Name: Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces skin-on and bone-in split chicken breasts; 2-3 tablespoons olive oil; to taste salt; to taste black pepper; 3 whole heads garlic; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 medium onion (finely diced); 2 medium carrots (peeled and finely diced); 2 medium parsnips (peeled and finely diced); 2 ribs celery (finely diced); 2 cups butternut squash (cubed or diced); 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; a pinch red pepper flakes; 1 can (6 ounce) tomato paste; 4.5 cups chicken stock; 1 small piece parmesan rind (optional); 16 ounce package gnocchi (optional); 2 cups chopped kale; 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves (julienned); 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley; to taste freshly-grated parmigiano-reggiano (for garnish)

Introduction to Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and the air takes on a crispness that beckons cozy indoor gatherings, nothing warms the spirit quite like a homemade soup. Enter the delightful Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup: a bowl brimming with wholesome ingredients that capture the essence of the season. This comforting recipe unites tender chicken, velvety butternut squash, and earthy kale, combined in a rich, savory broth that’s hard to resist.

Homemade soups have a special way of evoking memories and nurturing our souls. They provide warmth not just physically but emotionally, making them the perfect choice for friends and family gatherings. Did you know that enjoying a hot bowl of soup can even boost your mood and promote relaxation? According to a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, savoring comforting meals can enhance feelings of satisfaction. So, why not share a pot of Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup with your loved ones? As you sip and savor, you create an experience that transcends the ingredients.

Ready to dive into this luscious recipe? Let’s explore how you can bring the heart of Italy into your kitchen this fall! For the full ingredients and detailed instructions, check out the recipe by Ingrid Beer here.

Ingredients for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Essential ingredients for a savory soup

Creating a delicious Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:

Chicken: 2 skin-on and bone-in split chicken breasts deliver rich flavor.
Vegetables: Goodness comes from diced onion, carrots, parsnips, and celery—plus cubed butternut squash for a touch of sweetness.
Herbs and Spices: Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes elevate the flavor profile.
Garlic: Roasted garlic adds a lovely depth.
Tomato Paste and Stock: For a robust base, you’ll need both chicken stock and a can of tomato paste.
Kale and Fresh Herbs: These are the finishing touches for vibrancy—use chopped kale, fresh basil, and parsley.

For a complete shopping list and more details, check out our official recipe on The Cozy Apron.

Optional ingredients for personalization

Feel free to make this soup your own with some optional ingredients! If you want to add extra heartiness, consider tossing in:

Gnocchi: This soft pasta can make your soup even more filling.
Parmesan Rind: Adds an extra layer of umami flavor if you're looking for that cheesy touch.

Experimenting with these options can cater to your preferences and elevate your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup experience!

Preparing Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Making a warm bowl of Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket during those crisp autumn nights. This hearty soup is not just delicious; it’s also a wonderful way to celebrate the seasonal bounty of fall vegetables. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this comforting dish, combining tender chicken, roasted garlic, and a medley of nutritious veggies.

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable! You’ll need:

Chicken breasts
Olive oil
Fresh vegetables (onion, carrots, parsnips, celery, butternut squash)
Garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes
Tomato paste and chicken stock
Optional: Gnocchi, kale, and fresh herbs

Chop and dice all the veggies as needed, measure out your seasonings, and set them aside. Having everything prepped helps keep your cooking on track and minimizes any last-minute scrambling.

Roast the chicken and garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. For the garlic, slice off the tops of the heads, drizzle them with a bit of oil, and wrap each in foil. They’ll roast alongside the chicken for about 45-50 minutes. The aroma of roasted garlic will fill your kitchen and elevate the flavors in your soup!

Sauté the vegetables

After the chicken has rested and cooled, it’s time to focus on your vegetables. In a medium-large pot, drizzle in some olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Sauté the finely diced onion for about 3 minutes until it’s translucent. Next, add the roasted garlic paste you created earlier, followed by the diced carrots, parsnips, celery, and butternut squash. Stir in your Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth.

Create the flavorful broth

After your veggies have sautéed for a few minutes, stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for a minute or two. This will intensify the flavor of your broth. Pour in the chicken stock and toss in a parmesan rind if you have it—it’s optional but adds a lovely umami depth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it gently cook for about 20 minutes until those fresh vegetables are tender.

Combine and let simmer

Once your vegetables have cooked, it’s time to add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with the chopped kale. Allow the soup to simmer for another few minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re adding gnocchi, cook them according to package instructions and toss them in right before serving!

Incorporate the finishing touches

Just before serving your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, stir in the fresh basil and parsley for a burst of freshness. Taste your soup, and adjust any seasonings if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan and a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of fall!

By following these steps, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup that not only satisfies but also nourishes. It's perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo on a cool evening.

Variations on Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Swap chicken for turkey for a lighter option

If you're looking to lighten up your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, consider swapping out chicken for turkey. Turkey breast is lower in fat but still provides that hearty protein we crave. Simply replace the chicken breasts with skin-on, bone-in turkey thighs for an extra boost of flavor and richness. This variation is perfect for those post-holiday meals when you want to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort without feeling weighed down.

Add lentils for a vegetarian twist

For a delicious vegetarian twist on the classic Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, ditch the meat entirely and add lentils. Not only do lentils pack a nutritional punch with their high fiber and protein content, but they also absorb the rich flavors of the broth beautifully. You can use green or brown lentils; just add them along with the vegetables and let them simmer until tender. This hearty option is both satisfying and a fantastic way to embrace autumn veggies in a plant-based dish.

For more inspiration with lentils, check out this guide on lentils for creative ideas.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Prep Ahead: To save time, consider prepping your vegetables the night before. Chopping carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash can make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Texture Matters: For a heartier soup, try adding gnocchi or even small pasta shapes! They’ll soak up the delicious flavors and add a satisfying bite.
Seasoning Strategy: Taste as you go—seasoning throughout helps you build layers of flavor. If you love fresh herbs, adding more basil or parsley right before serving can elevate the dish.
Perfect Pairings: Pair your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Feeling adventurous? Try a homemade garlic bread as a side!

For more delicious soup inspirations, check out this soup guide from Food Network.

Perfect Pairings for a Cozy Meal

When you whip up a hearty bowl of Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, you're treating yourself to more than just a delightful dish. To truly enhance your cozy fall dining experience, consider these delicious serving suggestions:

Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a fluffy garlic breadstick to soak up every last drop.
Light Salad: A simple arugula salad with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
Cheese Platter: Create a small cheese platter with slices of aged parmesan or goat cheese, perfect for nibbling alongside your meal.

Each of these suggestions will elevate your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, making it the centerpiece of a warming and satisfying meal. Happy eating!

Time Breakdown for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Preparation Time

With a prep time of about 30 minutes, you’ll have plenty of time to gather and chop your ingredients. Don’t rush this step; a little organization now will make cooking smoother.

Cooking Time

The cooking process takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes roasting the chicken and garlic to infuse rich flavors into the soup, as well as simmering the veggies to perfection.

Total Time

From start to finish, you’ll need approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal, this Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup is not just delicious but also well worth the time invested!

For more detailed steps, check out the full recipe at The Cozy Apron.

Nutritional Facts for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Calories

Each serving of this Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup provides approximately 487 calories, making it a satisfying option for those chilly autumn days.

Protein

Packed with lean chicken and nutrient-rich veggies, this soup boasts about 30 grams of protein per serving. This makes it a great choice for fueling your active lifestyle!

Sodium

With around 800 milligrams of sodium in each serving, you can enjoy a flavorful bowl while being mindful of your daily intake. For a lower sodium option, consider using homemade chicken stock or reducing added salt.

For more details on optimizing your diet while enjoying delicious meals, check out resources like the American Heart Association or USDA Nutrition.

FAQs about Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious!

How long does it last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, your soup will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you're planning to enjoy it later, just reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

What can I use if I don't have gnocchi?

If gnocchi isn’t on hand, there are several tasty alternatives! You can use small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini, or even add some rice or quinoa for a hearty twist. You’ll still achieve that comforting vibe in your soup without missing a beat!

For additional tips on making the most of your soup, check out this resource on meal prepping soups.

Conclusion on Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

In wrapping up our Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup journey, remember that this dish is not just a meal—it's an experience filled with comforting flavors. Whether you’re savoring it alone or sharing with friends, it’s perfect for any autumn gathering. Enjoy!