As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap you in comfort. My Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup is the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only nourishes but also delights your loved ones. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of chicken and mushrooms simmering away, ready to be enjoyed. It’s cozy, it’s easy, and it’s simply delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner. The rich, creamy flavor will warm your heart and soul, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They cook up tender and juicy, perfect for shredding.
Mushrooms: I love using sliced mushrooms for their earthy flavor. They add depth to the soup.
Onion: A chopped onion brings sweetness and aroma, making your kitchen smell divine.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Chicken broth: This is the base of your soup. Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
Heavy cream: For that luscious, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk works well too.
Dried thyme: A sprinkle of thyme adds a lovely herbal note that complements the chicken and mushrooms.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste preferences.
Spinach: Chopped spinach not only adds color but also packs in nutrients. Feel free to swap it with kale if you prefer.
Fresh parsley: A garnish that brightens up the soup and adds a fresh finish.

For those who like to experiment, consider adding other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup

Making this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup is as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Choose chicken that looks fresh and has a nice pink color. This ensures your soup will be flavorful and tender.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Next, layer the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. These ingredients are essential for building flavor. The mushrooms will soak up the broth, while the onion and garlic will create a fragrant base.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Now, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. This is the heart of your soup! Add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to enhance the taste. The broth will meld with the chicken and veggies, creating a rich, comforting flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re short on time, the high setting works wonders! Just make sure to check the chicken for doneness; it should shred easily when it’s ready.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. This adds a lovely texture to your soup, making it hearty and satisfying. Stir it all together to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Add Cream and Spinach

Now, stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. This step is crucial for that creamy goodness! Let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes. The spinach will wilt beautifully, adding color and nutrients.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish your soup with fresh parsley before serving. This little touch brightens up the dish and adds a pop of flavor. Serve it warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
Use a good quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds a lovely finish.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; everyone’s palate is different!
For a thicker soup, let it cook uncovered for the last hour.

Equipment Needed

Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven can work too.
Cutting Board: Essential for chopping your veggies. A sturdy one makes prep easier.
Sharp Knife: A good knife is key for quick and safe chopping.
Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring broth and cream accurately.

Variations of Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans for a hearty, plant-based option.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk and skip the potatoes for a lighter soup.
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup

Pair with crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping.
Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Consider a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, to complement the flavors.
For a cozy touch, sprinkle extra parsley on top before serving.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so. The slow cooker will work its magic, and you’ll still end up with tender chicken.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version of Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It will still be creamy and delicious!

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Yes! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or even peas. They’ll enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup, making it even heartier.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a little extra comfort. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on what really matters—spending time with your loved ones. As the rich flavors meld together, you’ll find joy in every spoonful. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the aroma fill your home. Trust me, this soup will become a cherished family favorite!

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Soup for Cozy Nights

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and creamy chicken and mushroom soup made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups spinach, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach, cooking for an additional 30 minutes on low.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Category: Soup
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Slow Cooker, Creamy, Chicken, Mushroom, Soup