This Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a quick and flavorful option for busy weeknights. With a few pantry staples, fresh vegetables, and your favorite salsa, you can create a hearty and customizable soup in under an hour. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and can be tailored to your spice preferences.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil
- 1 yellow onion, peeled and diced
- 2 bell peppers, trimmed, seeded, and diced
- 5 scallions, minced (white and green parts separated)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Cayenne powder (optional, to taste)
- 1 cup 7 grains mix (or brown rice, wild rice, or white rice; adjust cooking time as needed)
- 16-ounce jar of habanero salsa (or salsa of choice)
- 1 rotisserie chicken (meat picked from the carcass and roughly chopped)
- 4–5 cups water or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes:
- Minced cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Grated cheese or sour cream (optional)

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and the white parts of the scallions. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
Bloom the Spices
Add chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using) to the pot. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the grains or rice to coat.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the salsa and add the rotisserie chicken. Add 4 cups of water or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–50 minutes until the grains or rice are tender. Add the remaining cup of water if needed to maintain consistency.
Prepare Garnishes
While the soup simmers, prepare toppings such as minced cilantro, lime wedges, grated cheese, or sour cream.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the green parts of the scallions, cilantro, and your favorite toppings. Serve with a lime wedge for an added zing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 578 kcal
Carbohydrates: 41 g
Protein: 78 g
Fat: 13 g
Sodium: 894 mg
Fiber: 6 g
Vitamin C: 81 mg

This soup is a flavorful, versatile, and satisfying meal that can be customized with additional ingredients like beans or roasted vegetables for a unique twist!

The Appeal of Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is a versatile and convenient ingredient that serves as the heart of this recipe. Pre-cooked and seasoned to perfection, it eliminates the need for lengthy preparation while still providing rich and savory flavors. By shredding or chopping the meat, you’re left with tender, juicy pieces that seamlessly blend into the soup. Not only does it save time, but it also reduces food waste by making full use of the chicken. For those who prefer to control their ingredients, homemade roasted chicken can be a fantastic substitute.

Aromatic Base and Spices

The depth of flavor in this Rotisserie Chicken Soup begins with its aromatic base of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and scallions. These ingredients form the foundation of the soup, providing a mix of sweetness and earthiness. The addition of chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and optional cayenne brings a smoky, spicy kick that elevates the dish. Blooming the spices in oil before adding liquids intensifies their flavors, ensuring every spoonful is packed with warmth and complexity.

The Role of Salsa in the Soup

Using salsa as a key ingredient is a clever way to infuse the soup with vibrant, bold flavors. A jar of habanero salsa (or your preferred variety) acts as a shortcut to achieving a well-rounded taste. The acidity from the tomatoes, the heat from the peppers, and the combination of spices in the salsa complement the chicken and grains beautifully. Opt for a mild salsa for a family-friendly version, or choose a spicier one for a fiery kick. For those who love experimenting, homemade salsa can add a personalized touch.

Grains and Texture

The inclusion of grains, such as a 7-grain mix, brown rice, or wild rice, transforms this soup into a filling and satisfying meal. These grains not only provide texture but also add a nutty, wholesome flavor that pairs well with the robust spices and chicken. Adjusting the cooking time ensures that the grains are perfectly tender, while their starches naturally thicken the soup, giving it a hearty consistency. For a lighter option, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used as substitutes.

Customizing the Soup

One of the best aspects of Rotisserie Chicken Soup is its adaptability. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add Beans: Black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans can increase the protein and fiber content while adding a creamy texture.
Incorporate Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes bring a caramelized sweetness that balances the spicy elements.
Enhance with Herbs: Fresh cilantro, parsley, or even thyme can add an aromatic freshness to the final dish.
Adjust the Heat: Use milder spices and salsas for a subtle flavor or amp up the cayenne and chili powder for a bolder experience.
Top It Off: Garnishes like grated cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or tortilla strips add layers of flavor and texture.

Health Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

Protein-Packed: With the rotisserie chicken as the star, this soup delivers a high dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Rich in Vitamins: The inclusion of bell peppers and salsa contributes vitamins A and C, supporting immunity and skin health.
High Fiber: Grains and vegetables provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Low in Fat: By using lean chicken and controlling the amount of oil, the soup remains a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable for Dietary Needs: The recipe can easily be adjusted to fit low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets.

Serving Suggestions

Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy addition.
Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the soup’s bold flavors.
Rice or Noodles: For an even heartier meal, serve the soup over steamed rice or mix in some cooked noodles.

Why This Soup is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

The combination of convenience and flavor makes this Rotisserie Chicken Soup an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. By using pre-cooked chicken and pantry staples, you can significantly reduce preparation time. The one-pot nature of the recipe simplifies cleanup, allowing you to focus on enjoying the meal with your family. Its quick cooking time ensures that you can have a wholesome, homemade meal on the table even after a long day.

Conclusion

Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and highly customizable dish that deserves a place in your weeknight rotation. With its robust spices, tender chicken, and nutrient-packed grains and vegetables, it’s a comforting meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul. The use of salsa as a base adds a unique twist, making it stand out from traditional chicken soups. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, loaded with garnishes or kept simple, this soup adapts to your preferences and dietary needs. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal that will quickly become a household favorite. With its quick preparation and rich flavors, Rotisserie Chicken Soup is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.

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