Name: Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 2 whole skin-on and bone-in split chicken breasts; tablespoons olive oil (to drizzle); teaspoons salt (to taste); teaspoons black pepper (to taste); 3 whole heads garlic; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 whole onion (finely diced); 2 whole carrots (peeled and finely diced); 2 whole parsnips (peeled and finely diced); 2 whole ribs celery (finely diced); 2 cups cubed or diced butternut squash; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; pinch red pepper flakes; 1 can (6 ounce) tomato paste; 4.5 cups chicken stock; 1 small piece parmesan rind (optional); 16 ounces package gnocchi (optional); 2 cups chopped kale; 0.25 cups fresh basil leaves (julienned); 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley; freshly-grated parmigiano-reggiano (for garnish)

Introduction to Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup to bring comfort and joy. This delightful dish combines tender chicken and a medley of seasonal vegetables, including vibrant butternut squash and hearty kale, creating a nourishing meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day.

Why It's Perfect for Young Professionals

For young professionals juggling busy work schedules, this soup is an ideal solution. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also provides nutritional balance with wholesome ingredients – something we can all appreciate when seeking healthier meals. With a prep time of just 30 minutes and a total cook time of around an hour and 15 minutes, it’s flexible enough to fit into your evening routine.

Additionally, it makes great use of autumn produce, so you can enjoy the flavors of the season while supporting local farmers. Imagine walking in after a long day to the inviting aroma of this soup simmering on the stove—it's sure to turn any ordinary weeknight into something special.

This recipe from The Cozy Apron captures the essence of fall and showcases how easy it can be to make healthy, hearty meals at home. With a little planning, you can enjoy a comforting bowl that brings warmth to your soul!

Ingredients for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Essential ingredients list

To create a warm and hearty Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, you'll need the following ingredients to bring those rich flavors to life:

2 skin-on and bone-in split chicken breasts
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
3 whole heads of garlic
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 finely diced onion
2 peeled and finely diced carrots
2 peeled and finely diced parsnips
2 finely diced ribs of celery
2 cups cubed butternut squash
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
A pinch of red pepper flakes
1 (6-ounce) can of tomato paste
4 ½ cups chicken stock
A small piece of parmesan rind (optional)
16 ounces of gnocchi (optional)
2 cups of chopped kale
¼ cup of fresh basil leaves, julienned
1 tablespoon of chopped flat-leaf parsley
Freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano for garnish

Optional additions for variety

Feel free to get creative! Here are some optional additions to tweak the Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup to your taste:

Leafy greens: Spinach or Swiss chard can be great substitutes for kale.
Protein swaps: Consider using turkey bacon or chicken ham for an extra savory kick.
Additional veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms could add texture and flavor.
Spices: A little dash of smoked paprika or ground cumin can deepen the flavor profile of your soup.

With such a versatile ingredient list, your soup can become a delightful reflection of your culinary style!

Preparing Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Making a cozy Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup is a delightful way to welcome the flavors of the season into your kitchen. This recipe is not just warm and filling; it's also a vibrant medley of roasted chicken, sweet butternut squash, and nutrient-rich kale. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Gather and prep the ingredients

Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: 2 skin-on, bone-in split chicken breasts
Vegetables: Onion, carrots, parsnips, celery, butternut squash, garlic, and kale
Seasonings: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper
Base: Olive oil, unsalted butter, tomato paste, chicken stock, and parmesan rind (optional)
Extras: Gnocchi and fresh herbs like basil and parsley for garnish

Take a moment to chop everything up as directed in the recipe. This not only makes cooking smoother but also keeps you organized. Learn more about ingredient prepping on Food Network.

Roast the chicken and garlic

Next, up the flavor by roasting both the chicken and garlic. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Arrange the chicken breasts on the sheet and drizzle with olive oil, sprinkling plenty of salt and black pepper over them. Cut the tops off the garlic heads, drizzle with oil and a pinch of salt, wrap them in foil, and place them beside the chicken. Roast everything for about 45-50 minutes until the chicken is golden and the garlic is soft.

Sauté the aromatics

Once the chicken and garlic are out of the oven and have cooled a bit, it’s time to get aromatic! In a large soup pot over medium heat, add about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the finely diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent — this is where the magic begins! Incorporating the roasted garlic paste into the pot adds a beautiful depth to your soup.

Add veggies and seasonings

Now for the fun part. Toss in your diced carrots, parsnips, celery, and butternut squash. Stir in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some warmth. Don't forget to incorporate the tomato paste, which needs a minute or two to meld with the veggies. It’s this blend of flavors that makes the Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup so special.

Simmer and finish the soup

Pour in that delicious chicken stock and add the parmesan rind for an additional flavor boost. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat, cover, and let it gently cook for 20-22 minutes until the veggies are tender. If you’re using gnocchi, prepare it as per package instructions while the soup simmers. Once everything is cooked through, add the chopped kale and shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring in fresh basil and parsley just before serving.

With just a little preparation and diligence, you’re on your way to enjoy a heartwarming bowl of Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup. And who knows? It might just become your new go-to dish for those chilly evenings.

Variations on Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Adding Noodles or Gnocchi

For a heartier twist on your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, consider adding some noodles or gnocchi. If you choose pasta, opt for shapes like penne or farfalle, cooking them separately and stirring them in just before serving to maintain the perfect texture. Gnocchi can be a fantastic, comforting choice; just prepare them following package instructions, and fold them into your soup for a delightful, pillowy bite.

Vegetarian Alternative Ideas

Craving a vegetarian version? You can easily swap the chicken for some protein-packed chickpeas or cannellini beans. Replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth, and feel free to throw in seasonal veggies like sweet potatoes or zucchini. Not only will you have a warm, hearty soup, but it will be packed with nutrients too! For more veggie inspiration, check out this guide.

Cooking tips and notes for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Enhancing flavor with herbs

To elevate your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup, consider using fresh herbs like basil and parsley, which infuse freshness into each bowl. Dried herbs can also work wonders—experiment with thyme and oregano for added depth. A sprinkle of fresh herb on top just before serving makes a world of difference, enhancing both flavor and presentation!

Storage tips for leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen with time, making the next day's soup even more delicious! You can also freeze individual portions to enjoy this cozy dish anytime. Just make sure to leave out the gnocchi until reheating to maintain their texture. For more insights on freezing soups, check out this guide from the USDA.

Serving suggestions for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Best accompaniments and garnishes

To enhance your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty artisanal bread or warm focaccia for that perfect dip. A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast.

For garnishing, a sprinkle of freshly-grated parmigiano-reggiano and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add depth and flavor to each bowl. You might even add a few pinches of red pepper flakes for a delightful kick! If you're feeling adventurous, serve with a dollop of pesto on top for an herby twist. How do you like to enjoy your soup?

Time Breakdown for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Preparation Time

This delightful soup takes about 30 minutes of preparation to gather and chop all the ingredients. It's a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy the cooking process.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, you'll need approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes for cooking. This includes roasting the chicken and garlic, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Total Time

In total, you'll spend about 1 hour and 45 minutes creating this heartwarming Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup. Perfect for a cozy evening at home!

For more tips on quick prep methods, check out Food Network's guide on meal prep. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Nutritional facts for Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup contains approximately 487 calories. This makes it a hearty option for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without overindulging.

Protein content

Packed with tender chicken and nutrient-rich vegetables, this soup offers a robust protein content of around 30 grams per serving. It's a great way to nourish your body, keeping you energized throughout your busy day.

Fiber and vitamin information

In addition to its protein, this soup is a fiber powerhouse, thanks to the inclusion of butternut squash, kale, and other seasonal veggies. It delivers essential vitamins like vitamin A, C, and K, supporting your immune system and overall health. Adding this dish to your meal plan could help reach your daily fiber goals, providing about 6 grams of fiber per serving. Toss in some whole grain bread for an extra kick!

For more nutrition insights, check out this article on theimportance of fiber. 🍲

FAQs about Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

Can I make it in advance?

Absolutely! The Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup is perfect for meal prep. Making it a day or two in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you're looking for alternatives, you can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Tofu or tempeh are excellent plant-based options too, offering protein while keeping the soup hearty and satisfying.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers of your Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, and you'll have a delicious, warm meal ready to go! For more tips on storing soups, check out The Spruce Eats.

Feel free to dive into our full recipe here and enjoy the warm flavors!

Conclusion on Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup

In conclusion, this Italian Chicken and Autumn Veggie Soup is a nourishing dish perfect for those chilly nights. Its combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a cozy meal that soothes the soul. Give it a try, and enjoy every heartwarming spoonful!