Healing Chicken Soup

Healing Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and nourishes the body. This comforting Italian soup features tiny pastina pasta, tender chicken, and an array of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or when you need a little extra love during cold days, this Healing Chicken Soup stands out with its rich flavors and nutritional benefits.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nourishing Comfort: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and chicken, this soup is perfect for recovery or just when you need a warm meal.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!
• Kid-Friendly: The tiny pastina pasta makes this soup appealing to kids, ensuring they get their nutrients without fuss.
• Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Healing Chicken Soup, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking soups; it retains heat well and evenly cooks your ingredients.
• Blender: Helps achieve a smooth texture for your soup by pureeing the broth and vegetables.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

A comforting Italian soup combining tiny pastina pasta with tender chicken and vegetables in a smooth, flavorful broth.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion, diced small
• 1 large shallot, finely chopped
• 4 stalks celery, diced small
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, diced small
• 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 pound carrots, diced small
• 1 parmesan rind (optional)
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt

For the Pasta

• ⅓ cup uncooked pastina

For the Chicken

• 2½-3 cups rotisserie chicken

For Serving

• Grated Parmesan for serving
• Fresh rosemary and/or thyme leaves

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Healing Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil and butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook onion, shallot, celery, and yellow bell pepper for 4-5 minutes until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer Broth

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with diced carrots, parmesan rind (if using), and kosher salt. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 20-25 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Remove 2 cups of cooked vegetables from the pot. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the remaining soup until smooth. Return the reserved vegetables back into the pot.

Step 4: Cook Pastina

Add uncooked pastina to the soup. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and cover. Let it rest for about 20 minutes off heat.

Step 5: Serve

Adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Garnish each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy your delicious Healing Chicken Soup!

How to Serve Healing Chicken Soup

Serving Healing Chicken Soup can enhance its comforting qualities. This soup is perfect for sharing, whether at a family gathering or on a cozy night in. Here are some delightful ways to serve it.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs on top such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.

With Grated Parmesan

• Add grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. The cheese melts slightly into the warm soup, adding a rich, savory element.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread or rolls for dipping. This adds texture and makes the meal more satisfying.

In Individual Bowls

• Dish out into individual bowls for a more intimate dining experience. Consider garnishing each bowl with a sprinkle of black pepper.

With Lemon Wedges

• Offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.

As a Starter

• Use it as a starter for your meal. A small cup of Healing Chicken Soup can be a lovely way to begin any dinner.

How to Perfect Healing Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Healing Chicken Soup requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an even more delicious outcome.

• Choose quality broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and enhance flavor without overpowering the dish.

• Sauté vegetables properly: Cook onions, shallots, celery, and peppers until they are translucent for maximum sweetness and depth.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and vegetables make a big difference in taste compared to dried or pre-packaged options.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the salt and pepper gradually to achieve your desired flavor.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the soup to sit covered for about 20 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Store leftovers correctly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Healing Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with Healing Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this comforting soup perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread pairs well with soup’s brothiness.
2. Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness that balances the richness of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad – The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers bright flavors that enhance your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies make for an earthy side that complements the chicken soup beautifully.
5. Cheesy Biscuit Muffins – These fluffy muffins provide a cheesy delight that’s perfect for dipping into your soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and ground meat offer heartiness that pairs well with lighter soups.
7. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables offers variety and flavors that excite the palate.
8. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs and lemon brings in additional nutrition while being light enough not to overshadow the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Healing Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using regular broth: Always opt for low-sodium chicken broth. Regular broth can lead to an overly salty soup that masks the fresh flavors of the vegetables.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Vegetables should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them during simmering to ensure they maintain some texture.

• Skipping the puree step: Pureeing part of the soup gives it a smooth texture, making it more comforting. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for achieving that creamy broth.

• Not seasoning properly: Taste your soup before serving and adjust with salt or herbs as needed. Seasoning enhances flavors and makes your soup truly healing.

• Ignoring herb freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate your soup’s flavor. If using dried herbs, remember that they are more potent, so use them sparingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Healing Chicken Soup in an airtight container.
• Store for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Healing Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers for expansion as the soup freezes.

Reheating Healing Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot throughout.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Healing Chicken Soup special?

Healing Chicken Soup is packed with nutrients from chicken and vegetables. It’s designed to warm both body and soul, especially when you’re under the weather.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Healing Chicken Soup?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well if you’re short on time. Just add them during the cooking process without thawing first; this helps retain their nutrients.

How do I customize Healing Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or grains! Spinach or kale can add nutrition, while quinoa or rice can make it heartier.

Is there a vegetarian version of Healing Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How does this recipe compare to traditional Italian soups?

This recipe combines classic Italian flavors with modern comfort food elements, making it both familiar and innovative while still nurturing like traditional recipes from Nonna’s kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Healing Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients make it perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to moments when you need a little comfort. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs to make it uniquely yours!