If you're looking for a comforting soup that's easy to prepare, consider trying chicken mushroom soup. With just 126 calories per cup (126.0 G), it's a healthy and satisfying meal option.

To make this soup, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Apart from the chicken and mushrooms, it usually contains onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and chicken stock, which are all packed with essential nutrients. You'll also need some herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.

This article will walk you through the various steps involved in preparing chicken mushroom soup, and delve into the health benefits and serving variations you can try. Let's get started!

Calories in Chicken Mushroom Soup

Chicken mushroom soup is an excellent low-calorie meal option, with just 126 calories per cup (126.0 G). This makes it a great choice for people watching their weight or looking to reduce their calorie intake. If you're interested in the nutritional content of this soup, it's worth noting that it's also a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These essential nutrients help support a healthy immune system, aid in bone growth and development, and much more.

Ingredients in Chicken Mushroom Soup

To make chicken mushroom soup, you'll need a handful of ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. Here are the ingredients you'll need:

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Health Benefits of Chicken Mushroom Soup

Chicken mushroom soup has several health benefits thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients. Here are a few of the primary health benefits you can enjoy from eating this soup:

• The chicken provides a good source of protein, which is vital for building and repairing tissues, organs, and muscles.
• The mushrooms contain antioxidants that help support a healthy immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Onions and garlic are known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties, which help fight infections and keep the body healthy.

Preparation of Chicken Mushroom Soup

Making chicken mushroom soup is a straightforward process that doesn't require much time or effort. Here's how you can prepare the soup:

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, celery, and carrot to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, mushroom, and thyme to the pot and stir well.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the ingredients and mix until everything is coated.
6. Add the chicken stock, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and bring the soup to a simmer.
7. Cook the soup for about 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Seasoning for Chicken Mushroom Soup

Seasoning is an essential part of making chicken mushroom soup as it adds flavor and aroma to the dish. Here are some of the best seasonings you can use in chicken mushroom soup:

• Dried Thyme
• Paprika
• Black Pepper
• Salt
• Bay Leaves
• Parsley
• Oregano

Chicken Mushroom Soup Variations

Chicken mushroom soup is a versatile dish that can easily be modified to suit your taste buds. Here are some of the most popular variations you can try:

• Thai Chicken Mushroom Soup: Add some coconut milk, chili paste, and lemongrass to the soup for a spicy and tangy twist.
• Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup: Add some heavy cream or sour cream to the soup to give it a rich and velvety texture.
• Vegetarian Chicken Mushroom Soup: Omit the chicken and substitute vegetable stock for the chicken stock to make a vegetarian version of the soup.

How to Serve Chicken Mushroom Soup

Chicken mushroom soup can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preference. Here are some of the best ways to serve this soup:

• Garnish the soup with some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and aroma.
• Serve it with some bread or crackers for a hearty and filling meal.
• Pour the soup over some rice or noodles for a more substantial dish.

Storage of Chicken Mushroom Soup

To store chicken mushroom soup, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for 2-3 months.

Tips for Making Chicken Mushroom Soup

Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you make the perfect chicken mushroom soup:

• Use boneless and skinless chicken breasts for best results.
• Cut the vegetables into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
• For a thicker soup, add more flour to the soup.
• Make sure to properly season the soup to avoid a bland flavor.
• Use low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the salt content in the soup.

Chicken Mushroom Soup Serving Size

A standard serving of chicken mushroom soup is one cup (126.0 G) and contains approximately 126 calories. You can adjust this serving size to fit your dietary needs and preferences.