Name: Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491287H17M59S
Total time: PT-491287H17M59S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, white button, or shiitake), sliced; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional); Fresh parsley or a handful of spinach (optional, for garnish or greens)

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This Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup is wholesome, flavorful, and deeply nourishing. Made with lean chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh vegetables, and a light, herby broth, it’s the kind of soup I turn to when I want something simple and healing. It’s free of heavy cream or processed ingredients but still feels hearty and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this soup because it’s clean eating at its best—minimal, nourishing ingredients that come together in a soothing, flavorful bowl. The mushrooms bring a rich umami depth, while the chicken adds lean protein to keep me full. It’s great when I want something comforting but light, and it’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week. Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Yellow onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Carrots, chopped
Celery, chopped
Mushrooms (cremini, white button, or shiitake), sliced
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Low-sodium chicken broth
Bay leaf
Fresh or dried thyme
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or spinach (optional, for garnish or greens)
Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened.
I stir in the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms have released their moisture and begun to brown—about 6–8 minutes.
I place the whole chicken breasts or thighs into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. I add a bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper, then bring it to a simmer.
I cover and simmer for about 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
I remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup.
I stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs or greens if I’m using them, then taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–5 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 30–35 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in about 40–45 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a handful of cooked brown rice or quinoa to make it more filling. I’ve also stirred in kale or spinach at the end for an extra nutrient boost. If I want a ginger-infused version, I sauté a little grated ginger with the garlic for a warming twist. For extra depth, I sometimes use a mix of wild mushrooms.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup also freezes well—I let it cool completely, freeze in portions, and reheat straight from frozen or after thawing overnight in the fridge. Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, I often use shredded cooked chicken to save time. I add it after the veggies are tender and just warm it through.

What type of mushrooms work best?

I use cremini or white mushrooms most often, but shiitake, oyster, or a blend add even more flavor.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, I add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, then shred the chicken before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It is, as long as the chicken broth I use is certified gluten-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Definitely. The flavors get even better after sitting overnight, and it’s perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Clean Chicken Mushroom Soup is one of my go-to recipes when I want something that feels both nourishing and delicious. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and always leaves me feeling good. Whether I’m recovering from a cold, needing a reset meal, or just craving something warm and clean, this soup delivers every time.