Are you ready to discover the easiest way to create a mouth-watering creamy chicken soup that will become your new family favorite?
This Creamy Chicken Slow Cooker Mushroom Soup recipe is designed to deliver comfort and savory flavors with minimal effort. It’s perfect for any dinner, offering a hearty, nutritious meal. With just seven ingredients and a slow cooker, it’s both convenient and delicious.
The ingredients you’ll need are boneless skinless chicken breasts, a can of cream of mushroom soup, chicken stock, onion soup mix, mushrooms, thyme, and black pepper. Cooking in the slow cooker takes about 4 hours on high or 7 to 8 hours on low. Whether you’re opting for chicken with cream of mushroom soup or looking for simple slow cooker recipes, this dish fits the bill.
What makes this recipe even better? You don’t need to brown the chicken beforehand, and the prepared soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. This makes it a versatile addition to your meal plan.
Intriguingly, you can also experiment with different variations like using chicken thighs, canned mushrooms, or even adding sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness. The flexibility to make substitutions and the simplicity of the preparation elevate this dish above the average slow cooker recipes.
So, why not give this creamy chicken soup a try tonight and amaze your loved ones with your culinary skills?
Introduction to Creamy Chicken Slow Cooker Mushroom Soup
Discover the ultimate comfort food with our creamy chicken slow cooker soup. It’s perfect for easy meals or family dinners. This soup is simple to make and turns basic ingredients into a delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken slow cooker soup is loved for its simplicity and taste. It only needs chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and maybe some sour cream or onion soup mix. The slow cooking makes the flavors blend beautifully, great for busy days or weekends.
It cooks in 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high in a crockpot. You can add mushrooms or spices like thyme and cayenne pepper. You can also make it healthier by using low-fat options.
Perfect for Any Dinner
This soup is easy to make and perfect for any dinner. It has over 2500 5-star reviews and a 4.70 rating. It only takes 5 minutes to prep and 8 hours to cook, making it ideal for a family dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours and 5 minutes
- Recipe Rating: 4.70 out of 5 based on 2756 votes
- Serving Suggestions: Over angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice
It’s great with rice or vegetables like green beans. Bread is also a great choice for dipping. It’s not only tasty but also high in protein, making it a healthy option for family meals.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Slow Cooker Mushroom Soup
Making creamy chicken slow cooker mushroom soup is easy with simple ingredients. You can create a dish that’s both tasty and healthy. Let’s look at what you need for this recipe.
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small package (about 10 oz) of fresh mushrooms, diced
- ½ small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of dry Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Mix
- ½ cup of chicken stock
- ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon of Mexican chipotle chilli powder
- 2 tablespoons of butter
The main ingredients give your soup a great taste. Chicken, mushroom soup, and fresh mushrooms make it creamy. Onions and spices add more flavor, making it a satisfying meal.
Optional Add-ons
Want to make your mushroom chicken soup even better? Try these add-ons:
- Chive and onion cream cheese – It makes the soup creamier and tastier.
- Additional vegetables – Like carrots, celery, or spinach for more nutrition and taste.
These add-ons let you make the soup your own. You can adjust it to match your preferences or dietary requirements. It’s a fun way to make a different dish each time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a creamy chicken slow cooker mushroom soup is simple. Just follow these steps to get a delicious dish for dinner.
Preparation
First, get all your ingredients ready. You’ll need 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, some spices, and a few other things. You can also use boneless chicken thighs if you like. Clean and slice your mushrooms, like baby bellas or white buttons.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and poultry seasoning. You can also make a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup later.
Cooking in the Slow Cooker
Put the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the mushrooms and pour in some cream of chicken or mushroom soup. You can also add a splash of wine for extra flavor.
Cover the cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours. Make sure the chicken is 165°F inside. This slow cooking blends the flavors well.
Final Touches
After cooking, check the chicken’s temperature with a meat thermometer. If the soup is too thin, add the cornstarch slurry. For a creamier soup, add some heavy cream.
Top with chopped herbs like parsley or thyme. Sprinkle Parmesan or Muenster cheese for a nice finish. You can also add extra veggies like onions or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.
These steps will help you make a soup with great flavors and textures. Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a salad for a cosy meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Slow Cooker Mushroom Soup
To make the best slow-cooker chicken mushroom soup, follow a few expert tips. Focus on quality ingredients, careful preparation, and the right slow cooker settings. This will make the process smooth and improve the soup’s taste and texture. Here are some tips for making a creamy soup:
Start by picking the right chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add richness and depth, with 235 calories per serving. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a lighter option with 185 calories per serving.
Keep sodium levels low by using unsalted butter and low-sodium cream of chicken soup. You’ll need 2.5 pounds of chicken thighs and 2 cans of cream of chicken soup. For creaminess, blend 1 cup of sour cream with 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup.
Use the right slow cooker settings for the best results. Cooking on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours keeps the chicken tender and flavors rich. Adjust times based on your slow cooker model.
Add herbs and spices for extra flavor. Sprinkle half a packet of ranch seasoning over the mix. Add diced tomatoes, frozen peas, or mixed vegetables for nutrition and variety. For more protein, use light sour cream or Greek yogurt.
For a crunchy topping, mix 2 packets of crushed Ritz crackers with 3 tablespoons of butter. This brings a delightful balance to the creamy soup.
For smaller portions, halve the recipe for a 3 to 4-quart slow cooker, serving 4 to 5 people. Shred or dice the chicken before serving. Top with cheddar cheese or serve with crackers.
Consider ingredient alternatives for dietary preferences. Use boneless skinless chicken thighs or pork chops, homemade cream of chicken soup, Greek yogurt, and breadcrumbs. Baking at 350°F for an hour is also an option.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories per Serving | WW Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs | 2.5 lbs | 235 | 4 |
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts | 4 pieces | 185 | 1 |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) | — | — |
| Sour Cream | 1 cup | — | — |
| Ranch Seasoning | 1/2 packet | — | — |
| Ritz Crackers | 2 packets | — | — |
Substitutions and Variations
Customizing your creamy chicken slow cooker mushroom soup can add excitement and cater to dietary needs. Here are some practical substitutions and variations that can make your soup appealing and nutritious for everyone.
Using Different Cuts of Chicken
Try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for richer flavor and moisture. Thigh meat has a deeper taste and stays tender. This change can also improve your dish’s texture.
Making It Dairy-Free
For those on dairy-free diets, coconut milk is a great cream substitute. It gives a creamy texture without dairy. This makes your soup perfect for those with lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions.
Adding Extra Vegetables
Boost the nutritional value by adding various vegetables. Carrots, peas, spinach, or bell peppers add colour and vitamins. Experiment with different vegetables to find your favorite mix.
| Ingredient | Original | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Cuts | Boneless Chicken Breasts | Boneless Chicken Thighs |
| Milk/Cream | Heavy Cream | Coconut Milk |
| Extra Vegetables |
|
|
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Slow Cooker Mushroom Soup
Presenting chicken mushroom soup can make a big difference. It turns a simple meal into a special slow cooker dish. Here are some ideas to make your creamy chicken mushroom soup stand out.
For a cosy feel, serve it with thick slices of crusty bread or a fresh baguette. This adds a nice texture and complements the soup’s flavors.
For a more elegant look, garnish with fresh parsley or chives. A dollop of sour cream or truffle oil can also enhance the taste and look, great for formal events.
For a family dinner, serve it in large bowls with mashed potatoes or steamed rice. A crisp green salad with light vinaigrette is a perfect side dish.
To add elegance, serve in porcelain bowls with garlic knots or herbed focaccia. This not only makes the meal more comforting but also shows your attention to detail.
Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special event, you can adjust the presentation to impress your guests. We’ve shared some versatile ideas to make your creamy chicken mushroom soup a hit.
| Serving Suggestions | Description |
|---|---|
| Crusty Bread or Baguette | Thick slices that complement the soup’s flavors. |
| Garnishes | Fresh parsley, chives, sour cream, or truffle oil add sophistication. |
| Side Dishes | Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a crisp salad. |
| Elegant Touch | Serve in porcelain bowls with garlic knots or herbed focaccia. |
Storing and Freezing Instructions
Proper storage and freezing techniques ensure your chicken slow cooker mushroom soup stays delicious for days. Learn the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat. This way, you can enjoy the soup’s tasty flavor and warmth for longer.
Storing in the Refrigerator
For storing slow cooker meals like this creamy chicken mushroom soup, use an airtight container. Store leftover soup in the fridge for 4-6 days. A tightly sealed container keeps it fresh and prevents contamination.
Freezing for Longer Preservation
For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-friendly container. Cool the soup completely before freezing to avoid freezer burn. Frozen soup can last up to 6 months, keeping its flavor and nutrients.
Reheating Tips
Reheating your stored soup is easy. If it is refrigerated, heat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring often. For frozen soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can also microwave it, reheat it in short intervals, and stir it between each.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your slow cooker chicken mushroom soup at its best, even days or weeks later.
Health Benefits
Discovering the nutritional benefits of chicken soup, especially when prepared using healthy slow cooker recipes, can be a game-changer for your diet. This Creamy Chicken Slow Cooker Mushroom Soup is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s not only a comforting meal but also a health-boosting option.
The lean protein from chicken is essential for muscle growth and repair. It provides you with sustained energy throughout the day. Chicken also helps you feel full longer, which can help manage your appetite.
Mushrooms, another key ingredient, are low in sodium and fat-free. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Mushrooms contain essential nutrients like copper, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins. These nutrients improve immune function and overall well-being.
Turmeric is filled with antioxidants that help eliminate free radicals. It prevents diseases and slows ageing. Turmeric also has natural anti-inflammatory benefits, which are useful for those with arthritis or autoimmune issues. It may also protect against Alzheimer’s by reducing inflammation. For optimal absorption, combine turmeric with freshly ground black pepper.
The soup also includes organic vegetables like spinach, garlic, and celery. These vegetables offer a plethora of nutrients. Baby spinach is rich in iron, providing a significant nutrient boost to your meal. Various spices like bay leaves, garlic, and fresh dill enhance the flavor and add to the nutritional benefits of chicken soup.
Extra-virgin olive oil, known for its healthy fats, and bone broth adds depth and richness to the soup. Bone broth is prepared from simmered chicken bones with herbs and vegetables. Coconut aminos offer an umami flavor, serving as a nutritious, gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Whether you are preparing this dish for a quick weeknight meal or a leisurely weekend dinner, this recipe caters to health-conscious individuals. It offers a bowl of comfort without compromising on nutrition. The nutritional benefits of chicken soup, paired with the ease of healthy slow cooker recipes, make this a staple in any health-conscious kitchen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your perfect chicken mushroom soup in a slow cooker, watch out for common mistakes. One big one is overcooking the chicken. To avoid this, stick to the recommended cooking times and check the chicken’s internal temperature. If the chicken gets too dry, it can ruin your soup’s taste and texture.
Another mistake is adding too much salt too soon. Slow-cooked dishes can become too salty if you’re not careful. Instead, season your soup little by little and taste it as you go. Adding herbs like parsley or oregano towards the end can boost the flavor without making it too salty.
Don’t forget to grease the pot to prevent ingredients from sticking and burning. This makes cooking smoother. Also, add dairy products like cream or milk towards the end to keep your soup creamy.
Lastly, keep your slow cooker in good shape. Use a liner to stop soggy textures from condensation, clean it well after each use, and don’t overcrowd it. By avoiding these mistakes, you can make a delicious and satisfying chicken mushroom soup every time.