Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender shredded chicken, flavorful vegetables, and pasta in a savory broth, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a favorite among soup lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash chicken breasts and place them in a large pot with water. Bring to a boil.
- Remove any foam that forms on the surface.
- Add salt, pepper, chopped onion, diced celery, and diced carrots. Cook for 2 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred the meat.
- Add frozen spinach and cooked pasta (acini de pepe) to the broth.
- Return the shredded chicken and canned mashed tomatoes to the pot.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Add more water if necessary to maintain desired broth level.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sear the chicken breasts before boiling. You can substitute fresh spinach for frozen if available, and use small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini instead of acini de pepe. Consider adding garlic or crushed red pepper for extra depth. If you prefer a heartier soup, include diced potatoes or beans. This recipe is a comforting alternative to Mom's Italian Chicken Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Wedding Soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan adds a nice touch when serving. It pairs beautifully with Angel Hair Pasta With Goat Cheese And Broccoli for a delightful dinner experience. For added freshness, consider a side of lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the soup to prevent it from becoming too thick, and warm it on the stove over medium heat. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Wedding Soup contains roughly 311 calories, with 22g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (264% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (106% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats instead of chicken for this soup?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if using raw meat, to ensure it's fully cooked before serving.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add more vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture. You can also include plant-based meatballs for added protein.
Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little extra broth or water to restore its original consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).