Making chicken soup is a comforting classic, but who has time to boil a whole chicken? Using rotisserie chicken is a game-changer, transforming this comforting meal from a time-consuming project into a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This guide will walk you through making a flavorful and healthy chicken soup using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a soothing meal.
Why Use Rotisserie Chicken for Soup?
Rotisserie chicken offers several advantages when making soup:
- Time-saving: Skip the hours of cooking a whole chicken. Rotisserie chicken is already cooked, saving you significant time and effort.
- Convenience: Readily available at most grocery stores, making it a convenient ingredient.
- Flavorful: The roasting process imparts a delicious flavor to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups)
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped cooked pasta (optional, such as ditalini, small shells, or egg noodles)
- 1 cup chopped fresh vegetables (optional, such as peas, green beans, or corn)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic. If using fresh vegetables, chop those as well.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly tender. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots and celery are tender.
- Add the chicken and pasta (if using): Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked pasta (if using). Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat through. If using fresh vegetables, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How Long Does Rotisserie Chicken Soup Last?
Properly stored, your delicious chicken soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Follow steps 1-2 above. Then, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Other great additions include:
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness to the soup.
- Spinach: Add a handful of spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy flavor.
- Zucchini: Diced zucchini adds a light, summery touch.
How to Make It Even Healthier?
- Use low-sodium chicken broth: This helps control the sodium content.
- Add more vegetables: Increase the amount of vegetables for added nutrients and fiber.
- Use whole-wheat pasta: Opt for whole-wheat pasta for added fiber.
This recipe offers a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a classic chicken soup. The convenience of using rotisserie chicken allows you to create a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!
