Name: Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1.5 cups chopped onion; 0.75 cups thinly sliced celery; 0.75 cups thinly sliced carrots; 1 pound sliced baby portobello (cremini) mushrooms; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (white or dark meat, or both); 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 0.75 cups heavy cream; 5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped; salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); fresh parsley, thyme, or snipped chives (for garnish, optional)

Introduction to Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Have you ever craved a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s both rich in flavor and easy to make? Creamy chicken and mushroom soup is just what you need! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a silky cream base that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Plus, making it at home means you can control the ingredients and tweak the flavors to your liking.

Why Make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup at Home?

There are plenty of reasons to whip up this savory soup in your own kitchen:

Quick and Convenient: Using store-bought rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time, making this a great option for busy weeknights. In just 35 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to go!
Nutritional Benefits: Packed with vegetables, vitamins, and protein, this soup doesn’t just comfort you; it nourishes you too. Research indicates that soups can help boost hydration and may offer health benefits like improved digestion.
Endless Customization: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings. Love a bit of spice? Toss in some red pepper flakes for a kick!

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply seeking a cozy dinner option, this creamy chicken and mushroom soup will deliver on all fronts. So, let’s get cooking! For a deeper dive into the health benefits of homemade soups, check out Healthline’s article.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

When it comes to whipping up a delicious bowl of creamy chicken and mushroom soup, having the right ingredients on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:

1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
1 ½ cups chopped onion to build a flavorful base
¾ cup thinly sliced celery for crunch
¾ cup thinly sliced carrots for natural sweetness
1 pound sliced baby portobello mushrooms; their earthy flavor elevates the dish
5 cloves garlic, minced for a fragrant touch
1 teaspoon herbes de Provence—a mix of savory herbs perfect for soups
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth as the heart of the soup
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; an easy shortcut that saves time
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
¾ cup heavy cream to achieve that luscious creaminess
5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped for a boost of color and nutrition
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, thyme, or snipped chives for garnish (optional)

With these simple ingredients, you can create a creamy chicken and mushroom soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Don't forget to check out this guide for more creative ideas on soup variations!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Gather your ingredients

The secret to a delicious creamy chicken and mushroom soup lies in the quality and freshness of your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ cups chopped onion
¾ cup thinly sliced celery
¾ cup thinly sliced carrots
1 pound sliced baby portobello (cremini) mushrooms
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¾ cup heavy cream
5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish, like parsley or thyme

You can find many of these ingredients at your local grocery store or farmers’ market. Choosing fresh vegetables will elevate the overall flavor.

Sauté the vegetables

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready. Toss in the onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these aromatics until the onions become translucent — around 3 minutes should do the trick. This step not only builds a flavor foundation but also makes your kitchen smell amazing!

Add the mushrooms and aromatics

Next, it’s mushroom time! Add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will soften the mushrooms and release their earthy flavor, making your creamy chicken and mushroom soup even more delightful. As you reach that fragrant moment, mix in the garlic and herbes de Provence. Cook for about 30 seconds, just enough to make the garlic fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and chicken

Now, it’s time to take it up a notch! Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add your shredded rotisserie chicken along with the optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Bring everything to a boil, then cover your pot and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Stir in the cream and spinach

Once your soup has simmered, it’s the moment of creamy magic! Take a small bowl and mix the heavy cream with a couple of tablespoons of hot broth to warm it gently. Then, while stirring the pot, slowly pour in the warmed cream. This technique prevents curdling and ensures an ultra-smooth texture. Don’t forget to add the chopped spinach at this point, simmering until just wilted.

Season and serve

Finally, it’s time to season your masterpiece! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the steaming creamy chicken and mushroom soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for that finishing touch.

Now, gather your friends or family and dig in—you’ve just created a heartwarming dish that’s sure to impress!

Variations of Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Add some heat with red pepper flakes

For a delightful twist on your creamy chicken and mushroom soup, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. This simple addition brings a warm kick that can elevate the flavors and give your soup a satisfying depth. You can start with ½ teaspoon, adjusting to your heat preference. It’s a great way to make the soup feel cozy on a chilly day!

Spice it up with different herbs

Experimenting with herbs can completely change your creamy chicken and mushroom soup game! While herbes de Provence adds a lovely aromatic note, fresh rosemary or thyme can lend a beautiful earthiness. Don’t shy away from adding dill for a bright twist or basil for a touch of sweetness. Incorporating these different herbs not only enhances flavor but also boosts your soup's nutritional profile. What will your favorite combination be?

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Use rotisserie chicken for ease

One of the best shortcuts when making this creamy chicken and mushroom soup is to use rotisserie chicken. It saves you time on cooking and shredding the chicken while still delivering incredible flavor. Just pick up a pre-cooked bird from your local grocery store, and you’re ready to go!

Fresh herbs make a difference

Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs in elevating your soup. Adding a mix of parsley, thyme, or even snipped chives as a garnish can brighten up your dish. Fresh herbs not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a burst of flavor that dried versions simply can’t match. If you’re curious about the benefits of cooking with fresh herbs, check out this insightful article on Herb Health Benefits.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Pair with crusty bread

Nothing complements a warm bowl of creamy chicken and mushroom soup quite like a slice of crusty bread. The crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make for a delightful contrast, perfect for soaking up the velvety soup. Sourdough or a rustic baguette works best, adding texture and a touch of artisanal flair. Warm the bread slightly for an extra touch of comfort.

Serve with a side salad

For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your soup with a light side salad. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy richness of the soup. Try adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even nuts for extra flavor. Not only will this enhance your dining experience, but it also provides additional nutrients to fuel your day!

For more salad ideas, check out this healthy salad guide.

Time Breakdown for Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Preparation Time

Gather your ingredients and chop the veggies in just 15 minutes. A little prep goes a long way in ensuring a smooth cooking process!

Cooking Time

Once you dive into cooking, it takes about 20 minutes to whip up this delicious creamy chicken and mushroom soup. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!

Total Time

In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Quick meals don't have to skimp on flavor!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Calories

A hearty serving of this creamy chicken and mushroom soup packs in approximately 289 calories. It's a nutritious option that won't derail your daily calorie count, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Protein

You’ll enjoy a healthy dose of protein in each bowl, with about 22 grams per serving. This is ideal for those looking to support muscle maintenance and keep energy levels stabilized throughout the day.

Sodium

For those watching their salt intake, this soup contains around 354 mg of sodium. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps keep the flavor without exceeding your daily recommended limits.

This recipe balances flavor and nutrition, ensuring you feel good about serving it to yourself and your family. For more health insights, check out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines for personalized nutrition advice.

FAQs about Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Can I use frozen chicken?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great time-saver. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. If you’re in a rush, you can cook it from frozen; just increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before adding it to your creamy chicken and mushroom soup.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

If you want a dairy-free version, simply swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative. You can also use almond milk with a touch of nutritional yeast for added flavor. Both options will still give you a deliciously creamy texture without the dairy.

What are the best types of mushrooms to use?

Baby portobello (cremini) mushrooms are perfect for this recipe, but feel free to mix in shiitake, button, or even oyster mushrooms for a unique flavor twist. Each type adds its own special touch to the soup, enhancing the overall creaminess and depth of flavor.

For additional tips on ingredients, consider checking out The Mushroom Council for more expert recommendations!

Conclusion on Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

This delightful creamy chicken and mushroom soup is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience, thanks to the use of rotisserie chicken. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this soup is bound to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and warmth it brings to your table!

For similar recipes, check out Allrecipes for more comforting meal ideas.