The Ultimate Guide to Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipes

Exploring the History of Cream of Mushroom Soup in American Cooking

Cream of mushroom soup first made its way onto the American culinary scene in the early 20th century. With the introduction of condensed soups by Campbell’s in 1934, it became an instant pantry staple. Why? Convenience! With a single can, you had a creamy, flavorful base for casseroles, soups, and even sauces. It was a quick way to transform simple ingredients—like chicken—into something hearty and satisfying.

Fast-forward to today, and this iconic ingredient remains a go-to for busy families and comfort food lovers alike. The versatility of cream of mushroom soup makes it a star ingredient in everything from vintage potluck casseroles to modern-day meal preps.

5 More Mouthwatering Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipes

4. Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet

This recipe is all about bold flavors and quick results, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

What You’ll Need:

• 4 chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste

How to Make It:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream, if using. Add thyme for a savory twist.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with crusty bread or pour the sauce over mashed potatoes for the ultimate indulgence.

5. Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This cozy dish combines the heartiness of chicken with the nutty flavor of wild rice.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced carrots and celery
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the rice is tender.
3. Give it a good stir before serving, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Pro Tip: A splash of heavy cream at the end makes this soup extra luxurious.

6. Chicken and Mushroom Pot Pie

A flaky, buttery crust meets creamy chicken and mushroom filling. Yum!

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn work well)
• 1 refrigerated pie crust
• Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the chicken, soup, and vegetables. Add salt, pepper, and paprika for seasoning.
3. Roll out the pie crust into a pie dish and add the filling.
4. Top with another layer of pie crust, sealing the edges and cutting small vents for steam.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

7. Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta

Because pasta + cream sauce = pure happiness.

What You’ll Need:

• 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk or chicken broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make It:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms until soft. Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk, stirring until smooth.
3. Toss in the cooked chicken and pasta, mixing until coated.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.

Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

8. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Bake

This casserole-style recipe is a one-pan wonder, combining protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, soup, broccoli, and rice.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and top with shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestion: A side of garlic bread or a light Caesar salad rounds out this meal perfectly.

Tips for Customizing These Recipes

• Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken? Turkey or pork chops work just as well.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Basil, parsley, or rosemary can elevate the flavor instantly.
• Experiment with Grains: Try quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a unique twist.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or almond milk-based soups.

How to Make Your Own Cream of Mushroom Soup

For a homemade touch, skip the canned version and make your own cream of mushroom soup. It’s easier than you’d think!

What You’ll Need:

• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

How to Make It:

1. In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the mushrooms until soft.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms, stirring to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the broth and milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Use this homemade version in any recipe that calls for cream of mushroom soup.

3 Quick Meal Prep Ideas with Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup

1. Freezer-Friendly Chicken Casserole

Assemble your favorite chicken bake recipe, but instead of baking it, freeze it for later. Perfect for busy weeks!

2. Soup for the Week

Double the slow cooker chicken and wild rice soup recipe, and store portions in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches.

3. Pasta Night Shortcut

Cook a big batch of creamy chicken pasta and portion it out for easy reheating.

The Nutritional Benefits of These Recipes

Chicken and cream of mushroom soup recipes are not just tasty—they’re packed with nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and satisfied.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants.
• Customizable Calories: Use low-fat versions of cream of mushroom soup and add vegetables to make it lighter.

FAQs About Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipes

1. Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can! Cream of chicken soup is a great substitute if you’re not a fan of mushrooms or want a slightly different flavor. It works seamlessly in any of the recipes mentioned.

2. What’s the best way to cook chicken for these recipes?

You can bake, boil, or pan-sear chicken, depending on your preference. For casseroles, pre-cooked shredded chicken works best, while seared chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for skillet recipes.

3. Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Many of these recipes, like casseroles and soups, are perfect for meal prep. Assemble the dish, refrigerate, and bake or reheat when ready to serve. Some, like the crockpot recipe, can even be frozen for later.

4. How do I make these recipes healthier?

You can make these dishes lighter by:

• Using low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
• Opting for grilled or baked chicken instead of fried.
• Adding more vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Replacing heavy cream with almond milk or Greek yogurt in sauces.

5. What’s the best side dish to serve with these recipes?

• For casseroles: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• For skillet dishes: Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
• For soups: A warm baguette or cheesy garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.

6. Can I add fresh mushrooms to these recipes?

Yes! Fresh mushrooms add extra flavor and texture. Sauté them first in butter or olive oil to bring out their natural flavor before adding them to the dish.

7. Are these recipes gluten-free?

Some recipes are naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Always check ingredient labels, especially for soups, broths, and toppings like breadcrumbs.

8. Can I freeze dishes made with cream of mushroom soup?

Most of these recipes freeze beautifully! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

9. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers

For soups and skillet dishes, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For casseroles, cover with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

10. Can I make a dairy-free version of these recipes?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own using coconut milk or almond milk as the base. For creaminess, you can also add blended cashews or a vegan cream substitute.

CONCLUSION

Chicken and cream of mushroom soup recipes are the ultimate comfort food. They’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights. From creamy casseroles and hearty soups to skillet dinners and pasta bakes, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply indulging in a little self-care through food, these recipes hit all the right notes.

The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. A can of cream of mushroom soup, some chicken, and a few pantry staples are all it takes to create something truly satisfying. Plus, with plenty of ways to customize, like adding veggies or swapping proteins, you’ll never run out of delicious ideas.