Italian Style Chicken Noodle Soup

Italian Style Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting twist on a timeless classic. With savory herbs, tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta simmered in a flavorful broth, this hearty soup brings a rustic Italian flair to the beloved chicken noodle combo. It’s wholesome, simple to prepare, and perfect for cozy nights or when you need a nourishing bowl of goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of traditional Italian flavors
• Hearty, wholesome, and filling
• Great for meal prep or a make-ahead dinner
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Soothing and nourishing when you’re under the weather

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Chicken broth or stock
• Canned diced tomatoes (optional)
• Small pasta (like ditalini, orzo, or broken spaghetti)
• Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Directions

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the pot.
6. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes depending on the type.
7. Stir in spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Tomato Base: Add crushed or diced tomatoes for a slightly richer broth.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream and Parmesan for a creamy twist.
• Slow Cooker Option: Add all ingredients except pasta and greens to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.
• Low-Carb: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Herb Boost: Use fresh rosemary and thyme for deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
• Note: For best results, cook pasta separately and add to individual bowls before serving to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

What pasta is best for this soup?

Small shapes like ditalini, orzo, or broken spaghetti work best and are traditional in Italian-style soups.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut. Just skip the raw chicken step and add the shredded meat when the broth is simmering.

Is this soup spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes. Omit them for a milder version.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! It reheats well. For best texture, keep the pasta separate until serving.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta. Add fresh pasta when reheating.

Can I add beans?

Absolutely. Cannellini or white beans are great for adding protein and creaminess.

What herbs go best?

Italian seasoning, fresh basil, parsley, rosemary, and thyme are excellent choices.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just remove the bones before shredding the meat.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh side salad pair beautifully.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. The soup will still be rich and delicious.

Conclusion

Italian Style Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm, comforting, and nourishing bowl filled with fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Whether you’re feeding the family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a simple way to cozy up, this recipe brings the heart of Italian home cooking to your table in the most delicious way.

Print