Homemade Chicken Mushroom Soup

Homemade chicken mushroom soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken and earthy mushrooms in a rich broth. This classic soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm and satisfying meal. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of making homemade chicken mushroom soup, including the selection of ingredients, preparation steps, cooking techniques, and serving suggestions.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 8 ounces brown mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning or ¼ teaspoon ground sage
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 chicken breasts
• ½ cup uncooked white rice

Simply follow these easy steps:

 Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms in butter.
 Add garlic and seasonings and cook just until fragrant.
 Add broth, chicken breasts, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it, and add it back to the soup.
 Serve and enjoy!

Notes:

• This recipe uses raw boneless-skinless chicken breasts. Frozen chicken breasts will need about 5-10 minutes extra cooking time.
• If using leftover or rotisserie chicken, the chicken should be added at the end so it doesn’t overcook.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and parsley if desired.
• Chicken Mushroom Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Cooking Techniques for Homemade Chicken Mushroom Soup

Stovetop Method

The stovetop method is the traditional way to cook homemade chicken mushroom soup. Follow these steps:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil or butter to the pot.
2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and celery to the pot. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and stir them together with the chicken and aromatics.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that it covers the ingredients.
6. Add the herbs and spices, such as thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Skim off any impurities or foam that may rise to the surface during simmering.
9. Remove the bay leaves and any bones or chicken pieces from the soup.
10. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
11. Serve the homemade chicken mushroom soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Slow Cooker Method

Using a slow cooker is a convenient way to make homemade chicken mushroom soup. Follow these steps:

1. Place the chicken pieces, mushrooms, chopped onions, garlic, and celery in the slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken broth, herbs, spices, and any additional seasonings you desire.
3. Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Once cooked, remove any bones or chicken pieces from the soup.
5. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serving Homemade Chicken Mushroom Soup

When serving homemade chicken mushroom soup, consider the following suggestions:

• Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has an equal amount of chicken, mushrooms, and broth.
• Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried herbs for added freshness and aroma.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping.

Pairing Options

To complete your meal, pair homemade chicken mushroom soup with:

• Salad: A light side salad, such as a mixed green salad or a cucumber and tomato salad, adds freshness and contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread, which can be dipped into the broth or used for scooping up tender chicken and mushrooms.
• Rice or Noodles: For a heartier meal, serve the soup over cooked rice or alongside egg noodles. These additions add substance and make the dish more filling.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken mushroom soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings warmth and comfort to any mealtime. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a delicious soup bursting with the flavors of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. Whether you opt for the stovetop or slow cooker method, homemade chicken mushroom soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

 

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of mushrooms for this soup? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms to vary the flavors and textures in your homemade chicken mushroom soup. Cremini, button, shiitake, or wild mushrooms are all excellent choices.
2. Can I use boneless chicken for the soup? Yes, boneless chicken can be used in the soup. However, keep in mind that bone-in chicken pieces or a whole chicken carcass will contribute to a richer and more flavorful broth.
3. Can I freeze the homemade chicken mushroom soup? Yes, homemade chicken mushroom soup can be frozen for future use. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Can I add vegetables to the soup? Certainly! You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn to the soup to make it more substantial and nutritious. Simply chop the vegetables into small pieces and add them to the soup during the cooking process.
5. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version? Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to create a vegetarian version of the soup. The flavors may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.