Repurposing leftovers into a comforting meal is a creative way to reduce food waste while enjoying delicious dishes. This Chicken Breast and Leftover Quinoa Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, hearty soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With the protein-packed goodness of chicken breast, the nutty flavor of quinoa, and the velvety richness of cream of mushroom soup, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to make the most of their leftovers.
The Importance of Using Leftovers
Why Should We Use Leftovers?
Food waste is a global issue, with millions of tons of edible food discarded every year. By creatively repurposing leftovers, you contribute to a more sustainable environment while saving money and time. Leftovers like quinoa and chicken breast are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for soups, casseroles, and salads.
For more ways to use leftover ingredients, visit this guide on delicious leftover rotisserie chicken recipes.
Key Ingredients in This Recipe
1. Chicken Breast: A Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is a staple in many households due to its versatility, ease of preparation, and high protein content. Whether grilled, shredded, or roasted, its neutral flavor absorbs the creamy richness of this soup.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein for muscle repair and growth.
- Low in fat and calories, making it ideal for weight management.
- A rich source of vitamins B6 and B12, which support brain health.
To cook chicken breast perfectly, check out this comprehensive cooking guide.
2. Quinoa: The Superfood You Should Love
Quinoa, a nutrient-dense seed often mistaken for a grain, is perfect for soups due to its nutty flavor and firm texture. When refrigerated, its slight chewiness adds a delightful contrast to creamy dishes.
Why Use Quinoa?
- Gluten-free and suitable for various diets.
- A complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
- Packed with fiber for better digestion.
Explore more about the health benefits of quinoa in this nutritional guide.
3. Cream of Mushroom Soup: The Velvety Base
The cream of mushroom soup forms the backbone of this dish, offering a luscious texture and an earthy umami flavor. Store-bought versions are convenient, but a homemade version can elevate the dish even further.
Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe:
- Sauté mushrooms and onions in butter until tender.
- Add flour to create a roux, then whisk in milk or cream.
- Simmer until thickened and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
For a detailed recipe, check out this homemade soup guide.
Full Recipe: Chicken Breast and Leftover Quinoa Cream of Mushroom Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast (pre-cooked or leftover)
- 1 cup leftover quinoa
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, croutons
Preparation Instructions
1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 4 minutes.
2: Create the Soup Base
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth, then bring it to a gentle simmer.
3: Incorporate Proteins and Grains
- Add the shredded chicken breast and leftover quinoa to the pot.
- Sprinkle in thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4: Simmer and Serve
- Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley, Parmesan, or croutons.
Tips for Perfect Soup
- Achieving the Right Consistency
If the soup is too thick, add more broth. For a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the pot. - Enhancing Flavor
A splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce can add depth. - Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
Dairy-Free Option
Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
Vegetarian Version
Omit the chicken and add diced tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based protein.
Spicy Twist
Add cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Low-Carb Alternative
Substitute quinoa with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
- Protein: The chicken breast and quinoa offer high-quality protein.
- Fiber: Quinoa supports digestion and keeps you fuller longer.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Mushrooms, onions, and thyme are rich in antioxidants, potassium, and B vitamins.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
1. Turn It into a Casserole
Mix the soup with cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake until golden.
2. Stuffed Peppers
Use the soup as a filling for bell peppers, then bake for a hearty, comforting dish.
3. Creamy Sauce
Reduce the soup to a thicker consistency and use it as a sauce for grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with:
- A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Warm, crusty garlic bread.
- A glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing herbal tea.
FAQs
Simple Chicken Breast and Leftover Quinoa Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup leftover quinoa
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and mushrooms, and cook until softened.
- Add Soup Base: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Incorporate Chicken and Quinoa: Add the shredded chicken and quinoa to the pot. Stir and heat for 5–7 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Easy Chicken Breast and Leftover Quinoa Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast (grilled or roasted, diced)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups water or chicken stock
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- In a pot, mix cream of mushroom soup and chicken stock. Simmer over medium heat.
- Add chicken, quinoa, and spinach to the soup.
- Heat until warm and spinach is wilted. Stir in Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chicken Breast and Quinoa Recipes
- Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Bowl:
- Ingredients: Grilled chicken, quinoa, spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta, lemon dressing.
- Assemble in a bowl and drizzle with dressing.
- Chicken Quinoa Stir-Fry:
- Ingredients: Diced chicken, cooked quinoa, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, mixed vegetables.
- Stir-fry for a quick, healthy meal.
Easy Quinoa and Chicken Recipes
- Quinoa Chicken Salad:
- Combine quinoa, shredded chicken, chopped kale, cranberries, almonds, and balsamic vinaigrette.
- One-Pan Quinoa Chicken Bake:
- Layer chicken breasts over quinoa mixed with chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Quinoa Recipes with Chicken
- Chicken Quinoa Buddha Bowl:
- Add shredded chicken, cooked quinoa, roasted veggies, avocado, and a tahini drizzle.
- Cheesy Chicken Quinoa Casserole:
- Mix quinoa, cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, broccoli, and shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Quinoa Chicken Recipes Healthy
- Lemon Herb Quinoa Chicken Bowl:
- Toss quinoa with grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, and lemon-herb dressing for a nutrient-packed meal.
- Southwest Chicken Quinoa Skillet:
- Sauté chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and quinoa with taco seasoning for a flavorful dish.
Chicken Rice Quinoa Recipe
- Chicken and Quinoa Pilaf:
- Combine cooked quinoa, rice, shredded chicken, sautéed onions, carrots, and peas. Season with garlic and soy sauce.
- Chicken, Rice, and Quinoa Soup:
- Simmer shredded chicken, cooked rice, quinoa, chicken broth, and mixed vegetables for a hearty soup.
Chicken Quinoa Spinach Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 lb chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine quinoa, chicken, spinach, soup, milk, and spices.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour mixture into the baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 20 minutes.
- Serve Hot: Perfect for a comforting and nutritious dinner.
For more creative ideas, visit this ultimate guide to rotisserie chicken storage and usage.
Conclusion: Comfort in Every Spoonful
Transforming chicken breast, leftover quinoa, and cream of mushroom soup into a hearty, flavorful dish is not just a recipe—it’s a celebration of resourceful cooking. This soup is a perfect example of how simple, everyday ingredients can be elevated into a comforting meal that nourishes both the body and soul. Try it today and savor every creamy, flavorful bite!