Craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's also healthy and easy to make? Look no further! This Italian Chicken Soup recipe is a perfect blend of simple ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's one of those easy recipes that's both satisfying and incredibly versatile – perfect for a quick dinner idea or a more leisurely homemade cooking experience. Get ready to experience the magic of this classic dish, elevated with fresh herbs and a touch of Italian flair.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks. Here's what you'll need to create this delicious and healthy meal:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Cooking Process
This Italian Chicken Soup recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your soup.
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Add the Broth and Aromatics: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and Season: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add Chicken and Pasta: Stir in the shredded chicken and pasta. Continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, or according to package directions.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade Italian Chicken Soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
- Meal prep friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Variations: Tailor It to Your Taste
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to explore:
- Lemon Italian Chicken Soup: Add the juice and zest of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Italian Chicken and White Bean Soup: Stir in a can of cannellini beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added protein and texture.
- Spicy Italian Chicken Soup: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
This delicious and healthy Italian Chicken Soup is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It’s a great option for a quick dinner idea, a comforting homemade meal, or a healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!