Italian Chicken Soup is the epitome of comfort food, known for its hearty ingredients and warming effect on a chilly day. It’s a soup that features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and pasta, all simmered in a savory broth. This dish not only warms the body but also the soul, bringing a sense of comfort and contentment with each spoonful. Here’s how you can create this Italian delight in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

The key ingredients you’ll need for Italian Chicken Soup are:

1. Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. This provides a rich source of protein.
2. Vegetables: 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, and 1 large onion. These form the classic soup base known as mirepoix.
3. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for a punch of flavor.
4. Canned Tomatoes: One 15-ounce can, diced. These add a lovely tang and color.
5. Chicken Broth: 6 cups, for a flavorful liquid base.
6. Small Pasta: 1 cup, such as ditalini or orzo.
7. Cannellini Beans: One 15-ounce can, drained and rinsed. These add a lovely creaminess and extra protein.
8. Spinach: 2 cups, for a healthy green addition.
9. Herbs & Spices: 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for garnish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare a heartwarming bowl of Italian Chicken Soup:

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if necessary, then add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Bring the soup to a boil.
4. Add Pasta and Beans: Once boiling, add the pasta and cannellini beans. Cook until the pasta is al dente, according to the package instructions.
5. Add Chicken and Spinach: Return the chicken to the pot and add the spinach. Cook for a few more minutes, until the spinach has wilted and the chicken is heated through.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!

Italian Chicken Soup is a delightful medley of flavors, textures, and colors. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adjusted based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Substitute kale for spinach, add in some zucchini or peas, or try it with turkey instead of chicken. This soup is also a great make-ahead meal, as the flavors continue to meld and improve over time. Whipping up a pot of this Italian comfort food is a simple yet satisfying culinary endeavor. Whether it’s a cold winter’s day, or you’re just in need of some comforting sustenance, a bowl of Italian Chicken Soup is sure to hit the spot.