If you are craving a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this delightful Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe is just what you need. Loaded with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the perfect touch of creamy richness, this soup balances flavor and heartiness in every spoonful. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that brings together fresh ingredients and fragrant Italian seasoning to brighten up your mealtime. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight supper or something to prepare ahead for the family, this Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe fits the bill with ease and incredible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the straightforward list fool you—each ingredient plays an essential role in creating a soup that’s both savory and soulful. From the olive oil that gently sautés your veggies to the half-and-half that adds that lovely creamy finish, every component contributes to the perfect texture, color, and flavor balance.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The foundation for sautéing onions and mushrooms, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped finely): Brings a sweet and savory base with a light crunch when sautéed.
- 6 ounces crimini mushrooms (sliced or chopped): Adds an earthy depth and beautiful texture to the soup.
- 2 large carrots (peeled & sliced thin): Infuses natural sweetness and a vibrant splash of color.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of aromatic warmth that lifts the entire dish.
- 6 dashes Italian seasoning: A necessary herbal blend that ties all the flavors together wonderfully.
- 2 (10 fl oz) cans chicken broth or stock: The flavorful liquid base that enriches every sip.
- 4 cups water: Helps balance the broth’s intensity and keeps the soup light.
- 1 cup tubular pasta (e.g., ditali, ditalini, macaroni): Adds bite-sized heartiness and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded): The star protein that makes this soup satisfyingly filling.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Gives the soup a smooth, creamy texture without overwhelming richness.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient’s natural goodness.
How to Make Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe
Step 1: Start With Sautéing Onions in Olive Oil
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot on medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them gently for about 5 minutes until they turn translucent and soften, releasing their natural sweetness. This step sets the aromatic base for the soup and makes a huge flavor difference.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mushrooms and Carrots
While your onions are cooking, take the time to slice or chop the crimini mushrooms and peel and thinly slice the carrots. These veggies will not only add layers of taste but also bring wholesome texture and eye-catching color to your soup.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic Together
Add the mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot with the softened onions. Cook everything for another 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their delicious earthy flavor, while the garlic infuses the oil with its fragrant aroma. This combination is key to the deep, savory character of this Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe.
Step 4: Add Carrots, Seasoning, Broth, and Water
Next, toss in the sliced carrots along with the Italian seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then crank up the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The broth is the heart of the soup, offering rich flavor while the vegetables and herbs soak up and mingle beautifully.
Step 5: Incorporate Pasta and Chicken, Then Simmer
Now it’s time to add your choice of tubular pasta and the shredded cooked chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium to maintain a steady simmer. Let the soup cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick or clump. This step ensures the pasta softens perfectly and the chicken stays tender.
Step 6: Finish With Half-and-Half and Seasoning
For that satisfying creamy finish, stir in the half-and-half as well as salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Check your carrots at this stage—they should be tender yet hold a slight bite. If they need more time, just give it a few extra minutes. And there you have it, a bowl brimming with comforting goodness!
How to Serve Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled on top elevate the visual appeal and add a fresh contrast to the warm, creamy soup. A dash of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a lovely salty note, while a swirl of extra virgin olive oil offers a silky finish. These simple garnishes make your bowl feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty bread or warm garlic toast for dipping into the velvety broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup perfectly. You could also serve it alongside a simple cheese plate or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls to give a cozy, homemade feel, or get creative by topping it with crunchy toasted breadcrumbs for texture contrast. For parties, serve in shot glasses or small cups as an elegant appetizer. You can also ladle this Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe into hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and festive presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the pasta soaks up liquid over time, it’s best to store the soup separately from the pasta if possible or add a splash of broth when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that pasta can become mushy after freezing and thawing, so you might prefer to freeze the soup base without pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If the soup is too thick, add a little broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid high heat to prevent the half-and-half from curdling, ensuring the soup stays silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms for this Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While crimini mushrooms offer a nice balance of flavor and texture, you can use button, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms depending on what you have on hand or prefer. Each will bring its own unique twist to the soup.
Is it okay to use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, definitely. In fact, using leftover rotisserie or roasted chicken makes this recipe super convenient and flavorful. Just shred or chop the chicken before adding it to the soup.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or any plant-based cream for a creamy dairy-free version. The soup will still have that lovely richness but be suitable for those avoiding dairy.
What pasta works best in Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe?
Tubular pastas like ditali, ditalini, or small macaroni hold up well in this soup, offering texture without overpowering the other ingredients. Avoid very thin pasta that might get mushy or large shapes that won’t blend as nicely.
How can I make the soup more filling?
To make the soup heartier, add extra shredded chicken or throw in beans such as cannellini or chickpeas. You could also mix in some cooked brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and bulk.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again. It’s simple, comforting, and full of flavors that bring warmth to every spoonful. The ease of prep combined with the rich, satisfying results makes it perfect for any day you need a little extra love in your meal. Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of cozy deliciousness—you won’t regret it!
Print
Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Mushroom Soup combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup features a hearty mix of pasta and a touch of half-and-half for richness, all simmered to perfection in a large pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped finely
- 6 ounces crimini mushrooms, sliced or chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced thin
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 dashes Italian seasoning
- 2 (10 fluid ounce) cans chicken broth or stock
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup tubular pasta (e.g. ditali, ditalini, macaroni, etc.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (e.g. rotisserie or leftover), shredded
- 1 cup half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the onion is cooking, chop the mushrooms and carrots so they are ready to add.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot with the onion. Sauté for another 5 minutes until mushrooms begin to release their juices and soften.
- Add Broth and Carrots: Stir in the sliced carrots, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, and water. Raise heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add Pasta and Chicken: Stir in the tubular pasta and shredded cooked chicken. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking, until pasta is tender and chicken is heated through.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the half-and-half along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors and ensure carrots are tender. Adjust cooking time if carrots need more softening.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- You can substitute half-and-half with milk for a lighter soup or cream for a richer version.
- To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta of choice.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by varying the amount of water or broth.
- Italian seasoning can be replaced with Italian herbs blend or dried basil and oregano.
