How to Make Chicken Soup: Italian Grandma Style (Thick & Hearty)

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is leaner, while chicken thighs are more affordable.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Vegetable broth is lower in calories, and bouillon is cost-effective.

Parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated Pecorino

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free, while Pecorino is often less expensive.

pasta

🥗Healthier: zucchini noodles

💰Cheaper: rice

Zucchini noodles are lower in carbs, and rice is budget-friendly.

Heat olive oil in a large pot until hot.

Sear chicken legs in the hot oil until they get color on both sides.

Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes to the pot.

Let the vegetables soak up the flavor from the chicken for a few minutes.

Add about 12 cups of water to the pot.

Season with salt, black pepper, and tomato paste; mix well.

Cook on low for about 45 minutes.

Remove chicken from the pot and shred it, then return it to the soup.

Add spaghetti to the pot and break it into smaller pieces.

Cook the pasta for 10 minutes, adding more water if necessary.

Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and add grated Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens