If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and absolutely delicious, this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy shredded rotisserie chicken swirling in a rich, velvety broth that’s packed with fresh vegetables and a lovely hint of herbs. It’s the perfect hug in a bowl on a chilly day or anytime you want a simple, satisfying meal without hours of cooking. This recipe effortlessly brings together familiar ingredients into an unforgettable, creamy delight that’s both nourishing and soul-soothing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe is how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is. Every component plays a vital role in contributing to the vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and beautiful color of the soup.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and helps soften the base vegetables beautifully.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 carrots (peeled and sliced): Bring a delicate sweetness and vibrant orange hue.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Offer a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances the creaminess.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a warm aromatic kick without overpowering the soup.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickening agent, giving the soup its silky texture.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The savory backbone of the soup, ensuring every spoonful is flavorful.
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: The star protein that makes this soup hearty and satisfying.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that lingers pleasantly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle, complementary spice.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Brings bursts of sweetness and a pop of bright green color.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy without heaviness if half-and-half is used.
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish: Adds freshness and a lovely visual finish.
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they begin to soften and release their natural aromas. Adding the garlic after gives a lovely fragrance that sets the base for your soup.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Cooking this mixture for a couple of minutes helps cook out the raw flour taste, which is essential for a smooth and subtly nutty flavor in the soup’s creamy base.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps forming. This step transforms your base into a luscious broth that will gently thicken as you bring it to a boil. After boiling, reduce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to deepen.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper into your simmering soup. Give everything a gentle mix, then let it cook together for another 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to warm through and the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 5: Stir in Peas and Cream
Add the frozen peas and heavy cream or half-and-half last. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes just until everything is heated through. Be careful not to let the soup boil once the cream is added, as it could separate and lose that beautiful silkiness you’re aiming for.
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top not only brightens the presentation but also adds a subtle herbaceous freshness that balances the creamy richness. You can also add a dash of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra peppery kick.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs incredibly well with crusty bread or buttered rustic rolls—perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is also a great way to add contrast and some crunch alongside the comforting soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy touch, serve the soup in individual bread bowls or inside wide, shallow bowls with a swirl of cream on top. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or some crispy bacon bits for an indulgent twist that’s sure to impress anyone you’re sharing the Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe with.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe freezes beautifully, though it’s best to leave out the cream if you plan to freeze it, adding it fresh when reheating. Freeze in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months to enjoy warm comfort anytime.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to prevent curdling, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, simply add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Any cooked chicken will work perfectly in this recipe, making it a great way to use up leftovers and transform them into a cozy meal.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy creamer of your choice. Just be mindful of how this might slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced potatoes, green beans, or even corn for added texture and variety. Just add them early enough to cook through completely.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy but still pourable—a smooth consistency that coats your spoon without being too heavy or runny.
What if I want a lighter version?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter yet still creamy texture. Adding cooked rice or noodles can help keep the soup filling, too.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s quick enough for busy nights and special enough to share with loved ones on a cozy weekend. Give this recipe a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without its comforting, creamy goodness in your recipe collection!
Print
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken. Featuring a blend of sautéed vegetables, tender chicken, and rich cream, this soup offers a velvety texture and satisfying flavors that make for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir thoroughly to coat. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Incorporate Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the soup slightly thickens.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Finish Soup: Add the frozen peas and heavy cream or half-and-half. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through, but do not allow the soup to boil after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter soup, substitute heavy cream with milk or half-and-half.
- Add cooked rice or egg noodles to the soup for extra heartiness.
