Rotisserie chicken noodle soup has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially on those chilly evenings when I need something quick and heartwarming. I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday; I had a mountain of work and zero energy to cook. Pulling a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store felt like a secret weapon, and within an hour, the most delicious, savory rotisserie chicken noodle soup was filling my kitchen with its amazing aroma. This easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup recipe is a lifesaver, proving that homemade can be incredibly simple and deeply satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
- Incredible Speed: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken drastically cuts down cooking time, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Deep Flavor: The rotisserie chicken adds a rich, savory depth that you just can’t get from cooking chicken from scratch in the same amount of time.
- Ultimate Comfort: This is pure comfort in a bowl, warming you from the inside out with every spoonful.
- Simple to Make: Even if you’re new to cooking, this easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup is incredibly straightforward.
- Versatile: Feel free to add extra veggies or herbs to customize this homemade rotisserie chicken noodle soup to your liking.
- Budget-Friendly: Rotisserie chickens are often an economical choice, making this a satisfying and affordable meal.
- Nourishing: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that feels good to eat.
Ingredients for Your Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making my favorite easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup. Using a rotisserie chicken is a game-changer, providing pre-cooked, flavorful meat that speeds up the process significantly. You’ll also need some basic aromatics and pantry staples to create this truly comforting dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium) – the foundation of flavor
- 1 cup chopped carrots (about 2 medium) – adds sweetness and color
- 1 cup chopped celery (about 2 ribs) – for that classic soup aroma and texture
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory kick
- 8 cups chicken broth – a good quality broth makes a difference in this rotisserie chicken soup with noodles
- 1 pound rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups) – the star of our homemade rotisserie chicken noodle soup!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds an earthy note
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – complements the chicken beautifully
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – always season generously
- 6 ounces egg noodles – the classic noodle for this dish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – for a burst of freshness at the end
How to Make Easy Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
This recipe for rotisserie chicken noodle soup is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for even beginner cooks. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this comforting meal!
- Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This is where the magic begins for our savory rotisserie chicken noodle soup.
- Step 2: Add 1 cup of chopped yellow onion, 1 cup of chopped carrots, and 1 cup of chopped celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they start to soften, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell wonderfully fragrant.
- Step 3: Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute until it becomes really aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as that can make the soup bitter.
- Step 4: Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth. Now, add the star of the show: 1 pound of shredded rotisserie chicken, along with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Give everything a good stir.
- Step 5: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This crucial step allows all those wonderful flavors from the rotisserie chicken and herbs to meld together beautifully, creating a truly comforting rotisserie chicken noodle soup.
- Step 6: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really brings out the best in this dish.
- Step 7: Add 6 ounces of egg noodles to the simmering soup. Cook them according to the package directions, which is typically around 8 to 10 minutes, until they are perfectly tender.
- Step 8: Finally, stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley just before serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to your delicious, homemade rotisserie chicken noodle soup. Enjoy this quick rotisserie chicken noodle soup!
Pro Tips for the Best Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
Want to elevate your noodle soup game? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned that make this rotisserie chicken noodle soup truly shine:
- Always use a good quality, flavorful rotisserie chicken. The better the chicken, the richer your soup will be.
- Don’t skip sautéing the mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery). This builds a crucial flavor base for your soup.
- Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process, especially before adding the noodles.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a bay leaf while simmering and remove it before serving.
What’s the secret to perfect rotisserie chicken noodle soup?
The real secret to a perfect savory rotisserie chicken noodle soup is building flavor from the start. Sautéing your vegetables until tender and using a high-quality chicken broth are key. The rotisserie chicken provides a wonderful depth, but these steps ensure every spoonful is delicious.
Can I make rotisserie chicken noodle soup ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-5) a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add the noodles just before reheating and serving to prevent them from getting mushy. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option. For more meal prep ideas, check out these cold lunch ideas for adults.
How do I avoid common mistakes with rotisserie chicken noodle soup?
The biggest pitfall is overcooking the noodles, making them mushy. Add them near the end of cooking. Also, be sure to taste and adjust your salt and pepper before serving; the rotisserie chicken can add saltiness, so season carefully.
Best Ways to Serve Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting rotisserie chicken noodle soup is fantastic on its own, but serving it with a few simple pairings can make it an even more satisfying meal. For a truly classic experience, I love serving a big bowl of this homemade rotisserie chicken noodle soup with some crusty bread for dipping. A simple baguette or even some garlic toast works wonderfully to soak up that flavorful broth.
Another great idea for enjoying your easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup is alongside a light, fresh salad. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette or a Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the warm, savory soup. Don’t forget to offer a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley on top for a final touch of brightness! If you’re looking for more salad inspiration, this creamy homemade broccoli salad is a crowd-pleaser.
Nutrition Facts for Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
This savory rotisserie chicken noodle soup is a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (recipe makes 6 servings, approximately 1.5 cups each):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific rotisserie chicken and chicken broth used. For more information on healthy eating, consider resources like the USDA MyPlate program.
How to Store and Reheat Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
One of the best things about this easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep. Once your delicious noodle soup using rotisserie chicken has cooled down a bit, transfer it into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This means you can have a comforting bowl ready whenever the craving strikes!
If you want to store it for even longer, this rotisserie chicken noodle soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade rotisserie chicken noodle soup again, the best way to reheat it is on the stovetop. Gently warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If the soup seems a bit thick after storing, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup
Is rotisserie chicken the best chicken to use for noodle soup?
For a quick and flavorful rotisserie chicken noodle soup, yes! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is fantastic because it’s already seasoned and tender, saving you a lot of time. It adds a depth of flavor to your homemade rotisserie chicken noodle soup that you might not get from plain boiled chicken, especially when you’re in a hurry. If you’re interested in other chicken preparations, you might like these easy chicken salad recipes.
Can I make this rotisserie chicken noodle soup healthier?
Absolutely! To make this easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup healthier, you can load it up with more vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach. Opt for whole wheat noodles or even spiralized zucchini noodles for added fiber. Using a lower-sodium chicken broth is also a great way to reduce the sodium content in your savory rotisserie chicken noodle soup.
What if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?
No rotisserie chicken? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe. Boil or poach about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through, then shred them. Alternatively, you can use leftover cooked chicken you might have on hand. The key is to have about 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken for your noodle soup using rotisserie chicken. For more chicken cooking methods, explore this guide on how to brine chicken.
How do I thicken my rotisserie chicken noodle soup if needed?
If you prefer a thicker broth for your comforting rotisserie chicken noodle soup, you have a few options. You can make a slurry by whisking together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 4 tablespoons of cold water, then stirring it into the simmering soup until it thickens. Another method is to mash some of the cooked carrots or noodles against the side of the pot to release their starches.
Variations of Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup You Can Try
This versatile rotisserie chicken noodle soup recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, rice noodles, or even spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, grain-free take on this easy rotisserie chicken noodle soup.
- Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup: For a richer, more decadent experience, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking. This transforms your humble soup into a comforting, creamy rotisserie chicken soup with noodles.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the herbs, or a dash of hot sauce at the end, to give your savory rotisserie chicken noodle soup a pleasant warmth.
- Vegetarian Option: While this recipe calls for rotisserie chicken, you can easily make a vegetarian noodle soup using vegetable broth and adding extra hearty vegetables like potatoes, peas, or corn for substance.
Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup: Quick Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe uses rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful homemade chicken noodle soup. It’s a comforting and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium)
- 1 cup chopped carrots (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup chopped celery (about 2 ribs)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 6 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in fresh parsley just before serving. This rotisserie chicken noodle soup is ready to enjoy.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use good quality chicken broth.
- Adjust seasonings as needed.
- You can add other vegetables like peas or corn.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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