Introduction

Mushroom chicken soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Combining tender chicken with savory mushrooms in a rich, creamy broth creates a flavorful soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this mushroom chicken soup is a fantastic choice. Follow these easy steps to make a delicious soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Chicken

  • Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Cook Chicken: Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  • Cook Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Make the Soup Base

  • Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  • Add Broth and Cream: Gradually stir in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Add Chicken and Seasonings

  • Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. If using frozen peas, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

5. Serve the Soup

  • Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips for the Best Mushroom Chicken Soup

  • Use Fresh Herbs: For the best flavor, use fresh thyme and rosemary if possible. If using dried herbs, adjust the quantity to taste.
  • Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can stir in a slurry of flour and water or use a hand blender to partially blend the soup.
  • Add Extra Vegetables: Customize your soup by adding other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This creamy mushroom chicken soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it to guests, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this homemade soup!