There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming aroma that fills the kitchen when you’re simmering a pot of homemade broth. On one rainy afternoon, with clouds rolling in and skies darkening, I decided it was the perfect time to whip up a comforting bowl of Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables. This dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those dreary days or when you need a pick-me-up after a long week.
Using just a handful of fresh ingredients like tender spinach, sweet peas, and shredded chicken, this recipe is incredibly easy yet bursting with flavor. With each spoonful, you’ll find a delightful surprise – ribbons of egg that create a velvety texture, combined with the sharpness of freshly grated Parmesan, elevating your dining experience. Join me in the kitchen as we embark on the journey of creating this nourishing soup, guaranteed to become a new staple in your home!
Why will you love Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables?
Heartwarming Taste: This soup combines the rich flavor of chicken broth with fresh vegetables, making every bite comforting and delicious.
Simple Preparation: Minimal cooking skills are required, making it perfect for busy weeknights or anyone learning to cook.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with spinach, peas, and protein-rich chicken, this dish nourishes both body and soul.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your palate—customization is welcome!
Instant Crowd-Pleaser: One bowl of this delightful soup, and your family will be asking for seconds—it’s sure to become a favorite!
Treat yourself to this delightful recipe and discover why homemade broth brings warmth to every meal.
Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables Ingredients
For the Broth
- Low sodium chicken broth – a flavorful base that ensures a comforting taste in your Stracciatella soup.
- Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese – adds a rich creaminess that perfectly complements the broth.
For the Soup
- Eggs – create those delightful ribbons in the soup, which give it a velvety texture.
- Shredded cooked chicken – provides protein and heartiness to make this soup a meal in itself.
- Baby spinach – brings vibrant color and essential nutrients, making every spoonful healthy.
- Green peas – offer a touch of sweetness and a pop of color throughout your dish.
- Nutmeg – a pinch of this spice adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For Serving
- Freshly cracked black pepper – for seasoning that elevates the flavors when served.
- Lemon wedges – a squeeze of lemon brightens the entire dish and adds a refreshing zing.
- Good olive oil – drizzling this on top enhances richness and adds depth to the flavors.
- Torn fresh basil – for a fragrant finish that will have your kitchen smelling divine.
- Additional Parmesan cheese – because one can never have too much cheese!
Gather these wholesome ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a nourishing bowl of Stracciatella Soup that warms the heart!
How to Make Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables
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Simmer the Broth: In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of low sodium chicken broth to a gentle simmer. This will create the flavorful base for your soup—simply heavenly!
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Prepare the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the 4 eggs until well mixed. Gradually stir in some of the warm broth to temper the eggs, preventing them from scrambling when added to the pot.
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Combine the Mixtures: Carefully return the egg mixture to the pot, stirring gently to mix everything together. The goal is to create those beautiful, silky ribbons of egg throughout the soup.
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Add the Ingredients: Next, add in the 1/2 cup of grated cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, the 2 cups of shredded chicken, 2 cups of baby spinach, 1 cup of green peas, and the sliced green onions. Stir well to incorporate all the delightful flavors!
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Cook Until Tender: Let the soup simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the peas are tender. Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas!
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Season the Soup: Give your soup a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for seasoning, and taste to adjust as necessary. This adds a wonderful flavor boost to every spoonful.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with lemon wedges, a drizzle of olive oil, torn fresh basil, and extra Parmesan cheese. Each bowl is a little piece of comfort!
Optional: Garnish with extra basil for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables are perfect for busy home cooks who want a quick, comforting meal on hand! You can prep the components—like shredding the chicken, washing the spinach, and measuring out the broth—up to 3 days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply bring the broth to a simmer, then follow the usual steps to combine the ingredients (adding tempered eggs, chicken, spinach, and peas) for a delicious and warming dish that’s just as satisfying as freshly made! By prepping ahead, you’ll be serving a hearty meal with minimal effort—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting soup to suit your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a hearty, plant-based option. This swap retains the soup’s flavor and adds a protein boost.
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Dairy-Free: Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese and coconut cream for a creamy texture without any dairy. It offers a delicious twist while keeping it rich!
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat. This adds exciting depth and a zing to every spoonful.
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Noodle Lover’s Delight: Stir in some cooked noodles or pasta for a heartier version. This not only makes it more filling but also adds a lovely chewiness to the soup’s texture.
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Herb Upgrade: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an herbaceous burst. This adds a vibrant flair that complements the summer vegetables perfectly.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some orange juice along with the lemon for a unique citrus twist. The sweetness balances beautifully against the savory broth.
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Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in other seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand!
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Quinoa Option: Substitute cooked quinoa for the chicken or as an additional ingredient for added texture and protein. It makes the soup even heartier and more satisfying.
Expert Tips for Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables
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Egg Tempering: Always temper the eggs with warm broth gradually. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling, ensuring those beautiful silky ribbons.
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Cheese Variations: Use either Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, or mix both for a unique flavor twist! Just remember not to skimp, as the cheese enriches your Stracciatella soup immensely.
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Freshness Matters: Opt for fresh baby spinach and green peas to enhance the soup’s vibrant colors and flavors. Frozen veggies can work, but fresh elevates the dish substantially.
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Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! A pinch more nutmeg or even a dash of cayenne can create a personalized touch that suits your palate.
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Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other spring vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to customize your soup. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to cook in the same time frame as the peas!
How to Store and Freeze Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze Stracciatella soup for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of broth to restore the original texture.
Serving Fresh: For the best flavor, enjoy your Stracciatella soup within a couple of days. Each bowl is a cozy reminder of home cooking!
What to Serve with Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables?
Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a cozy meal to complement this heartwarming soup.
- Crusty French Bread: The perfect companion for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth while offering a satisfying crunch.
- Garlic Bread: With its buttery, garlicky goodness, it adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup’s lighter profile.
- Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup, enhancing your meal’s textures.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies add depth and a hint of sweetness, balancing the soup’s savory elements.
- Parmesan Crostini: These crunchy bites topped with more cheese offer a delightful twist, highlighting the rich flavors of the Stracciatella.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A sparkling citrus beverage stimulates the palate, cleansing between savory sips of the comforting soup.
- Lemon Tart: For dessert, the bright, tangy flavors of a lemon tart contrast beautifully with the soup, ending your meal on a refreshing note.
Each of these pairings brings its unique flair, enhancing your dining experience alongside the nourishing comfort of Stracciatella soup.
Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Vegetables Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best spinach for my Stracciatella soup?
Absolutely! When choosing spinach, look for vibrant green leaves that are not wilted or yellowing. Fresh baby spinach is ideal as it’s tender and flavorful. Avoid any leaves with dark spots or slimy textures, as these are signs of spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover Stracciatella soup?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to preserve its flavors and prevent condensation, which can affect texture.
Can I freeze Stracciatella soup?
Yes, you can freeze Stracciatella soup for up to 3 months! To do so, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion, and label them clearly. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed to regain creaminess.
What should I do if my eggs scramble instead of forming ribbons?
No worries! If your eggs happen to scramble, it could be because they were added too quickly to the broth without tempering. Next time, beat the eggs well, then gradually whisk in small amounts of warm broth until they’re warm, ensuring a smoother mixture when added to the pot. If scrambling occurs, simply stir well to incorporate the bits for a delicious texture that still tastes great!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Indeed! This Stracciatella soup contains eggs and dairy, making it unsuitable for those with egg or lactose allergies. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese substitute and leaving out the eggs. The soup will still be nutritious and comforting, just without the creamy texture from the cheese and egg ribbons!
Heartwarming Stracciatella Soup with Chicken and Spring Veggies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of low sodium chicken broth to a gentle simmer.
- In a separate bowl, beat the 4 eggs until well mixed. Gradually stir in some of the warm broth to temper the eggs.
- Carefully return the egg mixture to the pot, stirring gently to create silky ribbons.
- Add the 1/2 cup of grated cheese, a pinch of nutmeg, 2 cups of shredded chicken, 2 cups of baby spinach, and 1 cup of green peas. Stir well.
- Let the soup simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and peas are tender.
- Give the soup a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with lemon wedges, olive oil, torn basil, and extra Parmesan cheese.