Chicken Soup Carrabba’s Recipe

Chicken Soup from Carrabba’s is a warm, comforting dish that’s more than just a bowl of soup. It’s a flavorful experience, filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs that make it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re craving something that will soothe your soul or searching for a dish to share with family and friends, Carrabba’s Chicken Soup has become an iconic choice for many.

What makes Carrabba’s Chicken Soup stand out is its combination of simple, quality ingredients and the care put into crafting the flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a homemade masterpiece, offering the kind of warmth and heartiness that only a good bowl of soup can bring.

So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of this comforting dish, you’re in for a treat. Let’s break down everything you need to know to recreate this beloved soup at home.

Chicken Soup Carrabba’s Recipe

The beauty of Carrabba’s Chicken Soup lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient complements one another. There’s a perfect balance of rich, savory chicken flavor, the lightness of fresh vegetables, and the subtle kick from a few well-chosen seasonings. It’s both filling and soothing-a perfect dish for any season.

In this recipe, we’ll cover the essential ingredients, detailed cooking instructions, and everything you need to know to get your soup to taste just like it does at Carrabba’s.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a full list of what you’ll need for the soup. Some of these ingredients are pantry staples, while others add that extra layer of flavor Carrabba’s is known for.

• Chicken Breasts

  • Skinless, boneless, and cooked to perfection. You can either poach the chicken or roast it for added flavor.
  • A good source of protein that keeps the soup filling and rich.

• Carrots

  • Thinly sliced or diced for a little crunch and natural sweetness.

• Celery

  • Adds an aromatic freshness to the broth and works well with the carrots to bring balance.

• Onion

  • Adds depth and sweetness when sautéed. It’s a key ingredient in the base of the soup.

• Garlic

  • Fresh garlic cloves provide a mild, earthy flavor that elevates the overall taste of the soup.

• Olive Oil

  • Used for sautéing vegetables and providing a rich, smooth base.

• Chicken Broth

  • The backbone of the soup, providing the liquid for all the other ingredients to meld together. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the flavor.

• Tomatoes

  • Diced tomatoes add a subtle tang and vibrant color, contributing to the soup’s richness.

• Italian Seasoning

  • A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary gives the soup its signature flavor profile.

• Parsley

  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

• Salt & Pepper

  • To taste. These seasonings are crucial in bringing the flavors to life.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have everything ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making this delicious Chicken Soup.

1. Cook The Chicken

   • Start by cooking your chicken breasts. If you’re poaching, place them in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. You can also roast them in the oven at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, then shred the meat.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onions are soft and the vegetables are slightly tender.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance.

3. Add The Broth And Tomatoes

   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), and stir in the Italian seasoning.
   • Allow everything to cook together for about 15-20 minutes, so the flavors have time to develop.

4. Shred The Chicken

   • While the soup is simmering, take the cooked chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Add the shredded chicken into the pot with the broth and vegetables.

5. Simmer

   • Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes. This is when the chicken absorbs all the flavors of the broth and the seasonings meld together.

6. Season To Taste

   • Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. You may also want to add more Italian seasoning if you prefer a stronger flavor.

7. Garnish And Serve

   • Once everything is nicely blended and the soup is hot, serve it up in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.

Ingredient Insights

Understanding why each ingredient works so well in this recipe can elevate your cooking and make the dish even more enjoyable.

• Chicken

  • The chicken adds richness and a filling texture. Whether poached or roasted, the chicken helps create a hearty base for the soup. Shredded chicken pieces absorb the broth’s flavors, making each bite incredibly flavorful.

• Carrots & Celery

  • These two vegetables are foundational in many classic soups. They bring a natural sweetness and a fresh crunch, giving the soup a variety of textures that complement the tender chicken.

• Garlic & Onion

  • Garlic provides an aromatic, earthy undertone that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the onions. Together, they create a flavorful foundation that is savory and comforting.

• Italian Seasoning

  • A blend of herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano not only infuses the soup with an Italian flair but also adds complexity and depth. These herbs are traditional in many Mediterranean dishes, making them perfect for the light, yet flavorful broth.

• Tomatoes

  • The tomatoes’ acidity balances the richness of the chicken and broth, adding a touch of tanginess that brightens the entire dish.

Expert Tips

To really master this recipe and take it to the next level, here are some tips from the experts:

• Poaching The Chicken

  • Poaching the chicken in the broth instead of roasting can infuse even more flavor into the soup. Plus, it keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

• Make It Ahead

  • Soups often taste better the next day. You can prepare it in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the following day.

• Adjust The Broth

  • If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more chicken broth or even a splash of water. For a richer taste, try using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought broth.

• Season Gradually

  • When seasoning, always start small and taste as you go. Over-seasoning can overpower the natural flavors of the soup.

• Garnish With Croutons Or Parmesan

  • If you want an extra burst of flavor and texture, top your soup with crispy homemade croutons or a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Variations

While Carrabba’s Chicken Soup is incredible on its own, you can always adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Spicy Chicken Soup

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.

• Creamy Chicken Soup

  • For a richer, creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.

• Gluten-Free

  • If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply skip any pasta or croutons, or substitute gluten-free pasta if desired.

• Vegetarian Option

  • Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also add tofu for protein.

Final Words

Carrabba’s Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of goodness that can take you through the coldest days or add a warm touch to a busy weeknight dinner. It’s a simple recipe with the right balance of flavors, texture, and heart. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this soup has a way of bringing people together.