Introduction to Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe
When the temperature drops, nothing beats the cozy embrace of homemade chicken soup. It's that warm hug you crave after a long day; plus, it fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that beckon you to the table. This Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe is designed to replicate the beloved Italian original, making it perfect for a chilly evening or whenever you need a comforting meal.
Making this scrumptious soup doesn’t require a chef’s expertise—just your willingness to get a bit hands-on in the kitchen. You’ll be delighted to know that it’s made from scratch, featuring tender chunks of chicken, abundant fresh veggies, and delightful ditalini pasta that creates a symphony of flavor in every bowl.
Not only is this soup nourishing and satisfying, but it can also be a great way to utilize leftover chicken or fresh ingredients lingering in your fridge. Benefits abound; homemade soups are packed with nutrients and allow you to control the ingredients, making it an excellent option for a health-conscious meal. If you're interested in the nutritional aspects of your meals, check out this resource for more information on healthy eating practices.
So, grab your apron and let’s dive into creating a soup that’s sure to warm your soul!
Ingredients for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
Are you ready to recreate the magic of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe right in your kitchen? Let’s gather the essential ingredients that promise rich flavors and comforting warmth in every spoonful. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Thighs: 4 bone-in, skin-on for rich flavor (about 2 pounds)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped (about 1 cup)
- Celery: 3 ribs, chopped (about 2 cups)
- Carrots: 3 medium, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
- Yellow Bell Pepper: 1 large, chopped
- Russet Potatoes: 2 medium (1 pound), peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
- Garlic: 4 cloves, chopped
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can, no-salt added
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Kosher Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Chicken Stock: 1 (32 oz) carton, low-sodium
- Water: 4 cups (or chicken stock for a richer flavor)
- Ditalini Pasta: ½ cup, to add some delightful texture
- Italian Parsley: ½ cup, fresh and chopped
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked, to taste
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in conjuring the delightful essence of this soup. So, what are you waiting for? Gather these ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy! Want more inspiration? Check out this guide on the best chicken stock options.
Step-by-step preparation of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
Making Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup is a fantastic way to warm your home and impress your friends with a delicious, homemade meal. Let’s dive into this easy, step-by-step preparation method that will have you enjoying a bowl of hearty soup in no time.
Gather your ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 3 celery ribs, chopped (about 2 cups)
- 3 medium carrots, chopped (about 1.5 cups)
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1 pound)
- 4 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 2 dry bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
- 4 cups water (or additional chicken stock)
- ½ cup dry ditalini pasta
- ½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
You might find it helpful to lay these out in your kitchen, so you can check them off as you go!
Sauté the aromatics
Start by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. Once it’s warmed up, add some olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil) and toss in the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté them for 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This step is crucial because it builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Add chicken and vegetables
Now it’s time to add the star of your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe: the chicken! Place the chicken thighs in the pot and surround them with the celery, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, bay leaves, and kosher salt. Pour in the chicken stock and water, then season it with freshly cracked black pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer to perfection
Cover your pot partially and allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when the magic happens—the chicken becomes tender, and the flavors meld beautifully. You’ll want to check occasionally and give it a stir, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom.
Shred chicken and finish the soup
Once your chicken is tender and practically falling off the bone, carefully remove it using tongs. Let it cool for a minute or two, then shred it using two forks, leaving the skin and bones behind. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Don’t forget to add the ditalini pasta next! Let the soup simmer for an additional 13-15 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Once everything is well-cooked, discard the bay leaves, stir in the fresh parsley, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
And there you have it—your very own cozy bowl of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup! Ideal for a chilly evening or any time you crave comfort food. Enjoy!
Variations on Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
Adding a spicy kick
If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, consider enhancing your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe by incorporating a delightful kick. A simple way to do this is by adding 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños during the cooking process. For an extra layer of flavor, you can sauté the spices with the vegetables at the beginning. This small adjustment can elevate the warmth of the soup and make it a favorite among heat lovers.
Making it vegetarian-friendly
Craving the flavors of this soup but need a vegetarian option? You can easily adapt the Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup by replacing chicken with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or chickpeas. Swap out the chicken stock for vegetable stock for a robust base and keep all the lovely veggies. Adding lentils or extra beans will boost protein levels and offer a satisfying texture. By doing this, you’ll maintain the soul-warming goodness without compromising on taste!
Check out more tips for vegetarian soup recipes here.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
When you dive into this Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe, think about prepping your veggies ahead of time. This can save you time during cooking and help the flavors meld beautifully. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: the taste of the chicken and vegetables will shine through!
Don’t shy away from adjusting the salt to your liking—kosher salt elevates the flavor but always taste as you go. If you're after a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or an extra dose of black pepper can mimic that authentic Carrabba’s kick. Lastly, enjoy the process; cooking is as much about the experience as it is about the food!
Serving Suggestions for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
When enjoying your delicious Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe, consider adding complementary flavors and textures to elevate your meal. Here are a few engaging serving suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic knots for a delightful dip and crunch.
- Salad Pairing: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty soup perfectly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkling some grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper on top adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: For a fragrant finish, toss in a few sprigs of fresh basil or thyme right before serving—these herbs enhance the Italian vibe beautifully.
So next time you whip up this cozy dish, try these ideas to impress friends or family!
Time Breakdown for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
Preparation Time
Getting started on your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe is a breeze! You'll only need about 10 minutes to chop your vegetables and gather your ingredients. This quick prep means you can dive into the heart of making this delicious dish without much fuss.
Cooking Time
Once the mis-en-place is done, the cooking will take approximately 45 minutes. This includes simmering the chicken and letting the flavors meld beautifully. You'll love how the aromas fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste along the way!
Total Time
When it's all said and done, from prep to the moment you sit down with a warm bowl, you’re looking at a total of about 55 minutes. It’s a small time commitment for a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day!
Ready to make your own Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup? Check out more helpful cooking tips and tricks here.
Nutritional Facts for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
Calories
With a hearty serving of Carrabba's Copycat Chicken Soup, you get about 260 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for a meal without feeling overly indulgent, ideal for anyone aiming to enjoy nourishing food while keeping an eye on their caloric intake.
Protein
You're in for a protein boost—this soup offers approximately 34.7 grams per serving! This comes from the chicken thighs, providing substantial amounts of lean protein that can help keep you fuller for longer.
Sodium
One of the great aspects of making your own soup is controlling the sodium content. Each serving has roughly 177.3 mg of sodium, especially since we've used low-sodium chicken stock. This makes it a heart-healthy choice compared to many store-bought soups.
By preparing this Carrabba's Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe, you not only savor a delightful bowl of comfort but also enjoy the benefits of a nutritious meal. For more tips on healthy cooking, you can check out Harvard Health.
FAQs about Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts might seem like a leaner option, they can dry out easily during cooking. For the best flavor and tenderness in your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe, it's recommended to stick with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They provide rich flavor and moisture, making your soup truly delicious.
How can I store the soup?
You can store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen!
What can I serve with chicken soup?
Pair your wonderful Chicken Soup with freshly baked bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or some crusty garlic bread on the side. It adds a delightful touch and complements the flavors beautifully!
Conclusion on Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup
In summary, this Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe is a delicious and simple way to warm your soul. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and hearty ditalini pasta, each bowl is an embrace on a chilly day. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade Italian cuisine!
Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe
Equipment
- large soup pot
Ingredients
- 4 thighs bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs about 2 pounds
- 1 medium onion chopped, about 1 cup
- 3 ribs celery chopped, about 2 cups
- 3 medium carrots chopped, about 1 ½ cups
- 1 large yellow bell pepper chopped
- 2 medium russet potatoes peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 can no-salt diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
- 2 dry bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 carton low-sodium chicken stock 32 oz
- 4 cups water or chicken stock
- ½ cup dry ditalini pasta
- ½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
- Fresh black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, at least 6-quart, combine chicken, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt.
- Add chicken stock and water. Season to taste with black pepper. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 30 minutes or until chicken is tender and easily falling off the bones. Remove chicken from the pot with a pair of tongs.
- Add pasta to the soup and continue cooking for 13-15 minutes, partially covered, until pasta is tender. Don’t forget to stir the soup couple times so the pasta does not stick.
- Meanwhile shred the chicken with two forks, discarding the skin and bones. Return shredded chicken to the pot. At this point, the soup will almost be done. Taste the veggies, especially the potatoes for doneness.
- Discard the bay leaves. Stir in parsley and serve.
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