Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a heartwarming and velvety dish perfect for chilly days. Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this comforting Chicken and Mushroom Soup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring warmth to your table and a smile to your face.
Introduction
This Velvety Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Comfort Soup is the ultimate cozy meal. Originating from a blend of classic French techniques and American comfort food traditions, this soup features tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a luscious creamy broth. It’s the perfect dish for when you need something comforting yet sophisticated.
I still remember the first time I made this soup for a family gathering. It was an instant hit, with everyone going back for seconds (and even thirds!). Now, it’s a staple in my household during the colder months. The combination of flavors is pure magic: earthy mushrooms, succulent chicken, and a broth so creamy, you’ll want to savor every spoonful.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Velvety Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup, you’ll need:
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup half and half, or more, as needed
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Feel free to substitute the half and half with coconut milk for a dairy-free option, though it will slightly alter the flavor, giving it a subtle coconut undertone. For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How to Make Velvety Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Comfort Soup
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Chicken and Mushroom Soup:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful from the very beginning.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside. This step sears the chicken, locking in the juices.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aromatics will start to release their full flavors here.
- Thicken the Soup: Whisk in the flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute. This step creates a roux, which thickens the broth.
- Add the Stock and Chicken: Gradually stir in chicken stock, bay leaf, and the cooked chicken, cooking and stirring constantly until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in half and half and heat through, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more half and half until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
Helpful Tips
For the best results when making Velvety Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup, here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Preheat the Pot: Before adding your chicken to the pot, make sure the oil is properly heated. This will help the chicken sear nicely, giving it a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Don’t Rush the Vegetables: Take your time when sautéing the vegetables to ensure they become tender and caramelized. This step adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
Cooking Tips
When making this Chicken and Mushroom Soup, a few extra tips can help elevate the dish:
- Boost the Flavor: For even more depth, you can add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pot after sautéing the vegetables. Let it reduce slightly before adding the stock.
- Use a Dutch Oven: If possible, use a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot. This ensures even heat distribution, which helps with the overall cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken and mushroom soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Crusty Bread: Serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth.
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
- White Wine: A crisp glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors in this dish.
When it comes to presentation, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, and you can even add a swirl of extra cream for an elegant touch.
Nutritional Information
This comforting dish is not just delicious, it also packs some nutritional value:
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the chicken thighs, this soup is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of vegetables, including carrots, celery, and mushrooms, adds important vitamins like A and C, as well as minerals like potassium.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 760mg
- Potassium: 580mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 5600 IU
- Vitamin C: 8mg
- Calcium: 120mg
- Iron: 2mg
This soup is not only a comfort food, but it also provides a good balance of macronutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much during storage, add a splash of half and half or chicken stock to loosen it up.
- Creative Leftovers: Leftover soup can also be transformed into a casserole by adding cooked pasta or rice, sprinkling cheese on top, and baking it in the oven until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, add more half and half to restore its creamy texture.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace the half and half with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Note that this may slightly alter the taste and creaminess.
Related Recipes
Looking for more comforting soup ideas? Check out these delicious recipes:
These dishes are perfect for a cozy night in or when you want something hearty and satisfying.
Conclusion
I hope you give this Velvety Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup a try! It’s a wonderful way to warm up during colder months, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below. I’d love to hear your variations and experiences with this delicious soup. Happy cooking!
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Velvety Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Comfort Soup
Description
Welcome, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a heartwarming and velvety dish perfect for chilly days. Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this comforting Chicken and Mushroom Soup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring warmth to your table and a smile to your face.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup half and half, or more, as needed
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful from the very beginning.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside. This step sears the chicken, locking in the juices.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aromatics will start to release their full flavors here.
- Thicken the Soup: Whisk in the flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute. This step creates a roux, which thickens the broth.
- Add the Stock and Chicken: Gradually stir in chicken stock, bay leaf, and the cooked chicken, cooking and stirring constantly until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in half and half and heat through, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more half and half until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Preheat the Pot: Before adding your chicken to the pot, make sure the oil is properly heated. This will help the chicken sear nicely, giving it a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Don’t Rush the Vegetables: Take your time when sautéing the vegetables to ensure they become tender and caramelized. This step adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
Keywords: Creamy chicken mushroom soup, chicken and mushroom comfort soup, rich chicken mushroom soup, cozy chicken soup recipe, chicken and mushroom stew
