(Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe

This Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe is a delightful blend of creamy textures and rich flavors, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and brings together tender chicken, multiple types of mushrooms, and three varieties of cheese to create a satisfying bowl. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup will warm your heart and keep you on track with your low-carb goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Comfort: This soup combines cream cheese and cheese for a rich, velvety texture that feels indulgent yet healthy.
• Flavor Explosion: With three different mushrooms and aromatic herbs like thyme and sage, each spoonful is packed with robust flavors.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe quick to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair with a fresh salad or low-carb bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from mushrooms, this soup fits seamlessly into any healthy eating plan.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into the cooking process, having the right tools will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for even cooking, allowing for the perfect sautéing of ingredients while maintaining heat.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth incorporation of cheeses into the broth without lumps, enhancing the creamy texture of your soup.

Ingredients

This Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup is a creamy, healthy, soul-warming bowl of comfort. With three kinds of cheese, three kinds of mushrooms, and the most tender, flavorful chicken!

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 1/2 pounds chicken breast cut into 1-inch pieces and seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
• 16 ounces Button mushrooms
• 8 ounces Baby portobello mushrooms
• 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms
• 1 large yellow onion chopped
• 6 garlic cloves minced

For Seasoning

• 1 package thyme leaves left on the stem, rinsed, dried, and tied into 2-3 bundles with kitchen twine
• 10 sage leaves rinsed, dried and finely chopped
• 5 tablespoons sweet Marsala apple vinegar

For the Broth

• 5 cups chicken stock
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For Garnish

• Sautéed mushrooms,
• Sour cream,
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese,
• Parsley

How to Make (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Add olive oil to a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat.
1. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 10 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Remove the chicken using a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

In the same pot:
1. Add all types of mushrooms.
2. Sauté for around 6 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Reserve 2 tablespoons of cooked mushrooms for garnish if desired.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Next:
1. Stir in chopped onions, minced garlic, thyme bundles, chopped sage, and sweet Marsala apple vinegar.
2. Sauté everything together for another 4 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth

Now:
1. Pour in the chicken stock.
2. Bring to a simmer before adding back in the cooked chicken pieces.
3. Let everything simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheeses

After simmering:
1. Remove thyme stems from the pot and discard them.
2. Whisk in cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until smooth.

Step 6: Prepare Garnish (Optional)

If desired:
1. Pan-fry reserved sautéed mushrooms in a little olive oil until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve Your Soup

Finally:
Garnish your soup with extra sautéed mushrooms, a dollop of sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy this hearty Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup that’s not just delicious but also nourishing!

How to Serve (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe

Serving (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup is all about enhancing the rich flavors while keeping it healthy. This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that can elevate your meal experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Sautéed Mushrooms: Top your soup with sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy kick.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for an extra cheesy indulgence.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley provides a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.

Complementary Dishes

• Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Low-Carb Bread: Serve with low-carb breadsticks or rolls for dipping in the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pairing with roasted vegetables adds a nutritious crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe

Achieving the perfect (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup requires attention to detail and a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to enhance your soup-making skills:

• Bold Cooking Techniques: Sear the chicken well before adding other ingredients for deeper flavor.
• Fresh Herbs Usage: Always use fresh herbs when possible; they contribute more vibrant flavors than dried ones.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Soften cream cheese before adding it to ensure it blends smoothly without lumps.
• Stock Quality Matters: Use high-quality chicken stock for a richer taste. Homemade stock is even better!

Best Side Dishes for (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe

To round out your meal featuring (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup, consider these delightful side dishes. They complement the flavors of the soup while adhering to low-carb principles.

1. Cauliflower Rice: A great substitute for traditional rice, cauliflower rice is low in carbs and absorbs flavors well.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add a fun, pasta-like texture without the carbs.
3. Broccoli Salad: This crunchy salad made with fresh broccoli, nuts, and a light dressing provides fiber and nutrients.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mixture of ground turkey and spices for a satisfying, healthy side.
5. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices tossed with lime juice and seasoning make for a refreshing addition.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a deliciously smoky flavor that pairs well with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Overcooking the mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms until they are just tender. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which detracts from the overall dish.
• Skipping the cream cheese: Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess. Omitting it can result in a less satisfying soup.
• Using low-quality chicken stock: A good quality stock makes a big difference in flavor. Choose a low-sodium option if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• Ignoring garnish options: Garnishes like sautéed mushrooms or parsley enhance visual appeal and add extra flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating (Low-Carb) Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe that might help you as you cook.

Can I use other types of meat in this Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef for different flavors while keeping it low-carb.

How can I make this Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, omit the cream cheese and use coconut cream instead for a creamy texture without dairy.

What kind of mushrooms work best in this recipe?

A mix of button, portobello, and shiitake mushrooms provides great flavor and texture, but feel free to experiment with other varieties too!

Can I add vegetables to this Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup recipe?

Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini will enhance nutrition without increasing carbs significantly.

How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?

You can whisk in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or add more cream cheese to achieve your desired thickness.

Final Thoughts

This Low-Carb Chicken Mushroom Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or using various types of mushrooms. Give this comforting dish a try; it may become your new favorite healthy meal!