Name: Hearty Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken thighs (Substitute with bone-in, skin-on chicken for deeper flavor.); 1 medium Onion (Yellow or white onions work best.); 2 stalks Celery; 2 medium Carrots; 1 medium Bell pepper (Any colored bell pepper.); 2 medium Potatoes (Optional for a lighter soup.); 1 can Diced tomatoes (Canned is convenient.); 2 leaves Bay leaves (Remove before serving.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 8 cups Chicken stock (Use homemade or store-bought.); 2 cups Water (Adjust less for thicker soup.); 1 cup Ditalini pasta (Consider gluten-free for dietary needs.); 1/4 cup Italian parsley (Chopped for garnish.)

The aroma hits you first—an inviting blend of savory chicken and aromatic veggies dancing together in perfect harmony. As the cold nights draw in, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup to wrap you in warmth. This Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe delivers a delightful one-pot meal that’s not only effortlessly simple but also a true crowd-pleaser. Rich in tender chicken and bursting with fresh vegetables and ditalini pasta, it’s the ideal solution for those long, cozy evenings when you crave a taste of home-cooked goodness. Best of all, it’s made from high-quality ingredients, ensuring every spoonful is both nourishing and satisfying. Ready to discover how to bring this delicious Italian classic to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Make This Chicken Soup Recipe?

Comforting bowls of this Sicilian-inspired soup warm the soul, making every bite a true delight. One-pot convenience means you’re just a simple simmer away from a delicious meal. Rich flavors from tender chicken and vibrant veggies bring the essence of Italy right to your table. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—store leftovers easily or freeze for later! And if you’re looking to mix things up, try adding white beans or spinach for an extra nutrition boost. Cozy up with a side of crusty sourdough bread, and you’ll have the ultimate comfort food experience!

Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup that warms the heart!

For the Soup

Chicken thighs – Provides richness and tenderness; you can substitute with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for a deeper flavor.
Onions – Adds aromatic flavor; yellow or white onions work best for this savory base.
Celery – Contributes crunch and a refreshing taste to balance the dish.
Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color, making the soup visually appealing.
Bell pepper – Brings texture and a slightly sweet flavor; any colored bell pepper can be used.
Potatoes – Provides heartiness; feel free to leave them out for a lighter soup.
Diced tomatoes – Introduces acidity and depth; canned tomatoes are convenient for this recipe.
Bay leaves – Enhances herbal notes; remember to remove before serving for a clean bite.
Garlic – Infuses the soup with robust flavor that elevates every spoonful.
Chicken stock – Forms the soup’s base; use homemade or store-bought for convenience—both add delightful flavor.
Water – Adjusts consistency; use less if you prefer a thicker soup.
Ditalini pasta – Adds substance; consider gluten-free pasta for dietary needs or preferences.
Italian parsley – Provides a fresh burst of flavor and a beautiful garnish to finish off the dish.

Feel free to gather these high-quality ingredients and enjoy creating your own Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large (6-quart) soup pot, combine the chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and minced garlic. Pour in the chicken stock and water until everything is well covered. Stir to ensure the ingredients are mixed, and then place the pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil, watching for bubbles to form and steam to rise. This should take approximately 8-10 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to allow the soup to simmer gently. Cover the pot partially with a lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.

Step 3: Simmer for Tenderness
Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken easily pulls apart with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld together as they dance in the pot.

Step 4: Remove and Shred Chicken
Once the chicken is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside on a cutting board. Allow it to cool for a few minutes. While it cools, stir in the ditalini pasta into the simmering soup, allowing it to cook for about 13-15 minutes or until al dente.

Step 5: Add Shredded Chicken
While the ditalini pasta finishes cooking, shred the chicken, discarding any skin and bones. Once the pasta is tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring everything together to combine. This step ensures that the chicken soup is hearty and packed with flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Final Touches
Before serving, discard the bay leaves hiding in the pot. Stir in the chopped Italian parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed, adding salt or pepper to enhance the flavors further. Your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup is now ready to warm hearts!

Make Ahead Options

These comforting bowls of Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and store them (in an airtight container) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the entire soup base and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before adding the ditalini pasta, which ensures it won’t become mushy. To maintain that homemade flavor, wait to shred and add the chicken until you’re ready to heat and serve. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply warm it up on the stove, add the pasta, and simmer until everything is heated through. This way, you get restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store leftover chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Keep it covered to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months in airtight freezer bags or containers. Leave out the pasta to prevent mushiness; add it when reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding fresh pasta if desired. Stir occasionally to heat evenly.

Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked soup at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and quality.

What to Serve with Comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup?

For a delightful dining experience, consider these perfect pairings that elevate your cozy meal.

Crusty Sourdough Bread: A warm, artisanal loaf adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Garlic Breadsticks: The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the Italian essence of the soup, making every bite a taste sensation.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and croutons create a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty soup, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and carrots bring a sweet and savory note that complements the soup’s flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds a burst of salty richness, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully—its acidity balances the richness of the chicken soup beautifully.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, this side dish offers a unique texture and flavor profile that nicely complements the warmth of the soup.
Pesto Pasta Salad: This cool and vibrant dish with fresh basil and tangy cheese provides a lively contrast to the comforting soup.
Mini Chocolate Tarts: For a sweet finish, consider light, creamy chocolate tarts that bring just the right amount of indulgence after a hearty meal.

Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to make this comforting soup your own with these tasty twists and substitutions!

Lean Chicken: Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a lighter, leaner option while retaining flavor.
Additarian Beans: Incorporate white beans for added protein and creaminess. They make the soup even heartier!
Leafy Greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost.
Enhanced Flavors: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to create unique flavor profiles.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. You can adjust the heat to your family’s liking!
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian delight.
Creamy Twist: For a richer mouthfeel, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving. It adds a luxurious texture!
Alternative Pasta: Swap ditalini for gluten-free pasta or even use wild rice for a fun texture change!

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, consider pairing this soup with Fried Chicken Street for a complete meal experience or check out Grilled Chicken Broccoli to keep those flavors flowing! Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup

Choose Quality Chicken: Use high-quality chicken thighs for rich, tender meat. Avoid pre-packaged options that may contain additives.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slower cooking process melds flavors beautifully—rushing can lead to tough chicken.
Pasta Timing: Add ditalini pasta toward the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. If you have leftovers, cook pasta separately and add when serving!
Flavor Boost: Enhance the depth of flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or a splash of lemon juice before serving—this elevates your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup recipe.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container without pasta, as it can absorb too much liquid. This keeps the soup fresh for longer, ready for a warm-up meal!

Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this soup?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using chicken thighs as they provide a rich and tender flavor that enhances the soup. However, you can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces or even a whole chicken if you’d like to make your own broth.

How should I store leftover chicken soup?
You can store leftover Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness and flavor. If you’re planning on enjoying it later, avoiding the addition of ditalini pasta helps prevent any mushiness.

Can I freeze this chicken soup, and how?
Very! To freeze your soup, pour it into airtight freezer bags or containers, leaving out the pasta to avoid it becoming soggy when reheating. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stove. Don’t forget to add fresh pasta for that delightful texture!

What dietary considerations should I be aware of when making this soup?
If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the recipe. For a gluten-free option, substitute ditalini pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties. Always ensure your chicken stock is also gluten-free if that’s a concern. Additionally, for allergies, be mindful of any individuals allergic to specific vegetables—this soup is quite versatile, and individual ingredients can often be omitted or replaced.

How can I enhance the flavor of my chicken soup?
To elevate the flavor of your Carrabba’s Copycat Chicken Soup, consider adding fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or a splash of lemon juice before serving. I often mix in a tablespoon of flour with a little soup to thicken it up if needed. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your tastes. Each little tweak can make a world of difference!