Are you craving a comforting, homemade creamy mushroom soup chicken meal that is both quick and easy to prepare? This recipe for creamy chicken and mushroom soup offers a luscious blend of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, onions, and savory cream of mushroom soup. The best part? It requires only 25 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for busy households or novice cooks, this dish leverages fresh ingredients and pantry staples to create a rich and buttery mushroom sauce. Using essential kitchen tools like a reliable skillet and an instant-read thermometer ensures safe and delicious chicken every time. With an inviting sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, this creamy chicken and mushroom soup delivers comfort and flavor that will exceed your expectations.
This delicious mushroom soup with chicken brings together simple, yet elegant flavors that are bound to become a family favorite.
Key Takeaways
- This creamy mushroom soup chicken recipe takes only about 25 minutes to prepare.
- It combines tender chicken, garlic, onions, and condensed cream of mushroom soup for a rich and savory flavor.
- Essential kitchen tools include a reliable skillet and an instant-read thermometer.
- This recipe yields 4 servings, each containing approximately 425 calories, 14g of total fat, and 48g of protein.
- Perfect for busy households or novice cooks looking for a quick, delicious meal.
Introduction to Creamy Mushroom Soup Chicken
The creamy mushroom soup chicken achieves a perfect balance of ease and indulgence. Requiring just a few staple ingredients and simple cooking techniques, it’s a fuss-free answer to what’s for dinner on a bustling evening. With its combination of textural contrast and harmonious flavors, this easy mushroom soup recipe provides a gateway into the realm of comfort food that’s both satisfying and relatively light on prep time.
This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it to personal tastes and dietary preferences. For instance, you can follow Rachel Cooks’ version which highlights its delicious, easy, and budget-friendly nature. It includes pairing it with rice and garnishing with fresh parsley.
In essence, the creamy mushroom soup chicken is an easy mushroom soup recipe that delivers a delicious, comforting experience without compromising on time or effort. You’ll appreciate the combination of creamy soup with chicken and mushrooms, which ensures a rich, satisfying dish perfect for any dinner table.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom Soup Chicken
Unveiling the heart of your creamy mushroom soup chicken recipe starts with a precise selection of ingredients. Each component plays a pivotal role in creating a comforting bowl of creamy soup with chicken that is both rich and satisfying. Below, we’ve outlined the essentials and optional additions to customize your dish perfectly.
Essential Ingredients
- 3 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1 1/2 pounds)
- 6 ounces of cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 cups of chicken broth
- 2 1/2 cups of whole milk
- 1/4 cup dry orzo pasta
- Garlic, minced (optional for robust flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Thyme, for an aromatic touch
Optional Additions
While the essential ingredients lay the foundation for your creamy mushroom soup chicken, the optional additions allow for a personalized touch. Whether you want to enhance the creaminess or add a dash of color and freshness, consider these options:
- Low-sodium broth instead of regular to control salt intake
- Variations of fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary
- A splash of white wine for depth and flavor complexity
- A hint of paprika for a subtle kick
Let’s take a quick look at the nutritional content to help you better understand the health benefits of this creamy soup with chicken:
| Nutrition (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 262 |
| Fat | 12.3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 31 grams |
| Protein | 21.3 grams |
| Sodium | 607.7 milligrams |
| Sugar | 8.8 grams |
Step-by-Step Preparation
For an easy mushroom soup recipe that promises delicious results, follow these steps carefully. This homemade creamy mushroom soup will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Preparing the Chicken
- Begin by slicing 1 1/2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts lengthwise to form thinner cutlets. This will ensure even cooking and better seasoning absorption.
- Generously season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. For added flavor, you can use Italian seasoning as well.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Pan-fry the chicken cutlets until they achieve a golden brown crust. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, set the chicken aside on a plate. This step locks in the juices, ensuring the chicken remains tender and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Cooking the Dish
- In the same pan, add 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion and 6 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and aromatic.
- Incorporate any type of mushrooms you prefer, around 2 cups pre-sliced. Allow them to cook until they release their moisture and turn a beautiful golden color.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of sherry to intensify the flavors. If you prefer to keep it alcohol-free, you can use extra broth instead.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and add 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup, and 3/4 cup of 2% milk. Stir to combine and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- For added richness, incorporate a variety of cheeses like white cheddar, gruyere, or mozzarella. Consider also adding vegetables such as sautéed red bell peppers for color and spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
- Adjust the seasoning with thyme, salt, and black pepper to suit your taste. Garnish with green onions, fresh herbs, or crispy fried onions for an elegant finish.
This preparation requires attention to details and timing. Avoid overcooking to preserve the chicken’s juiciness. Now, enjoy a flavorful meal with this easy mushroom soup recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Mushroom Soup Recipe
Imagine a bowl of creamy soup with chicken that not only warms your soul but also caters to various dietary preferences. This creamy mushroom soup for dinner is indeed a crowd-pleaser. With servings of 6 to 8 and yielding about 8 cups, this dish is as generous as it is delicious.
The preparation is a breeze, needing only 20 minutes of your time, while cooking takes about 40 to 45 minutes. Thus, in under an hour, you can whip up a soulful dish that’s not just easy on your schedule but also nourishing.
This recipe earns its place in your heart and on your dinner table for several reasons:
- Comforting Flavors: The rich, creamy base combined with tender chicken elevates the flavor profile, offering a comforting experience.
- Health Benefits: Each serving of the creamy mushroom soup provides 215 calories, 16g of protein, and essential vitamins like A and C. Additionally, it is free from eggs, peanuts, and other allergens, making it safe for various dietary needs.
- Quick & Easy: From preparation to finish, this dish can be ready in just 33 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
- Versatility: Its flexibility to adapt to lower-carb or low-sodium versions ensures it meets various health goals without compromising taste or texture. You can easily convert the soup using pointers from the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe.
For those keeping track of nutritional values, here’s a snapshot per serving:
| Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Potassium | Fiber | Sugar | Vitamin A | Vitamin C | Calcium | Iron |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 215 | 9g | 16g | 12g | 6g | 70mg | 952mg | 722mg | 1g | 3g | 610 IU | 24mg | 53mg | 1.5mg |
Not only is this creamy soup with chicken nutritious, but its adaptability allows for countless variations. Whether you prefer a gluten-free thickening agent like tapioca flour or a different type of milk, you can tailor it to fit your dietary needs and still savor a delightful meal.
This easy mushroom soup makes for a perfect dinner, gathering high praise for its complete nutritional profile and tantalizing taste. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a declaration that a home-cooked, nutritious, and effortlessly prepared meal is within everyone’s reach.
Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Creating the ultimate creamy mushroom soup chicken requires attention to both ingredient selection and cooking methods. Here are some invaluable tips to ensure your dish truly stands out.
Choosing Ingredients
High-quality ingredients are the foundation of any delicious mushroom soup with chicken. Opt for fresh, boneless skinless chicken, which offers consistent texture and flavor. When it comes to mushrooms, fresh baby bella mushrooms are preferred over canned varieties for their earthy, robust taste.
Using a low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish, ensuring it complements rather than overwhelms the flavors. Incorporate fresh herbs like dried thyme and garlic to add depth without the need for additional seasoning. Remember, fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also the nutritional profile of your creamy mushroom soup chicken.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering a few key techniques can make all the difference in your creamy mushroom chicken. Start by searing the chicken pieces on high heat to lock in moisture, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. This process also adds a delightful golden crust that enhances the overall texture.
When cooking the soup, carefully stir the heavy cream into the mixture to avoid any lumps, creating a smoothly blended consistency. Maintaining precise temperature control is crucial — simmer the soup gently to reach the right thickness without burning the bottom.
Paying attention to these elements not only elevates the savory notes of the dish but also ensures a consistently satisfying creamy mushroom soup chicken. Whether paired with brown rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad, this dish promises a delightful culinary experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the creamy mushroom soup chicken fulfills its promise of being a quick and easy creamy chicken recipe that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. This dish, with its simple preparation and delicious flavors, is perfect for busy evenings or those moments when you crave comforting home-cooked food. By selecting quality ingredients like boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and a rich cream of mushroom soup, whether store-bought or homemade, you can ensure a delightful outcome every time.
Following the recommended cooking techniques, such as setting your crockpot to low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours, allows you to achieve tender and flavorful results with minimal effort. The flexibility of this recipe permits you to customize it to your liking, whether by adding vegetables like mushrooms or onions, introducing spices such as thyme or cayenne pepper, or even swapping the chicken for turkey or pork. This adaptability ensures that the dish can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Not only is this creamy mushroom soup chicken recipe appetizing, but it also offers nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and adjustments can be made to accommodate lower calorie or gluten-free diets. The leftovers, easily stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave, making it a convenient option for meal prepping. With a touch of culinary flair and strategic pantry staples, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family with this delicious, quick & easy creamy chicken recipe at any gathering or weekday dinner.
FAQ
What is the quickest way to cook creamy mushroom soup chicken?
The quickest way to cook creamy mushroom soup chicken is by using a skillet method. The entire process takes about 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and easy dinner.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh mushrooms for canned. Using fresh mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What type of chicken is best for this creamy mushroom soup recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They cook evenly and absorb the rich, creamy sauce well.
How can I make this dish lower in sodium?
To reduce the sodium content, you can use low-sodium broth and a low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. Adjust the amount of salt in the seasoning to your preference.
What kitchen tools are recommended for this recipe?
A reliable skillet, preferably cast iron for even heat distribution, and an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe 165°F are recommended. These tools help in cooking the chicken evenly and ensuring food safety.
Can I add other vegetables to this creamy mushroom soup chicken?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value and add more flavor to the dish.
How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?
Ensure you do not overcook the chicken. Searing it to a golden crust and then simmering gently in the creamy sauce helps retain its juiciness. Using an instant-read thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F is also helpful.
Is this recipe suitable for those on a low-carb diet?
Yes, this creamy mushroom soup chicken recipe is relatively low in carbs, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.
What are some variations to this recipe?
You can vary the herbs used, add a splash of white wine for depth, or include a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Feel free to customize according to your taste preferences.