Easy Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a game-changer when it comes to convenience without compromising flavor. The rotisserie chicken adds depth to the broth, and the addition of celery, carrots, and onions gives the soup a delightful freshness. The herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano infuse the broth with a comforting aroma, while the dry pasta makes each bowl hearty and filling. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome meal in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 rotisserie chicken (fully cooked, approx. 2 1/2 pounds), (still on bone)
• 12 cups chicken broth
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 4-5 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp parsley (dried)
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp cracked pepper
• 2 cups dry pasta
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (can use arrowroot powder)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for stovetop)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Broth: Remove the rotisserie chicken from the bones and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add the Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the garlic powder, parsley, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and cracked pepper. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
3. Simmer the Soup: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the dry pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
5. Thicken the Soup: While the soup is simmering, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water to create a slurry. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry into the soup, stirring constantly, to thicken the broth. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the soup reaches your desired thickness.
6. Add the Chicken: Stir the shredded rotisserie chicken into the soup and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can replace the chicken with extra vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or potatoes for a heartier soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you might need to add more broth when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken. Just be sure to add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with any kind you prefer, such as egg noodles, macaroni, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, add extra broth to adjust the consistency.

Can I use store-bought broth or homemade broth?

Both store-bought and homemade chicken broth will work in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the salt level since store-bought broths can sometimes be saltier.

Can I add herbs or spices to adjust the flavor?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like garlic, rosemary, or bay leaves, or even a splash of lemon juice for some added brightness.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this soup?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for this soup. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions for gluten-free pasta as it often cooks faster than regular pasta.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Add all ingredients except the pasta and cornstarch to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Once ready, cook the pasta separately and stir it in before serving, then add the cornstarch slurry to thicken.

Can I skip the cornstarch?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter broth, you can skip the cornstarch. The soup will be a bit thinner, but still delicious.

How do I make this soup thicker without cornstarch?

If you’d like to make the soup thicker without cornstarch, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender, then return it to the pot.

Conclusion

Easy Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in no time. With the rich flavor of rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, this soup is both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy, satisfying meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!

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