Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
Introduction
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup is one of those comforting dishes that can warm your soul and satisfy your hunger, all while being incredibly easy to make. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity—using store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut down on preparation time, while still delivering a homemade taste. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, enjoying a cozy evening, or simply craving a bowl of something hearty, this recipe delivers comfort in every spoonful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a weekend treat.
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups egg noodles or any preferred pasta
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken. Make sure to discard the skin and bones, leaving just the tender meat. Set aside. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, releasing the aroma of the garlic into the air.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour the chicken broth into the pot, followed by the dried thyme and parsley. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the broth to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles or preferred pasta to the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking.
Step 5: Add the Shredded Chicken
Once the noodles are cooked, add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the soup. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the soup. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb some of the broth’s flavors.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade chicken noodle soup.
Tips and Tricks
- For a more robust flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- You can add other vegetables like peas or corn to make the soup heartier.
- For extra richness, a dollop of sour cream can be stirred into each bowl before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use a hand blender to partially puree some of the vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 20g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Q&A Section
Q: Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Egg noodles are a classic choice, but you can opt for gluten-free pasta or other shapes like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth as the noodles tend to absorb liquid over time.
Q: Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
A: To make this soup lighter, you can use a low-sodium broth and swap the egg noodles for a whole-grain or vegetable-based pasta. You can also reduce the amount of oil or use a non-stick spray to sauté the vegetables.
Conclusion
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. With the added convenience of rotisserie chicken, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a warm, nourishing meal, this soup will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.