What's the best way to ensure the vegetables are cooked perfectly in the soup?

Cooking the vegetables over medium heat in olive oil allows them to simmer gently, ensuring they become tender without losing their texture, as described in the recipe card below.

Can I use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor?

Yes, substituting water with chicken broth, especially homemade chicken stock, can enhance the overall flavor of the soup. You can also use bone broth if preferred.

What type of pot is recommended for making this soup?

A large soup pot or Dutch oven is ideal for accommodating the volume of ingredients and allowing for even cooking.

How do I ensure the Orzo pasta is cooked perfectly?

Cooking the Orzo separately and adding it to the soup when serving helps maintain the pasta's al dente texture. I do not recommend simmering the noodles in the soup for any length of time, as this will result in overcooked pasta. Instead, portion the pasta out with the soup.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of leftover roast chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked chicken breasts, but using leftover roast chicken with its jelly adds a unique and flavorful element to the soup, and helps texture the broth.

Are there alternative herbs I can use to garnish the soup?

Freshly chopped parsley or other fresh herbs can be added before serving for a burst of freshness and color.

Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot for a quicker preparation?

While the recipe traditionally simmers on the stove, adapting it for an Instant Pot is a great way to expedite the cooking process. So, yes, feel free to adapt this recipe to your instant pot.

What's the difference between this soup and classic chicken noodle soup?

This recipe features Orzo pasta instead of traditional noodles, giving the soup a unique twist while maintaining the comforting elements of a classic chicken noodle soup.

Is using a whole chicken necessary for making homemade chicken stock?

Using a whole chicken or chicken carcass when making homemade stock provides a richer and more flavorful base for the soup.

Can I customize the soup with additional ingredients?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or other types of meat.

Leftover Chicken Noodle Soup (Easy 30-Minute Recipe)

Ingredients

Scale

4 - 5 cups of leftover roast chicken - with the jelly, shredded
2 tomatoes, diced
3 stalks celery, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 sweet onions, sliced
6 - 8 garlic cloves
2 bay leaves
1 1/2 tsps. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
2 tsp. dried oregano
1 inch piece of Romano or Parmesan cheese, chopped
2 tsps. Vegeta (all-purpose seasoning)
8 cups of water
2 tbs. olive oil
1 lb. of Orzo

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Instructions

In a large soup pot place the tomatoes, celery, carrots, onions, garlic cloves and olive oil.
Let the veggies simmer until the onions are translucent.
Add the seasonings and bay leaves.
Add the shredded left-over chicken, be careful to check for bones, and any jelly that may have formed around the chicken after refrigerating. This adds much flavor to the soup.
Add the water and Vegeta seasoning. If you do not have Vegeta you may use chicken bouillon. Taste for seasoning.
Add the Romano or Parmesan cheese pieces.
Let the soup simmer on a gentle heat for at least 45 – 50 minutes.
Prepare the pasta as directed.
Serve with extra grated Romano or Parmesan cheese and fresh ground black pepper.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American