Chicken Cream Of Mushroom Soup Rice Recipe

Have you ever craved a cozy, heartwarming meal that brings comfort with every bite? Look no further than the Chicken Cream of Mushroom Soup Rice recipe. This dish is a true embodiment of simplicity and flavor, combining the rich, savory notes of chicken, the earthy depth of mushrooms, and the smooth, creamy texture of a soup-based sauce. Whether you’re making it on a chilly evening or preparing something easy yet satisfying for a busy weeknight, this recipe is one that checks all the boxes.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It’s both a meal in itself and an excellent side dish to complement other hearty meals. The ingredients are accessible, and the cooking process is so straightforward that even novice chefs can whip it up in no time. Ready to dig into this delicious recipe? Let’s break it down step by step.

Chicken Cream Of Mushroom Soup Rice Recipe

This recipe is a one-pan wonder, combining protein, carbs, and creamy goodness all in one pot. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a luscious creamy mushroom soup base, every forkful is a delightful bite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or looking to impress someone special, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails.

Serves: 4-6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed

To make this easy, creamy chicken and rice recipe, you don’t need to wander down aisles searching for exotic ingredients. This dish is all about simplicity and comfort. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option) – You can use boneless, skinless cuts for convenience or bone-in for more flavor.
• 1 cup long-grain rice – Long-grain rice is ideal as it cooks perfectly, staying fluffy and separate.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This is your secret weapon for creating that rich, creamy sauce.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth – This adds depth and a savory base to the dish.
• 1 medium onion – Finely chopped; it adds sweetness and complexity.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced; because no savory dish is complete without a little garlic!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A perfect herb that complements the earthiness of mushrooms.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped – For a pop of color and a fresh finish.

Cooking Instructions

This dish comes together quickly and easily, especially if you follow a few simple steps. Here’s how to bring it all to life:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and toss in the chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add The Soup And Broth

   • Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and dried thyme. Mix well to combine, and bring it to a simmer.
   • Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

4. Cook The Rice

   • Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat it in the creamy mushroom mixture.
   • Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.

5. Shred The Chicken

   • While the rice is cooking, shred the cooked chicken using two forks or slice it into bite-sized pieces. Once the rice is cooked, add the chicken back into the pan and mix everything together.

6. Final Touch

   • Give everything a good stir, then serve hot with an optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of brightness.

Ingredient Insights

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients and their roles in this dish:

• Chicken: The star of the dish. Chicken breasts provide lean protein, but chicken thighs are great for adding a bit more flavor and juiciness. If you want to skip the chicken altogether, you can try using shredded rotisserie chicken for even more convenience.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned gem is a shortcut to creating that creamy, rich sauce without hours of cooking. It not only provides the creamy texture but also adds a depth of flavor thanks to the mushrooms.
• Rice: Long-grain rice is the best choice for this dish because it cooks evenly, remains fluffy, and doesn’t clump together. You could substitute it with other types of rice, like jasmine or basmati, for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth: The broth is essential for adding richness to the sauce while also keeping the rice moist as it cooks. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-sodium broth is a great choice.
• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics like onions and garlic are the foundation of any savory dish. They bring depth of flavor to the base and are a fantastic complement to the creamy mushroom soup.

Expert Tips

If you want to elevate this dish further, here are some expert tips to make it truly exceptional:

• Browning the chicken: Take the time to properly sear the chicken. It creates a beautiful caramelized exterior that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adding a splash of white wine: After sautéing the onions and garlic, you can add a splash of dry white wine before adding the soup and broth. It’ll deepen the flavors and add a touch of acidity to balance the creaminess.
• Cheese it up: Stir in some grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese at the end of cooking for extra creaminess and a savory kick.
• Extra veggies: Add in some chopped mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra color and nutrition. They blend well with the creamy base.
• Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make a big batch and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations to suit different tastes:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and load up on extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You could even add some plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh, for a hearty alternative.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. You could also drizzle a bit of sriracha on top for a zesty finish.
• Use different soups: While the cream of mushroom soup is a classic choice, you could switch it up with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile. For something lighter, try a fat-free or reduced-sodium version of the soup.
• Rice Substitution: You can swap the white rice for brown rice or even quinoa if you’re looking to add some extra fiber and texture. Just adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Final Words

This Chicken Cream of Mushroom Soup Rice is one of those recipes that you can always count on. It’s satisfying, comforting, and extremely versatile. You can tweak it to your liking or even make it ahead of time, making it a perfect solution for busy families or anyone looking to simplify mealtime. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.