Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Soup
Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a hearty and wholesome meal made to give new life to your leftover chicken. It’s warm, comforting, and full of flavor with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and herbs simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, cold evenings, or when you need something soothing and nourishing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this soup because it’s simple, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to use leftovers while creating a meal that tastes fresh and homemade. This soup is also customizable, allowing you to add any vegetables or grains you have on hand.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Time Taken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water (optional for thinner soup)
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Add shredded chicken, broth, thyme, and basil. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- If adding noodles or rice, stir them in and cook until tender.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
You Must Know
- This recipe is flexible, you can add corn, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Homemade or low-sodium broth gives the best results.
Storage Tips
Cool the soup completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chicken: Use leftover turkey, grilled chicken, or canned chicken.
- Vegetables: Swap carrots and celery for peas, green beans, or spinach.
- Grains: Replace noodles with quinoa, barley, or brown rice for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a light salad. Add a squeeze of lemon before serving for brightness.
Cultural and Historical Context
Chicken soup has been a symbol of comfort across cultures for centuries. Often called “the ultimate comfort food,” it’s known for its nourishing qualities and homey feel, especially in cold weather or when someone feels under the weather.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Winter: Add hearty vegetables like potatoes, kale, or parsnips.
- Summer: Use lighter vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or corn.
Success Stories
Home cooks love how easy and satisfying this soup is. It turns basic leftovers into a flavorful, filling meal that tastes freshly made.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Cool the soup completely and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. Avoid freezing soups with pasta—add noodles fresh when reheating.
Pro Tips
- Sauté the vegetables well to build flavor.
- Don’t skip the herbs, they bring the soup to life.
- Add a splash of cream or a knob of butter for extra richness.
Chef’s Special Tips
- Use homemade broth for the best taste and nutrition.
- Add a bay leaf while simmering for depth of flavor.
- For extra texture, toss in crispy croutons or roasted chickpeas before serving.
Conclusion
Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Soup is an easy, wholesome, and delicious way to transform your leftovers into something extraordinary. It’s cozy, nourishing, and made with everyday ingredients that never fail to satisfy. Make this Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Soup today and enjoy a bowl of homemade comfort that warms the heart and soul.