This comforting Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup is packed with tender chicken and hearty noodles swimming in a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal!
Making this soup is a breeze since you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken – less work and more time to relax! Enjoy a warm bowl and feel the love in every sip. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well for sautéing veggies. I prefer olive oil for its heart-healthy properties, but butter can add a rich flavor too. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or another plant-based oil.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are great, but you can use white or red onions in a pinch. If you’re short on onions, leeks or shallots make decent substitutes.
Vegetables: Celery and carrots are classic, but feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, green beans, or even spinach for more nutrition. Frozen mixed veggies can be a quick substitute too!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control salt levels. If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water will work, although this may alter the flavor slightly.
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a huge time-saver! You can use leftover cooked chicken, or even turkey if it’s available. For a vegetarian option, try shredded tofu or beans although it will change the soup’s character a bit.
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can swap in whole-grain or gluten-free noodles based on your dietary needs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Flavored Soup?
The steps leading to a tasty soup start right in the pot. Sautéing the onions, celery, and carrots at the beginning creates a flavor base. Take your time during this step to soften the veggies and enhance their taste!
- Don’t skip the garlic – it adds a punch of flavor. Add it just before you pour in the broth.
- Simmering the broth with thyme and bay leaves will fill your kitchen with comforting aromas. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving!
- Taste the broth after adding the chicken and noodles. Adjust with salt and pepper to match your preference.
Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like dill or parsley to adjust the flavor to your liking. Each tweak can make the soup uniquely yours!
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2-3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 6 ounces egg noodles or any preferred wide noodles
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, ready in less than an hour!
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften up and the onion is a bit translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Now stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This is when the kitchen starts to smell amazing!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Add the chicken broth to the pot along with the dried thyme and bay leaves. Turn up the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, which will brighten and bloom the flavors!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Add Chicken:
Now it’s time to stir in the tender, shredded rotisserie chicken. Mix it in well with the rest of the ingredients in the pot.
6. Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 6-8 minutes) until they’re perfectly al dente!
7. Season the Soup:
Before serving, remove the bay leaves and taste the soup. Add salt and black pepper according to your liking. This step lets you customize the flavor just how you enjoy it!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, adding a splash of color and freshness. Ladle the soup into bowls, and feel free to sprinkle some extra parsley on top for that lovely finishing touch!
That’s it! You now have a delicious Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup that’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying all on your own!
Can I Use Store-Bought Broth for This Soup?
Absolutely! Store-bought broth is a great time-saver. If using store-bought, opt for low-sodium versions to control the seasoning. You can also enhance the flavor by adding some herbs or spices while it simmers.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Just omit the noodles if you plan to freeze it, as they can become mushy. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the rotisserie chicken for cooked beans or tofu for a vegetarian option, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might also want to increase the amount of veggies to maintain a hearty flavor and texture.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to experiment! Adding spices like a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can give a nice kick. Fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro can also add freshness. For added richness, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving!
