Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, creamy bowl of homemade soup. If you have a leftover rotisserie chicken sitting in your fridge and are looking for a way to use it, this Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a silky texture, this soup is a must-make for any soup lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Since we’re using rotisserie chicken, there’s no need to cook raw chicken from scratch, cutting down on prep time.
- Incredibly Flavorful – The combination of mushrooms, aromatics, and creamy broth creates a deep, umami-rich flavor profile.
- Perfect for Leftovers – This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
- Customizable – You can tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed to create this cozy soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the mushrooms and aromatics.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds a depth of flavor and sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – A must for any good soup base.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – White button, cremini, or even shiitake work great.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Use homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought version.
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken – White or dark meat, or a mix of both.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich and creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup milk – Helps balance the creaminess without making it too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Enhances the earthy flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Essential for bringing out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika – Optional but adds warmth.
- 1 tablespoon flour – Helps slightly thicken the soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For extra richness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – Optional but adds freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they release their juices and begin to brown. If needed, drizzle a little olive oil to help with the cooking process.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
Once the mushrooms are nicely browned, sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the ingredients. This will help thicken the soup slightly.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Add the Cream and Milk
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream and milk. Let the soup heat through but avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the dairy to separate.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the dairy may separate upon thawing. If planning to freeze, consider leaving out the cream and adding it later when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make it Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute instead of heavy cream and milk.
- Add More Vegetables – Throw in spinach, kale, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Use Different Mushrooms – Try shiitake, portobello, or wild mushrooms for a more complex flavor.
- Thicken Without Flour – Use pureed potatoes or blended cauliflower to create a creamy texture without flour.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the rich broth.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for extra depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup is the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a gourmet-style meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a chilly evening or a delicious way to use up leftover chicken, this soup will not disappoint. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!