Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my all-time favorite warm hug in a bowl: Chicken, Mushroom & Leek Soup! There’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming bowl of this soup after a long day. I always remember cozy nights in my grandmother’s kitchen when she would whip up this soulful dish. It’s thick, creamy, and filled to the brim with flavor and goodness. Just the aroma alone brings back such wonderful memories—I can almost hear her telling me about the secrets of letting the flavors meld, like a perfect symphony!
What I love about this soup is its unique blend of ingredients; it showcases earthy mushrooms, sweet leeks, and succulent chicken, all bathed in a velvety cream broth. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but fancy enough to impress your friends if you decide to host a little dinner party. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life!
What’s in Chicken, Mushroom & Leek Soup?
Olive Oil: A staple in almost all my cooking! It adds richness and depth. Plus, it’s healthier than butter.
Onion: Sweet diced onions bring a savory base that enhances the whole flavor profile. They’re like the supportive friend in a rom-com—always there for you.
Leeks: These mild, sweet alliums add a unique flavor. Just make sure to rinse them well to get rid of any grit!
Garlic: Because let’s be real, what’s a soup without garlic? It adds that aromatic punch we all crave!
Mushrooms: I recommend cremini or button mushrooms for that delectable umami essence. They add a wonderful earthiness to the mix.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver! It saves time and adds that tender, juicy texture to the soup.
Chicken Broth: Go for a quality broth, as it’s the backbone of your soup! Homemade is best, but I won’t judge if you go with your favorite store brand.
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious, velvety finish. If you’re looking for something lighter, half-and-half works just as nicely.
Carrots: They provide a natural sweetness and a pop of color. Plus, they bring some extra nutrition to the mix!
Celery: Adds crunch and depth—a “must have” in a good soup—so don’t skip it!
Dried Thyme: This herb brings a lovely floral and earthy flavor. It perfectly complements the chicken and mushrooms.
Salt and Pepper: Your trusty seasonings to enhance flavors. Always taste as you go for the best results!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only makes it look fancy but brings a refreshing brightness to the dish!
Is Chicken, Mushroom & Leek Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is a fantastic way to pack in nutrients without sacrificing flavor. The base of the soup boasts lots of vegetables like carrots and celery, which offer vitamins and minerals.
Mushrooms: These little beauties are low in calories but packed with vitamins B and D, making them heart-healthy and immune-boosting.
Chicken: A great source of lean protein, keeping you full longer and giving your body the fuel it needs.
Heavy Cream: While it does add richness, it also means a higher calorie count, so if you’re watching that or wanting a lighter version, half-and-half or even a splash of milk works brilliantly too.
All in all, Chicken, Mushroom & Leek Soup is a delicious and nourishing choice for any meal!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 leeks, sliced and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves 4-6 heartwarming bowls.*
How to Make Chicken, Mushroom & Leek Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and leeks, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
3. Next, stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the shredded chicken along with the chicken broth and dried thyme. Bring this delightful concoction to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes until the veggies are tender.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Allow the soup to heat through for a few minutes, then remove from the heat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Grab your bowl and enjoy the warm comforting vibes!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for My Cozy Soup!
Oh, let me drop a few tips that I’ve picked up over the years to take this soup to the next level!
– You can throw in some frozen peas for added color and nutrition. They cook quickly and blend well with the other veggies.
– Serve it with a crusty baguette or some warm, buttery rolls; the perfect pairing for dipping!
– Want a little zing? A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors immensely!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, top it with some crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor contrast. Now that would be a bowl of happiness!
I hope this recipe brings a bit of warmth to your kitchen and a smile to your face. Give this Chicken, Mushroom & Leek Soup a try, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out! Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds (and thirds). Happy cooking! 🍲
