Winter arrived over night and ushered in another busy holiday season. Caring for our family and others can leave us unprepared to cope with menu changes . A warm bowl of healthy soup could be  just what the doctor ordered to help get us through another season.

Knowing we were stretched for time and energy, a  friend stopped by this week with a huge pot of freshly made chicken noodle  soup. It was so good and so simple, I asked for the recipe to share with you.  Beginning with rotisserie chicken and frozen noodles, this dish is easily adapted to individual tastes and dietary needs.

Following the recipe, I will give you some great ideas for the other half of the chicken plus suggestions to add variety to the soup.

Our local store had large rotisserie chickens on sale this week so I purchased several for the freezer. Choose plump, freshly cooked chickens and use or refrigerate right away.

Basic Recipe

½ rotisserie chicken, boned and cubed

16 oz pkg. frozen noodles

1 package frozen mixed vegetables

1 can cream of chicken soup

Add water as needed for extra broth

Add onion flakes, salt, and pepper to taste

Prepare noodles according to package directions. Add additional ingredients and cook slowly until vegetables are soft.

Suggestions: top with grated cheese and oyster crackers; use canned veggies instead of frozen; use dried noodles if preferred; add garlic powder or freshly ground pepper for variety richer taste. The variations are endless with this recipe, a great staple on a cold winter’s day.

Freeze the other half of the chicken if you aren’t going to use it in a couple of days. When ready, heat and serve with a baked potato, salad, and vegetable or fruit for a wholesome meal. Slice leftover chicken for sandwiches. Heat with barbeque sauce and serve with fries for a tasty lunch. Extra broth made from boiling the bones and scraps adds more flavor and nutrition to your soups or casserole dishes.

A personal note: I have found items such as this chicken to be time-savers for me without having to turn to boxed foods or prepared meals. The meat is fresh and can be used in a variety of healthy ways. Let me hear from you; what works for you in your busy kitchen as you care for others?

Hugs,

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