Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

A Cozy Bowl of Creamy Comfort

On chilly evenings, a pot of creamy soup feels like a warm hug you can taste. This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup is built for busy nights—grab leftovers, the freshest mushrooms, and a splash of cream, and you’re halfway to a bowl that tastes like weekend dining. It’s simple, soothing, and every spoonful smells like home.

The beauty is in the contrast: earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and a silk-smooth finish that clings to pasta, crusty bread, or a bright green salad. One pot, a handful of pantry staples, and a flavor-forward finish that makes you dive back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter — for that rich, toasty base; swap with olive oil if you prefer
• 1 tablespoon olive oil — helps prevent burning and adds a touch of fruitiness
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button) — the umami backbone; wipe mushrooms clean with a damp towel for the best texture
• 1 small onion, finely diced — builds the flavor foundation
• 2 garlic cloves, minced — ready-to-release aroma without overpowering the base
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great) — keeps the dish quick and hearty
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended) — adds body without overwhelming salt
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%) — lightens the sauce; use dairy-free milk if needed
• 1 cup heavy cream — for luxurious creaminess; adjust to taste for a lighter version
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch for gluten-free) — thickens the soup to a silky coat
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme) — classic herb that pairs with mushrooms
• Salt and pepper to taste — season gradually for balance
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard — a little zing that brightens the finish
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish — a fresh finish and color pop

Instructions

1. In a large heavy pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes, stirring often for even sweetness.
2. Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, 5–6 minutes. The sizzling sound and the mushroom aroma tell you they’re ready.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Sprinkle in the flour (or cornstarch) and whisk for about 1 minute to form a light roux. This base will help the soup thicken as it simmers.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the shredded chicken and thyme. Let the soup simmer softly for 6–8 minutes, until the flavors meld and the chicken is heated through. The surface should look glossy and the edges may cling a bit to the spoon.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and, if using, the Dijon mustard. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, just until the soup thickens to a creamy coat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
8. Remove from heat and serve hot. A final dusting of parsley adds color and a tiny burst of freshness.

Tips & Variations

• Gluten-free option: use 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with a little cold broth to slurry, then whisk in with the liquids. Avoid the plain flour roux.
• Make it lighter: use 1 cup milk and 1/2 cup cream, or substitute with half-and-half. For dairy-free, swap dairy with unsweetened almond milk and a dairy-free cream substitute.
• Protein swaps: turkey, cooked shrimp, or sautéed bacon bits can change the vibe—add them at the end to avoid overcooking.
• Heat level: a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce can wake up the dish if you like a little heat.
• Make-ahead: the soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and whisk in a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
• Texture tweaks: for a chunkier soup, reserve a portion of chicken and mushrooms to stir in after reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy soup with crusty garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or buttered herb toast for a complete meal. A simple side of roasted asparagus or a quick kale salad adds color and freshness to balance the richness.

Presentation tips: ladle into warm bowls, swirl a little cream on top, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a restaurant-style finish.

FAQs

How can I thicken the soup without lumps?

Whisk the flour with a small amount of cold broth before adding it to the pot to prevent lumps. Alternatively, make a cornstarch slurry (1–2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water), whisk it in and simmer until thickened.

Can I make this ahead or freeze it?

Yes to making ahead: cool, refrigerate for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove. Freezing is not ideal due to dairy, as it can separate; if you must freeze, store without the dairy and add it after reheating.

How do I reheat without the sauce breaking?

Reheat slowly over low to medium heat, stirring often. If the sauce looks a bit separated, whisk in a splash of broth or milk to bring it back together and simmer briefly to re-emulsify.

What pasta or grain would work well with this soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo are great for added texture. Add to the pot during the last 6–8 minutes of cooking so they stay al dente. Or serve with a side of crusty bread or cooked rice for variety.

Can I swap the chicken for another protein?

Yes. Leftover turkey works nicely, or you can add cooked shrimp at the end for a lighter seafood version. For a vegetarian take, use mushrooms as the primary filling and swap in vegetable broth with a plant-based cream substitute.

How can I keep the sauce silky if I’m worried about curdling?

Keep the heat gentle when adding dairy, and temper dairy by adding a small amount of hot liquid first. If you do see curdling, whisk vigorously and add a splash of broth or milk to smooth the sauce again.

Final Thoughts

Comfort in a bowl, built from pantry staples and a few little tweaks. This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup comes together fast, but it tastes like it simmered all day. Perfect for weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you just need a little warmth and nourishment. Save a little extra thyme for the top, and savor every spoonful.