Go Back

Italian Chicken Soup

This hearty Italian chicken soup combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs in a clear, flavorful broth. Using simple cooking methods like sautéing and simmering, it results in a comforting dish with tender meat, bright flavors, and a vibrant, inviting appearance. Perfect for cozy days, it’s adaptable and quick to prepare, offering a nourishing experience in every bowl.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or no preservatives
  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 fennel bulb fennel sliced thin
  • 2 carrots carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • a handful fresh herbs parsley, thyme, or basil, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients: diced chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced fennel, diced carrots and celery, lemon, herbs, and broth, so everything is within reach.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and aromatic, about 5 minutes; the vegetables should soften slightly and release a lovely aroma.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the pot, stirring to sear the pieces until they develop a light golden color, about 7-8 minutes; the chicken should feel firm but not dry, with a gentle sizzle.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface for a clearer broth, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add the sliced fennel, diced carrots, and celery to the simmering soup. Cover the pot and let everything cook gently for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through. The broth should develop a fragrant aroma, and the vegetables should be easily pierced with a fork.
  6. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pot for a bright, zesty finish, then stir to combine. Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing generously with chopped fresh herbs. The vibrant green herbs contrast beautifully with the clear, aromatic broth and tender ingredients, creating an inviting presentation.
  8. Enjoy your comforting, bright Italian chicken soup, perfect for cozy days or lively family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and lemon makes each spoonful both nourishing and flavorful.

Notes

For extra depth, you can add a splash of white wine during sautéing or garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Make ahead and reheat for even better flavor.