Welcome, soup lovers! If you’re a fan of spicy, hearty soups, then this Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup recipe is exactly what you need. This dish, inspired by the bold flavors from Carrabba’s, combines the warmth of Italian-American comfort food with just the right amount of kick to spice up your meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner or the perfect way to use leftover chicken, this soup will become your go-to favorite.
Introduction
Originating from the fusion of Italian-American cuisine, Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup offers a mouthwatering blend of vegetables, spices, and tender chicken. What makes this dish special is its versatility and ease. Made with simple ingredients like celery, tomatoes, and pasta, it packs the perfect punch of spice from red pepper flakes. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, making it both delicious and practical.
For those who enjoy comforting Italian flavors and love a little heat, this soup offers the perfect balance of richness and spice. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup
To recreate this Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 celery ribs – diced
- 1 carrot – peeled & diced
- 1/2 yellow onion – diced
- 1 small russet potato – peeled & diced
- 1/2 red pepper – diced
- 1 (14 oz) can of tomatoes – drained & chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp parsley
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 5 cups water
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded chicken (use rotisserie for a time-saving hack)
- 2 cups cooked ditali pasta
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace ditali pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken.
How to Make Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Step by Step
Step1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Dice the celery, onion, carrots, potato, and bell pepper into 1/4-1/2″ pieces. This ensures even cooking and uniform texture.
Step2: Saute the Vegetables
- Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, adding olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced celery, carrots, potato, onion, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step3: Adding Spices and Tomatoes
- Stir in the drained tomatoes, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. This step is key for layering flavors in the soup.
Step4: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the water and chicken broth. Cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil over medium-low heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for an hour.
Step5: Mashing the Vegetables
- Use a potato masher to gently mash some of the vegetables at the bottom of the pot. This creates a thicker, creamier texture while keeping some vegetable chunks intact.
Step6: Adding Chicken and Cooking Pasta
- Add the shredded chicken to the soup and let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the ditali pasta according to package instructions.
Step7: Combine and Serve
- Just before serving, stir the cooked pasta into the soup. Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
Helpful Tips for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup
- For the best flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken. The seasoning from the chicken adds depth to the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, feel free to mash more vegetables or add a slurry of water and cornstarch.
- Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup
- Tip 1: Use a Dutch oven for even cooking and heat distribution.
- Tip 2: Make sure to sauté the vegetables before adding the liquids to enhance the flavors.
- Tip 3: Let the soup simmer on low heat to allow all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup
This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty Italian bread for dipping. To elevate the experience, consider serving it with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing lemon iced tea.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. It provides a good source of protein, vitamins from vegetables, and energy-boosting carbs.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
- Calories: 213 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 15g
Storage and Leftovers for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup
To store, let the soup cool to room temperature and then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Follow the same steps for preparing the ingredients, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
- How spicy is this soup?
- The soup has a moderate kick due to the red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- Absolutely! If using fresh, be sure to peel and chop them before adding to the soup.
- Can I add more vegetables?
- Definitely! This soup is versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
Related Recipes for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered this Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup recipe, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or as a quick meal during the week, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you’ve added to make it your own!
Try this flavorful recipe today, and enjoy the taste of Carrabba’s from the comfort of your own kitchen!
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Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide
Description
Welcome, soup lovers! If you’re a fan of spicy, hearty soups, then this Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup recipe is exactly what you need. This dish, inspired by the bold flavors from Carrabba’s, combines the warmth of Italian-American comfort food with just the right amount of kick to spice up your meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner or the perfect way to use leftover chicken, this soup will become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 celery ribs – diced
- 1 carrot – peeled & diced
- 1/2 yellow onion – diced
- 1 small russet potato – peeled & diced
- 1/2 red pepper – diced
- 1 (14 oz) can of tomatoes – drained & chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp parsley
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 5 cups water
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded chicken (use rotisserie for a time-saving hack)
- 2 cups cooked ditali pasta
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace ditali pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Dice the celery, onion, carrots, potato, and bell pepper into 1/4-1/2″ pieces. This ensures even cooking and uniform texture.
Step 2: Saute the Vegetables
- Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, adding olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced celery, carrots, potato, onion, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Adding Spices and Tomatoes
- Stir in the drained tomatoes, parsley, oregano, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. This step is key for layering flavors in the soup.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the water and chicken broth. Cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil over medium-low heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for an hour.
Step 5: Mashing the Vegetables
- Use a potato masher to gently mash some of the vegetables at the bottom of the pot. This creates a thicker, creamier texture while keeping some vegetable chunks intact.
Step 6: Adding Chicken and Cooking Pasta
- Add the shredded chicken to the soup and let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the ditali pasta according to package instructions.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
- Just before serving, stir the cooked pasta into the soup. Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For the best flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken. The seasoning from the chicken adds depth to the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, feel free to mash more vegetables or add a slurry of water and cornstarch.
- Adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes.
