When it comes to transforming leftovers into a satisfying meal, this Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a winner. It’s the perfect way to make the most of that rotisserie chicken sitting in your fridge, bones and all. This soup is packed with hearty vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a savory broth that will warm you from the inside out. Easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful, it’s an excellent option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 leftover rotisserie chicken (bones and skin included)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 4 to 5 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 to 8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Stock: Begin by removing any large pieces of meat from the rotisserie chicken and set them aside for later. Place the remaining chicken carcass, including bones and skin, into a large pot. Cover with 6 to 8 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the bones are fully submerged.
- Simmer the Stock: Bring the broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 to 45 minutes. This will allow the flavors from the bones and skin to infuse the broth, creating a rich, flavorful base for your soup.
- Strain the Broth: After simmering, carefully remove the chicken carcass from the pot. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or large bowl to remove any small bones or skin. Discard the bones and skin, and return the strained broth to the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a separate large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the strained broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Let the soup simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the carrots and celery are tender.
- Add the Chicken and Seasonings: Shred the reserved chicken meat into bite-sized pieces and add it to the soup. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Conclusion:
This Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a testament to the magic of making something delicious out of what you already have on hand. The depth of flavor from the homemade broth, combined with tender vegetables and succulent chicken, makes this soup a standout dish. Not only is it an excellent way to use up leftovers, but it’s also a nourishing meal that will comfort and satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings!