There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly afternoon, and I assure you that my Rich & Flavorful Chicken Mushroom Soup is a hug in a bowl! This soup takes me back to cozy family dinners and rainy weekends spent sipping from large mugs while curling up under blankets. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort and joy, not to mention it’s simple enough to prepare on a whim.
What I love the most about this recipe is the depth of flavor from the rich broth and the wholesome goodness of chicken and mushrooms. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to indulge without too much fuss in the kitchen. Plus, it’s such a versatile dish! You can savor it as a light lunch or pair it with crusty bread for an evening meal. Okay, let’s dive in and get you set up to make this comforting creation!
What’s in Rich & Flavorful Chicken Mushroom Soup?
Chicken: For this recipe, I prefer using skinless chicken thighs. They keep the soup juicy and tender, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. If you’re more of a breast person, feel free to swap them out.
Mushrooms: I usually go for a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms. They’re packed with umami and add a wonderful earthiness to the soup. Fresh mushrooms are best, but if you have canned on hand, they’ll work too.
Onion, Carrots, Celery: This classic mirepoix combination forms a flavor foundation. Fresh veggies add sweetness and depth, giving the soup a lovely base.
Garlic: A bit of minced garlic is an absolute must! It not only adds flavor but also makes your kitchen smell incredible.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is always the best, but high-quality store-bought broth works like a charm too. I prefer low-sodium, so I can control the saltiness.
Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs bring warmth and complexity to the soup; they’re the unsung heroes that make it sing!
Salt & Pepper: Of course, we need these to taste! Adjust according to your preference.
Is Rich & Flavorful Chicken Mushroom Soup Good for You?
Yes, yes, a thousand times YES! This soup isn’t just a treat for the taste buds, it also packs a nutritious punch.
Chicken: It’s a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle health. Plus, it’s low in fat when you choose lean cuts.
Mushrooms: They are rich in antioxidants and are known for their nutrient density. Eating mushrooms may also boost your immune system.
Veggies: We all know that adding more veggies to our diet is a good thing. They provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber which is an all-around win for our health.
While this soup is certainly comforting and nourishing, bear in mind that it does contain sodium from the broth. If you are watching your salt intake, just be cautious with the amount you add.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb skinless chicken thighs (boneless is preferable)
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 4 oz shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Serving Size: About 6 bowls of delicious warmth!
How to Make Rich & Flavorful Chicken Mushroom Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to ensure it doesn’t burn.
3. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften and release their juices—about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the chicken thighs into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a rolling boil.
5. Reduce the heat and allow the soup to simmer for about 20-25 minutes. You want the chicken to be thoroughly cooked.
6. With a pair of forks, shred the chicken right in the pot or remove it to shred separately, if you prefer. Then, return it to the pot.
7. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning, if needed. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Soup-er Tips and Twists
– For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving!
– Want some greens? Toss in some fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
– This soup is perfect to freeze! Just cool it completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and it’ll last for about 3 months in the freezer.
This Rich & Flavorful Chicken Mushroom Soup is sure to become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. I can’t wait for you to try it! When you do, let me know how it turns out, or, better yet, share it with friends and family. There’s nothing like enjoying food made with love together. Happy cooking!
