Italian chicken soup recipe

This isn’t just any chicken soup. It’s a recipe I’ve tinkered with for years, inspired by the rustic, soulful flavors of Italy. I love how a simple combination of ingredients can transform into something that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s a dish that comforts yet surprises, especially when you add that unexpected squeeze of lemon at the end.

Why I Keep Coming Back to This Soup

It’s a quick fix for busy days, yet always feels special enough to sit with longer. The aroma alone—garlic, herbs, and simmering chicken—is enough to lift the mood. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, making it a go-to when I want comfort without fuss.

Breaking Down the Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs, shredded: Lean protein that adds heartiness; use rotisserie or cooked chicken for speed.
• Onion, diced: Sweetens as it cooks, forming a savory base—skip if in a rush, but it’s missed.
• Carrots, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and color; opt for thinner slices for quicker cooking.
• Celery, diced: Gives a fresh, slightly peppery note—don’t skip, it balances richness.
• Chicken broth: The soup’s backbone; go for a good quality or homemade for depth.
• Pasta or rice (optional): Turns it into a more filling meal; choose small shapes that cook quickly.
• Lemon, juiced: Brightens everything; zest adds a punch if you want more citrus.

Tools of the Trade for a Seamless Soup

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: For even heat distribution and to hold enough broth.
• Chef’s knife: Chopping vegetables and chicken efficiently.
• Wooden spoon: Stirring without scratching your pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate ingredient addition.
• Ladle: Serving and testing the broth.

Step-by-Step to a Soulful Bowl of Chicken Soup

Step 1: Start by gathering your ingredients and prepping everything before you turn on the stove; it makes the process smoother.

Step 2: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat (around 160°C/320°F).

Step 3: Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they soften and the kitchen fills with a sweet, earthy aroma—about 8 minutes.

Step 4: Toss in your shredded cooked chicken and garlic. Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer—around 85°C/185°F—cover loosely.

Step 6: Add pasta or rice if using, and cook until tender, about 10 minutes for pasta or 15 for rice.

Step 7: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. If it’s too thick, splash in a bit more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered to thicken.

Step 8: Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Step 9: Let the soup rest for 5 minutes off heat before serving. It helps meld flavors and cools it to a perfect temperature.

Step 10: The soup is done when the pasta is al dente, the vegetables are tender, and the broth is flavorful and slightly thickened.

Cooking Checkpoints and Tips

• Vegetables should be tender but not mushy, with a slight bite.
• Broth should be clear and flavorful, not greasy or overly salty.
• Pasta or rice should be cooked through, not overdone or undercooked.
• The soup should have a balanced acidity—test with lemon and adjust as needed.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• Overcooking the pasta, making it mushy.? Add more broth if the soup is too thick or starchy.
• Adding too much salt at once—dilute with more broth or water.? Reduce heat or remove from heat if vegetables are overcooked and falling apart.
• Not tasting as you go, leading to bland or overly sour soup.? Stir in lemon juice gradually to avoid overpowering the broth.
• Leaving the soup uncovered for too long, causing it to reduce too much.? Cook the chicken separately if it’s not already shredded for better texture.

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting ritual that brings a little warmth to busy days. It’s forgiving enough to adapt to what’s in your fridge, and the bright lemon lifts it from hearty to lively. Keep it simple, tweak as needed, and enjoy the quiet satisfaction of homemade comfort. Nothing beats the smell of simmering chicken and herbs filling the house.