Healthy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Using Rotisserie Chicken

The Elevated Educator, MPH, RMA

When the weather turns cold, or you simply crave a bowl of comfort, nothing warms you up like creamy chicken noodle soup. This delightful recipe leverages the convenience of rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store, making it a quick and satisfying meal. Nutritious ingredients come together in a delightful mix of flavors, ensuring that both your taste buds and your body are happy. Let’s explore how to whip up this comforting dish!

A delicious bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup garnished with fresh parsley

Ingredients

To make this healthy creamy chicken noodle soup, you'll need:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 cups)

• 8 oz egg noodles (or whole grain noodles for a healthier choice)

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup carrots, diced (about 2 medium carrots)

• 1 cup celery, diced (around 2 stalks)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream (or a lighter alternative like half-and-half)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

  
  

Gathering these simple ingredients sets you up for a delightful cooking experience!

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onions become translucent. The smell of the veggies cooking will surely get your taste buds excited!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are tender, add in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional minute. This step boosts the flavor, making your soup even more inviting.

Step 3: Incorporate the Broth and Noodles

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, until the noodles are cooked al dente. This is where the magic happens, as the noodles begin to soak up the delicious flavors!

Step 4: Add the Shredded Chicken

After the noodles are ready, it's time to introduce the star of the dish: the shredded rotisserie chicken! Stir it into the pot and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes. This chicken not only adds protein but also makes this soup even heartier.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute it with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Keep in mind that the rotisserie chicken may already be seasoned, so make adjustments carefully.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the creamy chicken noodle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color. This soup pairs perfectly with whole-grain bread, a side salad, or even a light sandwich for a complete meal. You could also add some crusty French bread for dipping.

Nutritional Benefits

This creamy chicken noodle soup not only warms you up but also packs a nutritional punch. The rotisserie chicken offers high-quality protein that helps to keep you full. The vegetables like carrots and celery provide essential vitamins such as Vitamin A and C, which have been shown to support immune function. Using low-sodium broth allows you to enjoy the rich taste without excessive sodium, which is beneficial for heart health.

Fun Fact

Did you know that studies suggest that warm soups can help you feel fuller, thus reducing calorie intake in subsequent meals? Enjoying a bowl of steaming soup could be an effective way to manage hunger and promote healthy eating habits.

Final Thoughts

Making a healthy creamy chicken noodle soup using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic approach to enjoying a comforting meal without spending hours cooking. With these straightforward steps, you'll have a delicious and nutritious bowl ready to warm you up on a chilly day. So next time you grab a rotisserie chicken from your grocery store, remember this recipe and indulge in some homemade goodness. Happy cooking!