Craving that rich, creamy, dreamy Cream of Chicken Soup you adore from the Cheesecake Factory? Forget the long drive and hefty bill! This homemade version captures all the comforting goodness without the fuss. It's a surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of this restaurant-quality soup, made right in your own kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes achievable with homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (or any mushroom you prefer)
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly.
Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a light roux. This helps thicken the soup.
Simmer the soup: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Creamy perfection: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded chicken. Heat through gently – do not boil.
Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy the comforting taste of your homemade Cheesecake Factory-inspired Cream of Chicken Soup. This is a great example of a healthy meal that’s easy to make.
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Adjust the thickness: If your soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Soup: Add 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained, for a delicious twist.
- Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Stir in 1 cup of cooked wild rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe provides a satisfying and delicious meal, perfect for those seeking best recipes for homemade cooking. Enjoy your culinary adventure!