Name: Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe: A Comforting Twist with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces 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 (1 pound, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes); 4 cloves garlic (chopped); 1 can no-salt diced tomatoes ((14.5 oz)); 2 leaves dry bay; 1 Tbsp 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)

Introduction to Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a warm bowl of chicken soup. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up on chilly days, a soothing remedy for colds, or simply a delightful way to enjoy a cozy night in. Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe captures this essence perfectly—combining a medley of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and flavorful herbs to create a dish that warms your heart.

Why is chicken soup so special? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adapt it to suit dietary preferences. Studies show that foods with comforting flavors can evoke memories and feelings of nostalgia, often linking back to childhood meals shared with family.

Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this soup is not only easy to make but also full of nutrients. The nourishing ingredients, like nutrient-dense veggies and lean chicken, make it a wholesome meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables for those picky eaters out there. Dive into this Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe and revel in the delightful aroma and flavor—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

Ingredients for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

If you’re looking to whip up a comforting bowl of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup, here are the essentials and a few extras that can take your soup to the next level.

Essential Ingredients for the Soup

To create a hearty and flavorful soup, you will need:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
1 medium onion, chopped (approximately 1 cup)
3 celery ribs, chopped (about 2 cups)
3 medium carrots, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can no-salt diced tomatoes
2 dry bay leaves
1 Tbsp. kosher salt
1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
4 cups water (or chicken stock)
½ cup dry ditalini pasta
½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
Fresh black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

Enhance your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe with these optional ingredients:

A splash of lemon juice for brightness
Parmesan cheese, grated, for serving
Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition

Using fresh herbs can also uplift flavors—don’t hesitate to experiment based on what you have on hand! If you're curious about choosing the right vegetables, you might find this guide from Healthline helpful.

By gathering these ingredients, you’re on your way to a delightful homemade soup that will warm your soul. Happy cooking!

Preparing Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Creating your own delicious Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup at home can be a delightful experience. This flavorful soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dish for any cozy evening. Let's dive into the preparation process to make sure you create a soul-warming bowl of soup!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before getting started, it’s essential to have all your ingredients at hand. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. 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 ½ cups)
1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cubed
4 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can of no-salt diced tomatoes
2 dry bay leaves
1 Tbsp. kosher salt
1 (32 oz) carton of low-sodium chicken stock
4 cups water (or chicken stock)
½ cup dry ditalini pasta
½ cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
Fresh black pepper, to taste

Make sure to have a large soup pot ready, preferably at least 6 quarts, to hold all this goodness!

Sauté the Vegetables

In your pot, drizzle a bit of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper, and garlic until they become tender and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful aroma to your kitchen. It’s always amazing how sautéing can transform simple vegetables into a savory base.

Create the Broth

Once your veggies are softened, add in the chicken thighs, diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. Pour in the chicken stock and water, making sure to season with fresh black pepper. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and falls off the bone. For more soup inspirations, check out this soup guide.

Add the Chicken

After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it with a pair of tongs. Let it cool briefly, and then shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, enriching the soup with all that protein.

Cook the Pasta

Stir in your ditalini pasta into the bubbling soup. Allow it to cook for about 13-15 minutes, partially covered. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. This step will give the soup a satisfying heartiness.

Shred the Chicken and Final Touches

After the pasta reaches the desired tenderness, discard the bay leaves. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and give it a final taste. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Now it’s time to serve your comforting Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup! Pair it with some crusty bread for the perfect dinner.

Enjoy crafting this warming soup that will surely be a hit at your next gathering!

Variations on Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Spicy Chicken Soup Variation
If you're craving a little heat, why not spice things up with a spicy twist on the classic Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe? Start by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the initial sauté. For a deeper flavor, incorporate a splash of hot sauce or even a few drops of Sriracha when the soup is nearing completion. This adds a vibrant kick, making the comforting soup a little more lively.

Vegetarian Option
Not in the mood for chicken? No problem! For a comforting vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for hearty veggies like zucchini and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken stock, and for protein, toss in some chickpeas or cannellini beans. You’ll still enjoy a rich, flavorful soup, full of nutrients and deliciousness, perfect for any occasion!

These variations offer delightful options that cater to different tastes while ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious bowl of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup.

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a rich, flavorful broth. They’re not just tasty but also add depth to your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables. Spinach or kale can be great additions for a nutrient boost, while ensuring you stick to density-friendly options.
Simmer to Perfection: Let your soup simmer longer for a more developed flavor. This patience pays off, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting meal.
Pasta Considerations: If you're meal prepping, consider cooking the pasta separately. This prevents it from soaking up too much broth if the soup sits for a while.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Adding parsley at the end infuses the soup with a fresh taste. Try experimenting with other herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.

For more tips on soup making, check out this comprehensive guide from Food Network!

Serving Suggestions for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Creating a hearty bowl of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup is just the beginning! To elevate your meal, consider these serving suggestions:

Pairing with Fresh Bread

There’s nothing quite like a warm, crusty loaf of bread to accompany a steaming bowl of chicken soup. Whether you opt for a sourdough or a buttery garlic bread, it’s great for soaking up those flavorful broth remnants. If you're short on time, pre-made options from your local bakery also do the trick.

Using Toppings for Extra Flavor

Elevate your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like basil or additional Italian parsley to enhance the flavors. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist. A dash of hot sauce can add the perfect kick if you’re in the mood!

With these thoughtful touches, your chicken soup is sure to be a culinary hit at any gathering.

Time Breakdown for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe is a breeze. Plan on about 15 minutes for chopping vegetables and gathering your ingredients. This short prep time means you'll be enjoying this warm, comforting soup in no time!

Cooking Time

Once you've prepared the ingredients, the actual cooking takes approximately 45-50 minutes. You'll bring the soup to a boil, let it simmer while the flavors meld, and cook the pasta to perfection—just enough time to unwind after a busy day.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 5 minutes for your delightful Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup. It's perfect for a cozy night in or impressing friends at your next gathering. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, what’s not to love?

For those who enjoy easy meal prep, this soup stores well and can even be enjoyed as leftovers! Explore more about the nutritional benefits of homemade soups, like those detailed in this Harvard Health article, to add to your cooking repertoire.

Nutritional Facts for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

When diving into our Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe, you might wonder about its health benefits. Here's a quick look at some key nutritional facts to help you enjoy this comfort food guilt-free!

Calories

Each serving of this hearty soup contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying but not overly heavy option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

With around 25 grams of protein per serving, this soup is an excellent source of the essential nutrient. The chicken thighs provide the bulk of this protein, fueling your body and keeping you feeling full longer.

Sodium

Thanks to using low-sodium chicken stock, the sodium content is about 600 mg per serving. This makes the soup a heart-friendly option while still offering robust flavor.

Curious about how to flexibly enhance the recipe for your diet? Consider substituting in seasonal vegetables or opting for gluten-free pasta varieties! For more nutritional insights, check resources like NutritionData or consult the USDA FoodData Central.

FAQs about Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers with the date for easy tracking!

What are the best ways to reheat chicken soup?
For the best results, reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave, but make sure to heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid hot spots. Always check that the soup is heated through thoroughly before enjoying!

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken is a great option if you prefer it! You might want to adjust the cooking time since boneless chicken cooks faster. Just be sure to shred it once it’s cooked—your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup will still be delicious!

If you're curious about more cooking tips and tricks, you can check out resources like Simply Recipes or Eat Well 101 for fresh ideas.

Conclusion on Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

In conclusion, the Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe is a heartwarming dish that promises to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. With its medley of fresh ingredients and rich flavors, it’s the perfect comfort food to share with family or enjoy solo on a cozy evening. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking!