Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Italy with our Brodo di Pollo, a delightful Italian Chicken Soup that promises to wrap you in comfort with every spoonful. Imagine a bowl filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, aromatic broth that beckons you to savor the moment. This recipe, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather, is not just a meal—it's a culinary hug! Ready to unlock the secrets of this traditional dish? Let’s dive into the art of crafting this soul-soothing soup that will have your family asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the whole chicken thoroughly under cold water, removing any giblets from the cavity.
- Place the entire chicken in a large stockpot, ensuring it fits comfortably with room for additional ingredients.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery stalks, quartered onion, and smashed garlic cloves around the chicken.
- Pour cold water into the pot, covering the chicken and vegetables completely, typically about 10-12 cups of water.
- Add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to enhance the broth's flavor profile.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce to a low simmer.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the initial cooking phase to ensure a clear, clean broth.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer slowly for approximately 1 hour, allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly and flavors to meld.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the broth using tongs, letting it rest on a cutting board to cool slightly.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove vegetables and ensure a smooth, clear liquid.
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones, discarding skin and bones.
- Return the shredded chicken to the strained broth and reheat gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by crusty Italian bread for a complete and comforting meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for a whole free-range chicken. The quality of the meat greatly influences the taste of the broth.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer gently. This slow cooking process extracts maximum flavor from the chicken and vegetables, resulting in a richer broth.
- Skim the Foam: As the soup begins to boil, you'll notice foam rising to the surface. Skimming this off helps achieve a clear and clean broth.
- Season Gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, and adjust to taste as the soup cooks. This allows you to control the flavor without over-seasoning.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the soup's flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil for a unique twist.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with some delicious crusty Italian bread for dipping. It’s the perfect complement to this hearty dish!
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge; just reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
