Description
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup is a rich and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh vegetables simmered in a silky cream-based broth, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Thickening & Broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
Protein & Seasonings
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat fats: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and heat the olive oil until shimmering to create a flavorful base for sautéing.
- Sauté onions and mushrooms: Add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms release their moisture and brown slightly, enhancing their flavor.
- Cook vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Continue cooking for 4–5 minutes until these vegetables soften, adding texture and sweetness to the soup.
- Add garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic flavor is released without burning.
- Make roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetable mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook the flour and avoid a raw taste, helping to thicken the soup later.
- Whisk in broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and creates a smooth base for the soup.
- Add chicken and seasonings: Stir in the cooked chicken, dried thyme, optional dried rosemary, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. These ingredients build the soup’s savory flavor profile.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate cream: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half gently, then simmer for 5 more minutes without boiling to prevent curdling and create a silky texture.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth texture.
- Use cremini or baby bella mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor.
- The soup will thicken as it cools; add a little extra broth when reheating to reach desired consistency.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
