Mom'S Italian Chicken Soup
Mom's Italian Chicken Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, flavorful broth, and pasta. Perfect for chilly days or family dinners, it combines simple ingredients with classic Italian flavors to create a satisfying, nourishing meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slowly boil the whole stewing chicken until it is ready to fall off the bone. Remove the chicken and set aside to cool.
- Add water and 3 to 4 chicken bouillon cubes to make approximately 6 cups of broth.
- Stir into the broth, 3 tablespoons of soup greens, the small can of tomato sauce, and 1/2 pound of spaghetti noodles broken into thirds.
- Cook until the noodles are tender.
- Break apart the cooked chicken and add it to the soup to warm through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or basil while boiling the chicken. If you don't have soup greens, substitute with diced carrots, celery, and onions. For a quicker version, use rotisserie chicken instead of stewing chicken. Adjust the bouillon cubes based on your salt preference, especially if using store-bought stock. This soup can also be enhanced with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Vegetable Lasagne or a simple caprese salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water if the broth has thickened. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Italian Chicken Soup contains roughly 13 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 types of pasta in this soup?
Yes, you can definitely use other types of pasta. Small shapes like ditalini or even whole wheat pasta work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as some may require longer or shorter cooking times than spaghetti.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon cubes?
If you prefer a fresher taste, you can substitute chicken bouillon cubes with homemade chicken stock or broth. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works just as well. Be mindful of the salt content when using pre-made broths, as they can vary significantly.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes while cooking the broth or toss in some diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce when serving can elevate the warmth without overpowering the dish.
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).