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Simple Italian Chicken Soup

This comforting Italian chicken soup is made by simmering shredded cooked chicken with carrots, celery, and herbs in a flavorful broth, resulting in a clear, golden liquid filled with tender vegetables and hearty protein. The final dish boasts a warm, nourishing texture and aromatic herbal notes, perfect for cozy days or when you need a quick, wholesome meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality extra virgin
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 large carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or leftover
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
  • to taste Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 1 lemon juice brightens the soup

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering and fragrant, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender and aromatic, about 8 minutes, with a gentle sizzle and occasional stirring.
  2. Add shredded cooked chicken to the pot and stir for about a minute, allowing the flavors to mingle and the chicken to warm through.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You should hear a soft bubbling as it heats up, filling the kitchen with savory aromas.
  4. Add fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves to the pot. Lower the heat and let everything simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the broth to develop a clear, golden hue.
  5. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs to keep the broth clean and aromatic.
  6. Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup to add a bright, tangy note. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the flavors evenly.
  7. Ladle the hot, clear soup into bowls, making sure each serving is filled with tender vegetables and shredded chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of this simple, rustic dish.

Notes

Feel free to customize with other vegetables or herbs you have on hand. This soup tastes even better the next day, so make extra if desired.