Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe

Chicken mushroom soup is a dish that embodies comfort, warmth, and the essence of home-cooked goodness. Whether served on a chilly evening, as a quick weeknight dinner, or as part of a larger family meal, this rich, creamy soup has a way of bringing people together with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Combining tender pieces of chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy base, this soup is the perfect blend of hearty ingredients that comfort the soul while delighting the taste buds.

The beauty of chicken mushroom soup lies in its versatility. It can be made in a variety of ways, ranging from a creamy and velvety texture to a light, broth-based version. The ingredients can be customized to suit personal preferences or dietary needs, making it easy to adapt the soup to fit any occasion. The combination of chicken and mushrooms offers a perfect balance of savory flavors, with the richness of the chicken complementing the earthy, umami-packed mushrooms.

Traditionally, chicken mushroom soup is made by simmering chicken and vegetables in a flavorful broth, which is then thickened with cream, flour, or a roux. This creates a soup that is both hearty and rich, yet not overwhelming. The mushrooms, often sautéed to develop their deep, savory flavor, add an extra layer of complexity to the soup, transforming it from a simple chicken soup into something more sophisticated and satisfying.

Not only is chicken mushroom soup delicious, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables. The recipe is flexible, meaning you can experiment with different types of mushrooms (from common white mushrooms to more exotic varieties like shiitake or cremini), as well as various herbs and spices to elevate the flavor profile. Adding a splash of white wine or a dash of cream can also enhance the richness and bring a touch of elegance to this humble soup.

For those looking to prepare a meal that is both nourishing and filling, chicken mushroom soup is an ideal choice. The chicken provides protein, while the mushrooms offer a variety of vitamins and minerals. If you opt for a creamy version, the soup can be a satisfying indulgence, offering a cozy, comforting meal that can be enjoyed year-round.

In this guide, we will walk you through a detailed, step-by-step process to make the perfect chicken mushroom soup from scratch. We’ll explore various techniques for preparing the soup, including tips for creating a rich, flavorful broth, sautéing the mushrooms to perfection, and adding the finishing touches that will elevate your soup to the next level.

Detailed Instructions for Making Chicken Mushroom Soup

Chicken mushroom soup is a dish that can be made in various styles, from a creamy, comforting bowl to a lighter broth-based version. The steps below will guide you through preparing a classic, rich, and creamy chicken mushroom soup, with tips and variations to help you customize it according to your preferences.

Ingredients for Chicken Mushroom Soup

This recipe will yield about 6 servings.

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or unsalted butter for a richer flavor)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds or half-moons

• 2 celery stalks, chopped (optional but adds depth of flavor)

• 8 oz fresh mushrooms (white button, cremini, shiitake, or a mix of your favorite mushrooms), sliced

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (from a rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts)

• 6 cups chicken broth (or 4 cups broth and 2 cups water for a lighter version)

• 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the soup, or you can use cornstarch for a gluten-free option)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, adds richness and umami)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a subtle brightness)

For the Creamy Finish:

• 1 cup heavy cream (for a rich, velvety texture)

• ½ cup whole milk (to balance the cream and lighten the soup a bit)

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Mushroom Soup

1. Prepare the Chicken:

If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can quickly poach some chicken breasts or thighs. Simply simmer the chicken in water or broth until cooked through (about 20-30 minutes). Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, just shred or chop it up, and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.

Next, add the sliced carrots and chopped celery (if using). Continue sautéing for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. This step helps develop the foundation of flavors in your soup.

3. Cook the Mushrooms:

Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Mushrooms have a lot of water content, so be patient while cooking them. Stir occasionally, and allow them to release their moisture and become browned and caramelized, about 6-8 minutes. If the mushrooms are sticking to the bottom of the pot, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen them up.

At this point, your kitchen should start to smell wonderfully savory, as the mushrooms begin to develop their rich umami flavor.

4. Add the Broth and Seasonings:

Once the vegetables and mushrooms are cooked, pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth (or 4 cups broth and 2 cups water). Stir everything together to combine. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary (if using), and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering time helps the flavors meld together and the vegetables to soften further. You can taste the broth during this time and adjust the seasonings as needed.

5. Thicken the Soup (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker soup, create a slurry by combining the 2 tablespoons of flour with about ¼ cup of cold water in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Then, add this slurry to the simmering soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The flour will help to thicken the soup and give it a creamy consistency.

If you’re avoiding gluten, you can use cornstarch instead of flour. Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then add it to the soup to thicken.

6. Add the Chicken:

Once the soup has thickened to your liking, add the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb the flavors from the broth. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.

7. Make It Creamy:

Once the chicken is fully incorporated, reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1 cup heavy cream and ½ cup milk. The cream will give the soup its velvety texture, while the milk helps balance the richness.

Stir gently to combine, and allow the soup to heat through, but do not let it boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle.

If you’d like to brighten up the flavor, add a small splash of lemon juice or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

8. Final Taste Check:

Taste the soup one last time and adjust the seasoning. If it needs more salt, pepper, or herbs, this is the time to make any final tweaks. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

9. Serve and Garnish:

Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

For an extra touch, you can serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad on the side.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Mushroom Soup

1. Choice of Mushrooms:
   Mushrooms are the star ingredient in this soup, so don’t hesitate to get creative. While white button mushrooms are the most common, try mixing in cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor or even shiitake mushrooms for a more earthy, rich taste. Using a variety of mushrooms will add complexity to the soup.

2. Use Homemade Chicken Broth:
   If possible, use homemade chicken broth or stock for a more robust, flavorful soup. Homemade broth has a richness that can elevate the entire dish. If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought broth can work just as well.

3. Adjust the Thickness:
   If you prefer a thinner soup, simply use less flour or cornstarch to thicken, or skip the thickening step entirely. Alternatively, if you like a creamy, chowder-like consistency, increase the amount of thickener.

4. Adding More Vegetables:
   Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup to increase its nutritional value or flavor. Chopped potatoes or leeks make great additions, or you can add a handful of spinach or kale for some leafy greens.

5. Make It Ahead of Time:
   Chicken mushroom soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 days, reheating it on the stovetop. It’s a great option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

6. Freezing the Soup:
   You can freeze this soup for later use, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream, as cream-based soups may change texture when frozen. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and stir in the cream when serving.

7. Substitute for Cream:
   For a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk (if you prefer a dairy-free option). If you use coconut milk, it will lend a subtle, tropical flavor that complements the mushrooms and chicken well.

8. Make It Spicy:
   If you like a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. A small spoonful of mustard or sriracha can also add an interesting tang.

Serving Suggestions

1. Bread:
   Serve the chicken mushroom soup with a side of garlic bread, a toasted baguette, or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious broth. You can even make grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo.

2. Salad:
   A light side salad with mixed greens, arugula, or baby spinach dressed in a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the soup.

3. Wine Pairing:
   For wine lovers, try pairing your soup with a light white wine like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. A glass of Pinot Noir works well if you prefer red wine.

Conclusion

Chicken mushroom soup is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, hearty bowl that combines the best of both worlds: tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, all in a creamy, flavorful broth. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for many variations to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a light, brothy meal or as a decadent, creamy dish, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.