This cozy Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for those chilly days. It features tender chicken, tasty noodles, and fresh veggies all simmered in a warm broth.
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just grab a rotisserie chicken, add some broth, and let it cook while you relax with a good book. Who doesn’t enjoy a warm hug in a bowl? ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: The star of this soup! Using a rotisserie chicken saves time. If you prefer, you can also use leftover roast chicken or poach chicken breasts, though the flavor may vary.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium broth to control saltiness. You can substitute with homemade broth or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Egg Noodles: These noodles are traditional for chicken noodle soup. If you want a gluten-free version, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta shapes instead.
Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion): Classic aromatics! If you’re missing any, feel free to add bell peppers or peas. Each adds a slight twist to flavor.
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley bring warmth and depth. You can switch with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Make Sure Your Vegetables Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your veggies just right is essential. Start by adding the heartier ones first, as they take longer to cook. Here’s how to do it:
- Chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery together for 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent.
- Add garlic last, as it cooks quickly. This prevents it from burning.
- When you add the broth, remember it will simmer for 15 minutes. The carrots and celery should be tender after this time, but not mushy — so keep an eye on them!
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 rotisserie chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup will take about 15 minutes for preparation and another 30 minutes for cooking, making it a total of 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by removing the skin from the rotisserie chicken and shredding the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set the chicken aside for later.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the veggies together for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and starting to soften.
3. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This is where your kitchen starts to smell wonderful!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme and parsley. Season everything with a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the carrots and celery are tender.
5. Cook the Noodles:
While the soup is simmering, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, which should take about 6-8 minutes until they’re tender.
6. Stir in the Chicken:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and heat everything through for about 3-5 minutes. The soup should be hot and comforting!
7. Final Touches:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if you like a little brightness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
This simple yet comforting soup comes together quickly thanks to the pre-cooked chicken, making it a perfect meal for any day. Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken Instead of Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover roasted chicken or turkey, feel free to use it in this recipe. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
What Can I Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta or even rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as they may vary from regular egg noodles.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s thickened too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or even spinach for extra nutrients. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is tender!
