Description

A comforting and restorative Italian-inspired soup featuring tender chicken, small pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a bright lemon finish. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra nourishment.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup small pasta, such as ditalini, orzo, or small shells
Juice of 1/2 to 1 lemon (to taste)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the dried oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes.
5. Stir in the small pasta. Increase heat to medium and cook according to package directions until al dente.
6. Stir in lemon juice, starting with half a lemon. Taste and add more if desired.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if using.

Notes

Allow soup to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Can be frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid if needed.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: Approx. 350
Sugar: Approx. 5g
Sodium: Approx. 800mg (using low-sodium broth)
Fat: Approx. 10g
Carbohydrates: Approx. 35g
Fiber: Approx. 3g
Protein: Approx. 25g