A rich, fragrant bowl of Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup warms you from the inside out, with tender chicken mingling with earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs. Each spoonful is a soothing embrace, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is a hug in a bowl.
Growing up, my grandmother made a similar soup every Sunday, filling our home with an aroma so comforting it could make even the grumpiest family member crack a smile. One time, I mistakenly added twice the amount of salt—let’s just say that was the last time I was allowed near her secret recipe!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup is not only easy to whip up on a busy weeknight but also boasts a unique flavor profile that balances savory chicken with the umami of mushrooms. With its stunning golden hue and inviting aroma, this soup serves as an eye-catching centerpiece for any table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices for an extra kick.
Ingredients for Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
- Chicken breast Use skinless boneless chicken breast for lean protein that stays tender during cooking. Cut into small cubes for quick cooking.
- Mushrooms Fresh cremini or button mushrooms add earthy flavors; choose firm ones without blemishes for the best taste.
- Onion A medium yellow onion will provide sweetness and depth of flavor; chop finely so it blends seamlessly into the soup.
- Garlic Minced garlic introduces a delightful aroma; use fresh cloves for maximum potency.
- Carrots Chopped carrots offer natural sweetness and color; pick bright orange ones that are firm to the touch.
- Celery Diced celery adds crunch and freshness; select vibrant green stalks for the best flavor.
- Chicken broth Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor; homemade is great if you have it!
- Dried thyme This herb adds an aromatic touch; opt for high-quality thyme to enhance the overall taste.
- Pepper Freshly cracked black pepper provides warmth; adjust it to your spice preference.
- Agar-agar powder This plant-based gelling agent will help thicken your soup slightly if desired; use sparingly according to package instructions.
- Fresh parsley Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; always go for vibrant green leaves.
Complete Preparation Method Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl
Simply follow these easy steps to prepare this delicious meal:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The smell should be divine—like music to your nostrils.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Stir in chopped carrots and diced celery into the pot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly. Your kitchen will start smelling like heaven—don’t be surprised if neighbors come knocking!
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add cubed chicken breast to the pot, stirring until it turns white on all sides—about 5 minutes. This step brings out that succulent flavor we’re all craving!
Step 4: Incorporate Mushrooms
Gently fold in your sliced mushrooms and let them cook down until they release their juices—around 4-5 minutes. The mixture will start bubbling away like it knows how good it’s going to taste.
Step 5: Pour in Broth and Season
Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with dried thyme, freshly cracked black pepper, and agar-agar powder (if using). Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Smell that? It’s culinary magic happening right there!
Step 6: Final Touches
Once done simmering, stir in fresh parsley before serving hot. Garnish with additional parsley if desired for that Insta-worthy presentation! Serve immediately to enjoy all those cozy flavors.
This Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl is perfect on its own or paired with some crusty bread for dipping! Enjoy every warming spoonful as you reminisce about cherished moments in your kitchen.
Mastering the Secrets of Cooking
To make your Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl shine, start by sautéing the mushrooms until golden brown. This enhances their flavor. Next, add the chicken to seal in moisture before introducing the broth for a rich, hearty taste.
Make Your Recipe Unique
Spice up your Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl by swapping out button mushrooms for shiitake or cremini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter twist that still delivers comfort.
Smart Storage & Reheating
To maintain the freshness of your Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve the texture of the chicken and mushrooms without overcooking them.
The Chef’s Golden Tips
- Always cook your chicken until it’s just done to keep it juicy and tender in your soup.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end cooking stage for a burst of vibrant flavor.
- Don’t skip on seasoning; a pinch of salt can elevate all the flavors in your Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup.
I still remember the first time I made this soup. My friend walked in, took one whiff, and declared it smelled like home—just what I was aiming for!
Conclusion for Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl
In conclusion, this Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup is not only a delightful blend of flavors but also a nourishing choice for your meal rotation. Packed with lean chicken and earthy mushrooms, it offers a comforting warmth that soothes the soul. The use of fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients ensures that each bowl is both healthy and satisfying. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and create this delicious soup today! Experience the joy of cooking and indulge in a comforting bowl that your whole family will love.
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Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup – Healthy & Comforting Bowl
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken and earthy mushrooms in a rich, fragrant broth. Ideal for chilly evenings, this healthy and comforting bowl is quick to make and can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or spices. Its stunning golden hue and inviting aroma make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dinner table, perfect for family meals or cozy nights in. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every spoonful, reminiscent of cherished family traditions.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breast, cut into small cubes
- 8 ounces fresh cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large pot over medium heat.
- Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in chopped carrots and diced celery and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add cubed chicken breast to the pot and stir until it turns white on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Gently fold in your sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add dried thyme and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes.
- If desired, stir in agar-agar powder according to package instructions to thicken the soup.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and stir in chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Storage: Allow the Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning the soup into single servings for easy reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Serving: Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with whole grain bread or a side salad. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a delightful finishing touch.
Chef’s Tip: For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the mushrooms separately before adding them to the soup. This technique enhances their umami flavor, making the soup even more comforting and delicious. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 0
FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup?
For the Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup, using boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh meat is ideal. Both cuts provide tender and juicy pieces that absorb the flavors of the broth beautifully. If you prefer a richer taste, chicken thighs are recommended as they offer more depth compared to chicken breasts.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup ahead of time. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through.
How can I thicken my Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup?
To thicken your Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup, consider adding a plant-based gelling agent like agar-agar or cornstarch mixed with water. Stir this mixture into the soup towards the end of cooking and allow it to simmer until thickened to your desired consistency. This method keeps your soup creamy without compromising its health benefits.
What vegetables can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance your Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. These additions not only boost flavor but also increase nutritional value. Simply chop them up and sauté them along with the mushrooms before adding in the broth for a delicious upgrade to your soup!
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