Rotisserie chicken makes chicken noodle soup quick, flavorful, and effortless. This recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and savory broth for a comforting meal. Whether you’re short on time or craving homemade warmth, this soup delivers every time. Read on to learn how to make the perfect rotisserie chicken noodle soup.
Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Rotisserie Chicken Recipe Is a Must-Try
Rotisserie chicken noodle soup is a game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
Quick and Convenient
Using rotisserie chicken saves time on cooking and shredding chicken from scratch. You can have a hearty soup ready in under an hour.
Rich, Homemade Flavor
Even though it’s quick, the combination of rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and your choice of noodles creates a deep, satisfying flavor. Leftover chicken bits enhance the broth naturally.
Nutritious and Comforting
Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome noodles, this soup is both filling and healthy. It’s a perfect meal for cold days, when you’re under the weather, or for a cozy family dinner.
Flexible and Adaptable
You can customize it with different vegetables, noodles, or seasonings to suit your taste. It works on the stove, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, giving you options for every schedule.
Great for Leftovers
The soup stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later. This makes it ideal for meal prep or a quick weekday dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making rotisserie chicken noodle soup is simple, and most ingredients are pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to create a flavorful, hearty soup:
Chicken and Broth
- 1 rotisserie chicken: shredded, bones reserved for broth if desired
- 6 cups chicken broth: store-bought or homemade using the reserved bones
- Optional: 1 cup water (to adjust broth consistency)
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, sliced or diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: peas, corn, or green beans for extra color and nutrition
Noodles
2 cups egg noodles or any preferred pasta
- Tip: Cook noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy if reheating
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes for added warmth
Optional Add-Ins
- Lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor
- Parmesan cheese for richness
- A splash of cream for a slightly creamy version
Ingredient Notes:
Using leftover rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and convenient. Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor, but frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch. Adjust seasonings gradually—rotisserie chicken can already be seasoned, so taste the broth before adding extra salt.
Equipment and Prep Tips
Having the right tools and prep strategy makes rotisserie chicken noodle soup quick and easy. Here’s what you need:
Essential Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven: for stove-top cooking
- Slow cooker: if you prefer a hands-off approach
- Instant Pot or pressure cooker: for a faster, rich broth
- Cutting board and knife: for chopping vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons: for accurate seasoning
- Ladle and slotted spoon: for serving and handling noodles
Prep Tips
- Shred the Chicken: Remove meat from the rotisserie chicken. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Reserve bones if you want to make a richer broth.
- Chop Vegetables Evenly: Slice carrots, celery, and onions into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Prepare Noodles Separately (Optional): Cook noodles slightly underdone if you plan to reheat soup later, preventing soggy noodles.
- Measure Seasonings Ahead: Keep herbs, salt, and pepper ready to simplify the cooking process.
- Organize Ingredients: Lay out all ingredients in bowls for a smooth, efficient cooking process.
Pro Tip: Using pre-chopped vegetables or frozen mixed veggies can save time without compromising flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This rotisserie chicken noodle soup can be made on the stove, in a slow cooker, or using an Instant Pot. Follow the method that works best for you.
Stove-Top Method
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add Chicken and Noodles: Add shredded rotisserie chicken and noodles. Cook for another 6–8 minutes until noodles are al dente.
- Season: Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately.
Slow Cooker Method
- Combine Ingredients: Place shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, chicken broth, and seasonings into the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- Add Noodles: During the last 20–30 minutes, add noodles so they cook perfectly without getting mushy.
- Finish and Serve: Taste for seasoning, adjust if needed, and serve warm.
Instant Pot Method
- Sauté Aromatics: Use the sauté function to cook onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 3–4 minutes.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in chicken broth and add shredded chicken.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- Quick Release: Carefully perform a quick pressure release.
- Cook Noodles: Add noodles and use the sauté function for 5–6 minutes until tender.
- Season and Serve: Stir in herbs, salt, and pepper, then serve hot.
Pro Tips:
For richer flavor, simmer the broth with chicken bones before adding shredded meat. Avoid overcooking noodles to prevent mushy texture. Taste frequently and adjust seasonings to suit your preference.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Soup
Follow these expert tips to make your rotisserie chicken noodle soup extra flavorful and perfectly textured:
Use the Whole Chicken
Don’t just use the meat—add the bones to the broth for richer flavor. Even a few leftover chicken bits enhance the depth of the soup.
Prevent Soggy Noodles
Cook noodles separately if you plan to store or reheat the soup. Add noodles to individual servings when reheating to maintain texture.
Layer Flavors
Sauté onions, garlic, and celery before adding broth for a more aromatic base. Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve bright, fresh flavors.
Adjust Seasonings Gradually
Rotisserie chicken is often pre-seasoned, so taste the broth before adding salt or pepper. Use a pinch of paprika, red pepper flakes, or lemon juice to boost flavor without overpowering the soup.
Make it Heartier
Add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for color and nutrition. A splash of cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds richness for a comforting touch.
Store and Reheat Smartly
Keep noodles separate when freezing the soup to prevent mushiness. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Rotisserie chicken noodle soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can make it a complete, satisfying meal.
Simple and Classic
Serve the soup in bowls with freshly cracked black pepper on top. Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme for color and flavor.
Bread Pairings
- Crusty bread or baguette: Perfect for dipping into the warm broth.
- Garlic bread: Adds a savory, aromatic touch.
- Soft dinner rolls: Ideal for soaking up every bit of soup.
Make it a Full Meal
Pair with a fresh garden salad or a side of roasted vegetables. Add a small cheese plate or crackers for a heartier spread.
Optional Garnishes
Shredded Parmesan cheese for richness. A squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor. Red pepper flakes for a little heat, if desired.
Kid-Friendly Serving
Use fun-shaped noodles for children. Serve with a side of fruit or simple breadsticks to round out the meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Rotisserie chicken noodle soup is perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Proper storage ensures the soup stays fresh and maintains its flavor and texture.
Refrigeration
Let the soup cool slightly before storing. Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keep noodles separate if possible to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Freezing
Freeze the soup in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For best results, store noodles separately and add them when reheating. Label containers with the date for easy rotation.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Gently reheat soup over medium heat until warmed through. Add noodles separately if stored apart.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to reheat, adding noodles in the last few minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the soup a day ahead to allow flavors to meld. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick weeknight dinner. Chop vegetables in advance for an even faster cooking process.
- Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking noodles during storage and reheating—they can turn mushy and absorb too much broth. Keeping them separate until serving ensures the perfect texture every time.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
Rotisserie chicken noodle soup is versatile. You can tweak ingredients and cooking methods to suit your taste, dietary needs, or what’s on hand.
Noodle Options
- Egg noodles: Classic choice for traditional texture.
- Rice noodles or gluten-free pasta: Great for gluten-free diets.
- Whole wheat or soba noodles: Adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor.
Protein Variations
- Leftover rotisserie chicken: Quick and flavorful.
- Cooked turkey or chicken breast: Works if you don’t have rotisserie chicken.
- Shredded canned chicken: Convenient alternative for emergencies.
Vegetable Swaps
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Save time and still get nutrition.
- Seasonal vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can be added near the end of cooking.
- Extra hearty: Add potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms for a more filling soup.
Broth Options
- Store-bought chicken broth: Quick and convenient.
- Homemade chicken stock: For richer, more natural flavor.
- Low-sodium broth: Control salt levels for a healthier version.
Flavor Enhancements
- Herbs: Try rosemary, dill, or basil for variety.
- Spices: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or turmeric for warmth and depth.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Serving Twists
- Chicken noodle soup with rice: Substitute noodles with cooked rice for a lighter, gluten-free option.
- Chicken noodle soup with quinoa: Boost protein and make it more filling.
Pro Tip: Taste as you go. Since rotisserie chicken is already seasoned, balance extra spices and salt gradually to avoid overpowering the soup.
Nutrition Information
Rotisserie chicken noodle soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional benefits and estimated values per serving:
Approximate Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbohydrates: 20–25g
- Fiber: 2–3g
- Fat: 8–10g
- Sodium: 700–900mg (varies with broth and seasoning)
Health Highlights
- High in Protein: The rotisserie chicken provides lean protein to support muscle repair and satiety.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables add vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Using skinless chicken or adjusting fat content keeps the soup heart-healthy.
- Hydrating and Comforting: The broth provides hydration and electrolytes, making it ideal for recovery during illness.
- Customizable for Health Goals: Use low-sodium broth, whole grain noodles, or extra vegetables to suit specific dietary needs.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, remove skin from the rotisserie chicken and use more vegetables than noodles. For a more indulgent soup, add a splash of cream or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion
Rotisserie chicken noodle soup is a simple, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any day. With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and savory broth, it comes together quickly while still feeling homemade. By following these tips, variations, and storage advice, you can enjoy this versatile soup anytime—whether for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a nourishing treat for the whole family.
FAQS
Chicken Noodle Soup Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Chop vegetables. Pull off the chicken breast meat and shred if desired. Heat olive oil over medium high heat in a large pot. Add celery, carrots and onion and saute until onions become translucent. Add in broth, salt, pepper, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, parsley, and chicken (including the whole chicken carcass.)
- Turn heat to medium and allow soup to come to a low boil for about 30 minutes or until carrots are fully softened. At this time, it is easiest to remove the chicken bones (I use a set of tongs to get the pieces of it out.
- When bones are removed, add in dry pasta and allow to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until al dente. Pour about 1 1/2-2 cups of the soup into a small bowl and whisk in the corn starch until dissolved. Add this mixture back into the soup and stir to fully combine.
- Enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Add all ingredients into the slow cooker except the pasta and the corn starch.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Remove the bones before adding the pasta. Add dry pasta and allow to cook until al dente, about 15-20 minutes (this will vary based on your crock pot and the type of pasta, so keep an eye on it.)
- Pour about 1 1/2 – 2 cups of the soup into a small bowl and whisk in the corn starch until dissolved. Add this mixture back into the soup and stir to fully combine.
- Enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.Add all ingredients into the slow cooker except the pasta and the corn starch.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours. Remove the bones before adding the pasta. Add dry pasta and allow to cook until al dente, about 15-20 minutes (this will vary based on your crock pot and the type of pasta, so keep an eye on it.)
- Pour about 1 1/2 – 2 cups of the soup into a small bowl and whisk in the corn starch until dissolved. Add this mixture back into the soup and stir to fully combine.
- Enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.