Rotisserie Chicken Soup with Coconut, Lime, and Sweet Potatoes
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup is a quick, protein-packed recipe that your whole family will love. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using leftover chicken or turkey, this easy recipe is a flavorful twist on homemade chicken soup.
Perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners, this versatile chowder accommodates a variety of dietary needs—dairy-free, gluten-free, and AIP-compliant—without compromising on taste.
With over 30g of protein per serving, this comforting soup is the ideal way to refuel after a winter hike or a day on the slopes. If you’re a fan of creamy soups with a citrusy kick, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
Why I Love This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup
This recipe has everything I adore in a homemade meal. It’s the perfect mix of comforting flavors, wholesome ingredients, and convenience:
- Comfort Food: There’s nothing like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to soothe the soul in the depths of winter! The creamy texture and rich flavors make this a go-to when I’m craving something cozy.
- Whole Rotisserie Chicken: Using a rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds depth and richness to the soup. It’s the perfect way to transform this store-bought staple into something special.
- Homemade Soup with a Shortcut: While this soup tastes like it simmered all day, the store-bought shortcut of pre-cooked chicken helps keep it quick and easy without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile and Nourishing: Packed with vegetables, protein, and creamy coconut milk, it’s a wholesome meal that can be adapted to fit any lifestyle.
Essential Tools You’ll Need
To make this soup with ease, gather these essential tools:
- Large Dutch Oven: The ideal pot for sautéing, simmering, and cooking the soup in one place. Its even heat distribution ensures perfectly cooked ingredients.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot and for scraping down the sides to get every last drop of flavor.
- Measuring Utensils: Essential for precise measurements, ensuring the right balance of ingredients and flavors.
- Ladle: A must-have for serving the soup neatly into bowls without spills.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables, sweet potatoes, and other ingredients efficiently.
- Potato Masher (Optional): Useful if you want to mash some sweet potatoes in the pot to naturally thicken the soup.
Ingredients For This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb rotisserie chicken, cooked and shredded or diced (about 2 cups, including a mix of white and dark meat for richer flavor; save extra for topping if desired). Substitute with baked tofu, chickpeas, or shredded jackfruit for a plant-based option.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil or coconut oil) for sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- 2 celery stalks, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced.
- 1 large sweet potato (or 2 medium), peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version).
- 1 can (13.5 oz) unsweetened coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free base.
- 1 lime, zested and juiced, for brightness and a pop of flavor.
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to your taste).
- 1/2 tsp black pepper for subtle spice.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky depth).
Optional Thickener (Gluten-Free/AIP Option)
- 2 tbsp cassava flour, cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or all-purpose flour, mixed with 1/4 cup cold water to create a slurry (for a thicker soup).
Topping Suggestions
- Extra shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for a herbal finish.
- Lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
- A dollop of unsweetened coconut yogurt for creaminess.
- Your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
This soup embodies the beauty of flexitarian cooking, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs, pantry staples, and taste preferences. Whether you’re looking to add more plant-based ingredients or stick with traditional flavors, here are some creative swaps and substitutions:
Protein
- Pre-Cooked Chicken: Use store-bought or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken thighs add rich flavor.
- Plant-Based Proteins: Swap the chicken for baked tofu, chickpeas, or shredded jackfruit to create a hearty, protein-packed vegan or vegetarian version.
Grains and Noodles
- Hearty Noodles: Replace sweet potatoes with egg noodles, hearty pasta, or even soba noodles for a satisfying, traditional soup texture.
- Wild Rice: Add cooked wild rice for a nutty, earthy twist that pairs well with the coconut and lime flavors.
Herbs and Citrus
- Fresh Parsley: Swap cilantro for chopped fresh parsley for a milder, more versatile herbal note.
- Lemon Juice: If limes aren’t available, use fresh lemon juice for a different but equally vibrant acidity.
Vegetables
- Large Onion: Use one large onion instead of a medium one to enhance the savory depth of the soup.
- Medium Carrots: Add diced carrots for a touch of natural sweetness and additional texture.
- Corn: Incorporate fresh, frozen, or canned corn for a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Winter Squash: Replace or pair sweet potatoes with cubed winter squash like butternut, acorn, or kabocha for a creamy texture and earthy flavor.
Flavor Boosters
- White Wine: Replace 1/2 cup of broth with dry white wine for a sophisticated flavor enhancement.
- Spices: Add turmeric or curry powder for a warm, aromatic twist.
Creamy Options
- Coconut Milk: Stick with coconut milk for a dairy-free option that enhances the tropical flavors.
- Heavy Cream or Whole Milk: For a classic creamy soup, substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or whole milk.
- Cream Cheese: Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of softened cream cheese for an ultra-rich and velvety texture.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables:
- In a large pot, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and celery, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until it releases its aroma.
Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Broth:
- Add diced sweet potatoes and low-sodium chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and easy to mash.
Thicken for a Creamy Texture (Optional):
- To naturally thicken the soup, mash some of the sweet potatoes in the pot with the back of a spoon or potato masher.
- For added thickness, whisk 2 tablespoons of cassava flour, all-purpose flour, or cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the soup, simmering for 2–3 minutes.
- Want it ultra-creamy? Combine both methods for a rich, hearty consistency.
Boost with Protein:
- Stir in shredded or diced rotisserie chicken, ensuring it’s warmed through, about 5 minutes.
Enhance Flavor with Coconut and Lime:
- Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, and a sprinkle of lime zest for a refreshing, creamy finish.
Season to Your Preference:
- Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. For a smoky depth, include smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder. Adjust to taste.
Serve with Balanced Toppings:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add nutrient-dense toppings like a dollop of coconut yogurt, fresh lime wedges, or a drizzle of chili oil for heat. For added crunch, sprinkle on roasted pepitas or sunflower seeds.
Enjoy:
- Serve warm and savor this hearty, protein-packed, and nutrient-rich soup, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Storage Suggestions
To keep your soup fresh and flavorful, store leftovers properly:
- Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Secret Ingredient: Citrus Zest
Check out this video on How to Zest A Lemon (or another citrus) by Everyday Food.
Did you know, fruit zest is used during cooking in a multitude of ways? Are you planning on using fresh citrus for the juice but not the zest? Zest it anyway and freeze that zest. It is an easy way to give recipes a pop of flavor. Furthermore, freezing the zest in advance makes for easier cooking at a later date.
Freeze in ice cubes filled with water or oil or freeze on a baking sheet and add to a bag or freezer container.
How to use citrus zest
- Stirred into soups
- Tossed into stir-fries
- When making rice or grains
- Zested over cauliflower rice
- Mixed into salad dressing
- As a pop of flavor in baked goods and dessert
Like This Recipe For Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup?
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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Soup with Sweet Potatoes
Equipment
- 1 dutch oven or soup pot with lid
- 1 set of meat shredders or forks
- 1 spoon or rubber spatula for stirring soup
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Small bowl
- 1 set of tongs
- 1 Set of measuring spoons
- ladle
- Cutting board
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 1 lbs cooked, shredded or diced rotisserie chicken (about 2 cups, plus extra for topping if desired)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced (1 to 2 cups)
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 sweet potatoes, diced (2 to 3 cups)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 13.5 oz coconut milk 1 can
- 1 lime, juiced and zested (2 tbsp juice divided)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Cassava Flour Slurry
- 2 tbsp cassava flour
- 2 tbsp water
Toppings
- rotisserie chicken
- lime, quartered
- cilantro or parlsey
- coconut yogurt or Greek Yogurt
- hot sauce
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and celery, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Broth and Sweet Potatoes:
- Add sweet potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender enough to easily mash with the back of a spoon or a potato masher.
Thicken the Soup (Optional):
- For a naturally thicker soup, mash some of the tender sweet potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
- Alternatively, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cassava flour, or cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering soup and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- For an extra creamy texture, you can combine both methods by mashing some sweet potatoes and adding the slurry.
Add Rotisserie Chicken:
- Add the shredded or diced rotisserie chicken to the pot. Stir well to combine and heat through, about 5 minutes.
Stir in Coconut Milk and Lime:
- Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir well to combine.
Season to Taste:
- Add salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve and Add Toppings:
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and add your favorite toppings, such as shredded chicken, coconut yogurt, a squeeze of lime, or a dash of hot sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Hi, I’m Sarah Harper, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about cooking, eating, and sharing all things food! At The Addy Bean, you’ll find a variety of flexitarian recipes designed to inspire and empower you to explore the delicious world of plant-based eating. My mission is to make plant-forward meals approachable, enjoyable, and part of your everyday life!
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