Mediterranean Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup
This Mediterranean Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup combines the rustic comfort of rotisserie chicken with the earthy flavors of mushrooms, all bathed in a creamy broth infused with garlic, herbs, and lemon. It’s quick, nourishing, and packed with wholesome Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, fresh thyme, and baby spinach. Whether you’re repurposing leftover chicken or starting fresh, this soup offers a deeply satisfying, protein-rich, and herbaceous meal that’s ready in under an hour—perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave something cozy but light.
Time Breakdown:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
Base:
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for subtle heat)
Vegetables & Protein:
8 oz cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery ribs, diced
2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/2 cup milk (optional for thinner consistency)
2 cups baby spinach or kale
Flavor Enhancers:
Juice of 1/2 lemon (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
Stir in garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook Vegetables and Mushrooms
Add carrots and celery. Sauté for 3–4 minutes.
Add sliced mushrooms and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–6 minutes until mushrooms release moisture and begin to brown.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth
Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Let it simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes to allow flavors to develop and vegetables to soften.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream and milk (if using). Simmer for 5 more minutes on low heat. Do not boil after adding cream.
Add spinach or kale and allow to wilt, 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra parsley or shaved Parmesan if desired, and serve with crusty bread.
Tips:
Shred Chicken While Warm: It’s easier to shred rotisserie chicken when it’s slightly warm.
Don’t Boil the Cream: After adding dairy, keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
Add Grains or Pasta: Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or orzo for added texture.
Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freeze-Friendly: Leave out the dairy and greens before freezing. Add them fresh when reheating.
Variations:
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a non-dairy version.
Low-Carb: Skip the carrots or reduce their quantity and load up on greens and mushrooms.
With Beans: Add 1 cup of canned cannellini or chickpeas for more plant-based protein.
Spicier Version: Add a dash of smoked paprika or extra chili flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie?
A: Yes! Dice boneless chicken breasts or thighs and cook them in the pot with the onions before adding vegetables.
Q: Can I use other types of mushrooms?
A: Absolutely. White button mushrooms, shiitake, or a wild mushroom blend all work well.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: Dried herbs are perfectly fine—just reduce the amount by half compared to fresh.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Combine all ingredients except dairy and spinach. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Stir in cream and spinach at the end.
Nutrition
(Per Serving – based on 6 servings):
Calories: ~310 kcal
Protein: 23g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 560mg
(May vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes)
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Mushroom Soup is your go-to for an easy, soul-warming meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. With its herbaceous aroma, velvety texture, and nutrient-packed ingredients, it’s the perfect fusion of comfort and clean eating. Whether served solo with a drizzle of olive oil or paired with crusty whole-grain bread or a crisp Mediterranean salad, this soup is a delicious way to savor the simplicity of rotisserie chicken and elevate it into something extraordinary.