm water first to rehydrate. Use the soaking liquid (strained to remove grit) as part of your broth for an extra mushroom punch.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Simply thin it out by stirring in extra chicken broth or a bit of water while reheating. Adjust seasoning afterwards to keep the taste balanced.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
The secret is to add the cream near the end of cooking and warm it gently without boiling. Stir frequently and keep the heat low to maintain that perfectly silky texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully soothing about a bowl of homemade Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe. It’s an effortless way to enjoy hearty, tender chicken and earthy mushrooms wrapped in a velvety broth that feels like a little luxury in every bite. Whether you’re making it for yourself, family, or friends, I promise this recipe will become a favorite you revisit time and time again.
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Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup Recipe
A rich and creamy chicken and mushroom soup featuring tender chicken breast simmered with savory mushrooms in a smooth, comforting broth, perfect for chilly days or a cozy meal.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 6 cups chicken broth
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat Butter: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, which helps develop deep flavors.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to one minute, taking care not to burn it.
- Simmer Chicken: Place the whole chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred the meat using two forks, then return the shredded chicken back to the soup pot.
- Add Cream and Heat Gently: Stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup gently, ensuring it does not boil, to prevent curdling and maintain creaminess.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot for a comforting, hearty meal.
Notes
- Do not boil the soup after adding the cream to avoid curdling.
- For a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
