There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. As the leaves turn to shades of amber and gold, I find myself drawn to heartwarming dishes, and this Simple Italian Chicken Soup checks all the boxes. Imagine tender pieces of roasted chicken mingling with the rich flavors of sweet roasted garlic and seasonal vegetables like butternut squash and kale, all simmered in a fragrant, herb-infused broth.
The best part? This cozy soup is not just a feast for the senses; it’s incredibly easy to whip up any night of the week. Whether you’re a busy chef looking for a quick comfort meal or someone who wants to break free from the fast-food rut, this soup hits the spot with flavors that warm your soul. Each spoonful is a delightful reminder of the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals, perfect for those quiet nights in or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this nourishing recipe that’s sure to bring your family together!
Why Choose Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights?
There’s something special about Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights that makes it a must-try! Comforting warmth: Each bowl represents the embrace of cozy evenings spent at home. Bursting with flavor: The sweet roasted garlic complements tender chicken and rich, seasonal vegetables, crafting a rich taste profile that both delights and satisfies. Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip it up without hassle. Customizable: Modify ingredients easily to fit dietary needs, whether gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian. Family favorite: It’s a dish everyone will love, whether served on a weekday or at a gathering, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
• Get ready to create a warm, delicious bowl of comfort!
For the Soup
- Skin-on, bone-in split chicken breasts – Provides rich flavor and structure; for quicker prep, you can substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Olive oil (divided) – Adds healthy fat and enhances flavor; while any cooking oil can work, olive oil is best for its depth.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential seasonings for balancing flavors; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Whole heads garlic – Adds depth of flavor; roasting mellows its sharpness and creates a sweet richness.
- Unsalted butter (or olive oil) – Provides richness and helps in cooking aromatics; substituting with olive oil keeps it dairy-free.
- Medium onion (finely diced) – Builds the base flavor of the soup; while shallots can be used, the onion is preferred for its sweetness.
- Carrots (peeled and finely diced) – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color; consider swapping with parsnips for a unique taste.
- Parsnips (peeled and finely diced) – Contributes earthy sweetness and texture; can replace with additional carrots or sweet potatoes.
- Ribs celery (finely diced) – Adds freshness and crunch; you can omit if you prefer a simpler soup.
- Butternut squash (peeled and cubed) – Provides creaminess and a subtle, sweet flavor; sweet potatoes or pumpkin are great substitutes.
- Italian seasoning – Enhances the Italian flavor profile beautifully; try mixing oregano, basil, and thyme if needed.
- Pinch red pepper flakes – Adds warmth and a slight kick; adjust based on your spice preference for a cozy touch.
- Can tomato paste – Deepens the soup’s flavor and adds richness; crushed tomatoes can do in a pinch if needed.
- Chicken stock (low sodium) – Forms the savory soup base; swap with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Parmesan rind (optional) – Infuses additional flavor into the broth; omit it for a dairy-free alternative or switch to a dairy-free cheese.
- Shelf-stable gnocchi (optional) – Adds heartiness to the soup; replace with cooked brown rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Chopped kale (ribs removed) – Adds nutrition and color; spinach or Swiss chard are perfect substitutes if desired.
- Fresh basil leaves (julienned) – Provides a burst of freshness and aroma; dried basil can work as a substitute (use less).
- Chopped flat-leaf parsley – Enhances flavor and freshness; omit it if it’s not available, though it adds a lovely touch.
- Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (for serving) – Complements the soup with a savory finish; skip for a dairy-free rendition.
This Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights is a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire, especially on those cooler evenings when you crave comfort. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a foil-lined baking sheet. Ensure you have enough space for your chicken and garlic, making it easier to handle later.
Roast Chicken and Garlic:
Place the chicken on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, and place alongside the chicken. Roast for 45–50 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through, and the garlic is beautifully soft.Prep Ingredients:
Allow the roasted chicken and garlic to cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and squeeze the roasted garlic from its skins, mashing it into a paste to flavor the soup.Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it turns translucent. Stir in your roasted garlic paste and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.Cook Vegetables:
Add the diced carrots, parsnips, celery, and butternut squash to the pot. Season with Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; stir everything together, letting the vegetables soak up those wonderful flavors.Simmer Soup:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock and add the Parmesan rind if you’re using it. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, covering the pot and allowing it to cook for 20–25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.Final Touches:
Remove the Parmesan rind from the pot, and stir in the chopped kale, cooking until just wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Mix in the shredded chicken, fresh basil, and parsley, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, add cooked gnocchi to the bottom of each bowl before pouring the soup over. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan for a rich finishing touch.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a flavorful enhancement.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
• Roasting Garlic: Roasting mellows the garlic’s sharpness, resulting in a sweeter, more subtle flavor that enhances your Simple Italian Chicken Soup.
• Keep Gnocchi Separate: To prevent your gnocchi from absorbing too much broth, add it to the bowl right before serving for a perfect texture.
• Storage Advice: This soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extended freshness, freeze it for up to 3 months and add gnocchi fresh when serving.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak seasoning levels. Start with less salt and pepper, then gradually adjust to achieve your preferred flavor profile.
• Customization Options: Don’t hesitate to modify ingredients! Whether you need a gluten-free or vegetarian Simple Italian Chicken Soup, substitutions can easily tailor this recipe to your needs.
What to Serve with Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights?
Cozy evenings call for delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience alongside a comforting bowl of soup.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the hearty texture complements the soup’s rich flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
Garlic Toast: The buttery, garlicky goodness enhances the savory notes of the soup, making each bite an indulgent treat.
Simple Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the warmth of the soup with bright, crisp flavors.
Cheesy Gnocchi Bake: If you’re in the mood for a heartier side, a baked gnocchi with cheese offers a creamy, comforting texture that mirrors the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned with olive oil and herbs bring additional layers of flavor while celebrating the autumn harvest.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil: For an extra touch, serve a small dish of herb-infused olive oil for drizzling over your soup, enhancing the richness beautifully.
Italian Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine pairs beautifully, balancing the savory notes and adding a touch of warmth to your meal.
Chocolate Dessert: Finish your meal with a light chocolate dessert, such as mousse or dark chocolate squares, to satisfy your sweet tooth without overpowering the comforting dinner.
Variations & Substitutions for Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! The flavor and texture can be easily adjusted to enhance your cozy chicken soup experience.
- Dairy-Free: Omit butter and parmesan to enjoy a deliciously creamy broth without dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out gnocchi for cooked brown rice or quinoa to keep it gluten-free while maintaining heartiness.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with white beans and use vegetable stock, creating a hearty yet meatless alternative without losing flavor.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Add more seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color, making each bowl even more satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a diced jalapeño or an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for those who love a warm, spicy finish in their soup.
- Hearty Option: For a more filling meal, toss in some cooked lentils or chickpeas to boost protein, creating a hearty and nutritious feast.
- Quick Prep: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of roasting your own for a quicker dinner prep while still savoring cozy flavors.
- Flavor Twist: Try adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice during simmering for an extra burst of flavor that brightens the soup.
Embrace these variations and make the Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights your personal creation that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings!
How to Store and Freeze Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days; it will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld and deepen.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Ensure the container is freezer-safe, allowing for some expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If using frozen soup, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Gnocchi Tip: If adding gnocchi, cook it fresh rather than freezing with the soup to maintain the best texture in your Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights.
Make Ahead Options
These cozy Italian chicken soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the chopped vegetables (carrots, parsnips, celery, and butternut squash) up to 3 days in advance—just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Similarly, you can roast the chicken and garlic ahead of time, letting them cool before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy the meal, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepped veggies, and follow through with the simmering and finishing touches to make your Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights just as delicious and comforting!
Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for my soup?
Absolutely! For peak flavor, select vibrant, firm vegetables without blemishes or soft spots. Look for carrots and parsnips that are plump and crisp, and choose butternut squash with a smooth, matte skin. Seasonal vegetables should be in their prime; if they’ve become overripe, they may have dark spots or an off odor.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Simple Italian Chicken Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing. If you want to make ahead for later, freezing is a great option—you can preserve it for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Simple Italian Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving enough space for expansion as it freezes. For best results, freeze portions individually. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove—avoid microwaving to maintain texture!
What should I do if the soup is too salty?
If your soup ends up too salty, don’t fret! You can add a few diced potatoes or a small amount of additional chicken stock to dilute the saltiness. Let it simmer for a bit longer to combine the flavors. Taste frequently until you achieve the desired flavor balance.
Is this soup suitable for special dietary needs?
Very! You can easily tailor this Simple Italian Chicken Soup to fit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, swap in cooked brown rice or quinoa instead of gnocchi. For a vegetarian version, substitute shredded rotisserie chicken with white beans and use vegetable stock. And if you’re avoiding dairy, simply skip the butter and omit the parmesan!
How do I keep the gnocchi from getting mushy?
The more the merrier! To keep gnocchi from becoming mushy, I recommend cooking it separately and adding it to the soup just before serving. This maintains a perfect texture, ensuring that your Simple Italian Chicken Soup for Cozy Nights is hearty and delightful!
Cozy Nights Made Easy: Simple Italian Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Place the chicken on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, and place alongside the chicken. Roast for 45–50 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Allow the roasted chicken and garlic to cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mash the roasted garlic into a paste.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the roasted garlic paste and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds.
- Add the diced carrots, parsnip, celery, and butternut squash to the pot. Season with Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; stir to combine.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the chicken stock and add the Parmesan rind if using. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the Parmesan rind from the pot, stir in the chopped kale, and cook until wilted. Mix in the shredded chicken, fresh basil, and parsley, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add cooked gnocchi if desired before pouring the soup over. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan.
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