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Italian Chicken Soup

This hearty Italian chicken soup features shredded cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a flavorful broth. It develops a clear, golden appearance with tender vegetables and a comforting, nourishing texture. Perfect as a quick, customizable meal that tastes even better the next day.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality extra virgin
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 carrots carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or leftover
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves bay leaves
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 lemon lemon for zest and juice

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Chopping board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil until it shimmers and begins to lightly smoke.
  2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 8 minutes. They should be soft and slightly translucent.
  3. Toss in shredded cooked chicken, stirring to combine, and let it warm through for about a minute. The mixture will smell savory and inviting.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once bubbling, add thyme and bay leaves, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to deepen in color.
  5. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs if used fresh, and discard.
  6. Zest the lemon into the soup and squeeze in some juice for brightness. Stir gently to combine, giving the broth a fresh, tangy kick.
  7. Serve the soup hot, ladled into bowls. The broth should be clear and golden, with tender vegetables and flavorful shredded chicken, ready to enjoy as a comforting, customizable meal.