Craving that comforting, flavorful Chicken Harvest Soup you love from O'Charley's? Forget takeout! This recipe brings the restaurant's deliciousness right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, and packed with the fresh flavors of fall. Get ready to enjoy a homemade bowl of warmth and deliciousness – no reservations required!
Ingredients: A Bountiful Harvest in Your Bowl
This recipe provides generous servings of this hearty and healthy soup. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred for better control over saltiness)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!)
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Soup Perfection
This recipe is designed for ease and speed, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
-
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. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
-
Add the Mushrooms and Herbs: Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are starting to brown slightly.
-
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Add Noodles and Chicken: Add the egg noodles and shredded chicken to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through and tender.
-
Incorporate Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and, if using, the heavy cream. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Do not boil after adding the cream.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this homemade Chicken Harvest Soup!
Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, butternut squash, or green beans.
- Use different noodles: Try different pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 25-30 grams
- Fat: Around 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 25-30 grams
This easy and delicious O'Charley's inspired Chicken Harvest Soup is a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. It’s a great quick dinner idea and a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. Enjoy!