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Italian Chicken Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor
About This Recipe
Italian Chicken Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, pasta, and aromatic herbs in a flavorful broth. This traditional soup combines rustic Italian flavors with nourishing comfort, making it the perfect meal for cool evenings, busy weeknights, or when you simply want a bowl of wholesome goodness. The recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted with seasonal vegetables or different types of pasta, allowing you to enjoy it year-round. It is a true family-friendly favorite that reflects the charm of home-style Italian cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Chicken Soup is not just another soup—it’s a complete meal in one bowl. The broth is infused with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, while the chicken provides satisfying protein. The addition of pasta gives it a hearty texture that makes it filling without being heavy. It’s a dish that combines comfort with nutrition, and since it’s made with simple ingredients, it’s budget-friendly as well. Whether served at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or prepared in advance for weekly meal prep, this soup is both practical and delicious.Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts or thighs (boneless and skinless)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 ½ cups small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or elbow)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and simmer gently until cooked through, about 20 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a separate pan, heat olive oil. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the pot of chicken broth. Add diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Chicken
Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty Italian bread.
Tips for the Best Italian Chicken Soup
Choose dark meat for richer flavor: While chicken breasts work well, thighs add a deeper flavor and stay tender in the broth.
Use homemade broth if possible: It elevates the taste and makes the soup more authentic.
Cook pasta separately for leftovers: If you plan on storing the soup, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to avoid sogginess.
Customize with vegetables: Zucchini, spinach, or kale can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Chicken Soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Serve it alongside:
- Warm, crusty garlic bread
- A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for added nutrition
- Grissini (Italian breadsticks) for a traditional touch
For a cozy family dinner, consider setting the table with bowls of soup, a large platter of bread, and a salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
Variations
Tuscan-Style Chicken Soup: Add cannellini beans and a handful of kale for a hearty Tuscan twist.
Spicy Version: Stir in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta or rice to suit dietary needs.
Cheese Lovers’ Upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese before serving for extra richness.