Rotisserie chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or when you're feeling under the weather. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make, even easier than making your own chicken from scratch! This recipe focuses on simplicity and maximum flavor, using the readily available rotisserie chicken as our star ingredient. Let's dive into making a delicious and healthy bowl of goodness.
What are the best vegetables for rotisserie chicken soup?
The beauty of rotisserie chicken soup lies in its versatility. You can use almost any vegetable you enjoy! Classic choices include carrots, celery, and onion (the holy trinity of soup!), but don't be afraid to experiment. Consider adding:
- Root vegetables: Potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet), parsnips, sweet potatoes add sweetness and heartiness.
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, or chard add a nutritional boost at the end of cooking.
- Other additions: Corn (fresh or frozen), green beans, peas, zucchini—the possibilities are endless! Just keep in mind cooking times; some vegetables need longer to soften than others.
How do I make rotisserie chicken soup thicker?
Achieving the perfect soup consistency is key. If your soup is too thin, here are some simple thickening techniques:
- Starchy vegetables: Potatoes and other root vegetables naturally thicken the broth as they cook. Adding a few extra chunks can make a difference.
- Noodles or rice: Adding small pasta shapes like ditalini, or rice (like Arborio or short-grain) towards the end of cooking will absorb liquid and thicken the soup.
- Flour or cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Slowly whisk this slurry into the simmering soup, stirring constantly until thickened. This is a quick method, but be careful not to overcook, as it can create a gummy texture.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred or chop it before adding it to the soup. This is a great way to use up leftover chicken from another meal and avoid food waste.
How long does rotisserie chicken soup last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your rotisserie chicken soup will last for 3-4 days. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
What are the health benefits of rotisserie chicken soup?
Rotisserie chicken soup is not only delicious but also surprisingly healthy. It's a great source of protein from the chicken and provides plenty of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The broth itself is hydrating and can be soothing when you're feeling unwell.
How do I make rotisserie chicken soup ahead of time?
This soup is fantastic for meal prepping! You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It even tastes better the next day! Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Recipe: Easy Rotisserie Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups shredded chicken)
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, potatoes, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This simple recipe is a fantastic starting point; feel free to adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Enjoy your delicious and easy rotisserie chicken soup!
