### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:**

* Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
* Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add chicken to the pot and cook until golden, about 2-3 minutes; set aside.([damndelicious.net][3])

2. **Sauté Vegetables:**

* In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat.
* Add mushrooms, onion, carrots, and celery.
* Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes.([damndelicious.net][3])

3. **Add Aromatics:**

* Stir in garlic and thyme until fragrant, about 1 minute.([damndelicious.net][3])

4. **Make the Roux:**

* Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute.([damndelicious.net][3])

5. **Add Liquids:**

* Stir in chicken stock, bay leaf, and reserved chicken.
* Cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes.([damndelicious.net][3])

6. **Finish the Soup:**

* Stir in half and half until heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* If the soup is too thick, add more half and half until desired consistency is reached.([damndelicious.net][3])

7. **Serve:**

* Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.([damndelicious.net][3])

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## 🔄 Variations to Explore

### **1. Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup**

Incorporate cooked wild rice into the soup for added texture and a nutty flavor. This variation is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for a filling meal.

### **2. Low-Carb Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup**

For a ketogenic-friendly version, omit the flour and use a low-carb thickening agent like xanthan gum. Replace half and half with heavy cream and use a sugar-free chicken broth to maintain the soup’s richness without the carbs.

### **3. Dairy-Free Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup**

Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives: use coconut milk or almond milk in place of half and half, and opt for dairy-free butter and cream. Ensure the chicken stock is also dairy-free.

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## 🥄 Serving Suggestions

* **Crusty Bread:** Serve the soup with a side of toasted baguette or sourdough for dipping.
* **Salad:** Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
* **Wine Pairing:** A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy texture and earthy flavors of the soup.

—

## 🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips

* **Refrigeration:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Freezing:** Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the desired consistency.

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## 📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount | |
| ————- | ——– | ——————————————————————— |
| Calories | 348 kcal | |
| Protein | 28 g | |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g | |
| Fat | 20 g | |
| Fiber | 3 g | |
| Sodium | 800 mg | ([eatingwell.com][4], [onceuponachef.com][5], [thechunkychef.com][6]) |

*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient substitutions.*

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## 📝 Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Mushroom Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Its versatility allows for endless variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore creative twists, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

—

* [bhg.com](https://www.bhg.com/creamy-soup-recipes-7644365?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
* [eatingwell.com](https://www.eatingwell.com/my-favorite-creamy-wild-rice-soup-8729781?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

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[1]: https://www.skinnytaste.com/creamy-chicken-and-mushroom-soup/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup …”
[2]: https://www.aspicyperspective.com/low-carb-creamy-chicken-mushroom-soup/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Chicken Mushroom Soup (Video) – A Spicy Perspective”
[3]: https://damndelicious.net/2015/01/10/creamy-chicken-mushroom-soup/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup – Damn Delicious”
[4]: https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/281293/creamy-chicken-mushroom-soup/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup”
[5]: https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/cream-of-mushroom-soup.html/comment-page-3?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup – Rich & Creamy”
[6]: https://www.thechunkychef.com/creamy-chicken-mushroom-chowder/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Chowder – The Chunky Chef”