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Italian-Inspired Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup combines tender shredded chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a flavorful broth, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon. The dish is built in layers, starting with sautéed vegetables and culminating in a fresh, zesty finish, resulting in a clear, hearty, and slightly thickened soup with vibrant flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or cooked chicken
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 medium carrots chopped
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably good quality or homemade
  • 1 cup pasta or rice small shapes like orzo or tiny pasta, optional
  • 1 lemon lemon juiced for brightness
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it shimmers and the oil begins to ripple.
  2. Add diced onion, chopped carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Stir frequently and cook until the vegetables soften, become fragrant, and the onions turn translucent—about 8 minutes. You'll notice the aroma filling the kitchen and the vegetables turning slightly golden around the edges.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant. The garlic will release a rich aroma, and you'll see it turn a light golden color.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover loosely and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become fully tender.
  5. Add the shredded cooked chicken and pasta or rice if using. Stir well, then cook uncovered until the pasta or rice is tender—about 10 minutes for pasta or 15 minutes for rice. The broth should thicken slightly and become rich with flavors.
  6. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a splash more broth; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce slightly. The vegetables should be tender, and the broth flavorful.
  7. Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup and stir to brighten the flavors. The citrus adds a lively contrast to the savory broth.
  8. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes off the heat — this allows the flavors to settle and meld beautifully.
  9. Give the soup a final stir, then ladle into bowls. The broth should be clear with tender vegetables, shredded chicken, and a bright, citrusy finish. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, rustic flavors.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of good quality olive oil just before serving. Feel free to customize with herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.