Soups & Salads

Italian Wedding Soup

Name: Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup small pasta shapes, such as acini di pepe or ditalini

By Theo Delacroix · June 19, 2026 · Soups & Salads

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves6

As a registered dietitian and home cook, I've always been fascinated by the art of creating nourishing meals that bring people together. One of my favorite comfort foods is Italian Wedding Soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.

I still remember the first time I made Italian Wedding Soup for my family. It was a chilly winter evening, and we all gathered around the table, eager to taste the fruits of my labor. The aroma of simmering vegetables and tender chicken filled the air, and the first spoonful was like a warm hug in a bowl.

What makes this recipe special is the combination of lean protein, high-fiber vegetables, and whole-food carbohydrates, all carefully balanced to create a dish that's not only delicious but also good for you. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or a intimate gathering, Italian Wedding Soup is sure to become a new favorite.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of creating a authentic Italian Wedding Soup that's easy to make and packed with nutrients. From the initial prep to the final garnish, I'll share my tips and tricks for making this dish a success.

So, let's get started and create a memorable Italian Wedding Soup that will leave your loved ones wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal supervision, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The combination of lean protein, high-fiber vegetables, and whole-food carbohydrates makes this dish a nutritious and balanced option for any meal.
Italian Wedding Soup is a crowd-pleaser, and its hearty and comforting nature makes it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or substitutions to make it your own.
This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed, making it a great option for busy lifestyles.
The recipe is budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients and minimizing food waste.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Italian Wedding Soup lies in the balance of flavors and textures. By using a combination of sautéed vegetables, lean chicken, and whole-food carbohydrates, we create a dish that's not only delicious but also nutritious.

The cooking technique is also crucial, as it allows us to extract the natural sweetness from the vegetables and the tender flavor from the chicken. By simmering the soup gently, we can break down the connective tissues in the meat and vegetables, resulting in a rich and creamy broth.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of layers of seasoning. By adding aromatics, herbs, and spices at different stages of the cooking process, we can create a depth of flavor that's hard to achieve with a single seasoning blend.

Finally, the resting time is essential, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly, resulting in a more satisfying and filling meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Italian Wedding Soup, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. Look for fresh, high-quality produce, and opt for lean protein sources like chicken breast or thighs. Don't be afraid to get creative with your ingredients and add your own favorite vegetables or seasonings to make the dish your own.

Here are the key players in our Italian Wedding Soup recipe:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighsChoose lean protein sources like chicken breast or thighs, and opt for boneless and skinless for easier handling and cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for sautéing the vegetables and adding flavor to the soup.
1 medium onion, choppedOnions add a sweet and savory flavor to the soup, and can be sautéed until caramelized for added depth.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a fundamental ingredient in Italian cooking, and adds a pungent flavor to the soup.
2 medium carrots, choppedCarrots add a pop of color and sweetness to the soup, and can be cooked until tender for a comforting texture.
2 stalks celery, choppedCelery adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the soup, and can be cooked until tender for a satisfying crunch.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoesDiced tomatoes add a burst of juicy flavor to the soup, and can be used in place of fresh tomatoes for convenience.
4 cups chicken brothChicken broth is the base of the soup, and can be made from scratch or used store-bought for convenience.
1 teaspoon dried basilBasil adds a bright and herbaceous flavor to the soup, and can be used fresh or dried for convenience.
1 teaspoon dried oreganoOregano adds a pungent and earthy flavor to the soup, and can be used fresh or dried for convenience.
Salt and pepper to tasteSeason the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
1 cup small pasta shapes, such as acini di pepe or ditaliniSmall pasta shapes add a fun and playful texture to the soup, and can be cooked until al dente for a satisfying bite.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerWooden spoon or silicone spatula

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

1
Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into medium-sized pieces, and mince the garlic cloves.
2
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the chopped carrots and celery, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5
Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, and dried oregano, and stir to combine.
6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the soup has thickened slightly.
7
Add the small pasta shapes and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
8
Add the chicken breast or thighs, and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 5-7 minutes.
9
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
10
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and lean protein sources, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Don't overcook the soup, as it can become mushy and unappetizing.
Add the pasta shapes towards the end of cooking time, so they don't become overcooked.
Use a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, to add depth and complexity to the soup.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as dried herbs or spices, to find the combination that works best for you.
Consider making a batch of chicken broth from scratch, using chicken bones and vegetables, for added flavor and nutrition.
For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time.
To make the soup more substantial, add some cooked sausage or bacon for added protein and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the soup, which can result in a mushy and unappetizing texture.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the soup.
Not seasoning the soup adequately, which can result in a bland and unappetizing flavor.
Adding the pasta shapes too early, which can result in overcooked and mushy pasta.
Not using enough liquid, which can result in a thick and unappetizing soup.
Not simmering the soup long enough, which can result in a soup that's not fully flavored and textured.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some cooked sausage or bacon for added protein and flavor.
Use different types of pasta shapes, such as elbow macaroni or shells, for a change of pace.
Add some diced bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrients.
Use fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, for added flavor and freshness.
Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamier soup.
Use chicken broth made from scratch, using chicken bones and vegetables, for added flavor and nutrition.
Add some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and nutrition.

What to Serve With Italian Wedding Soup

Serve the Italian Wedding Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Consider serving with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Some other ideas for serving the soup include:

Crusty breadGreen saladGrated Parmesan cheeseCooked sausage or baconRoasted vegetablesGarlic bread

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Italian Wedding Soup can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply simmer the soup over low heat until warmed through.

When refrigerating or freezing the soup, make sure to cool it to room temperature first to prevent bacterial growth. Use airtight containers to store the soup, and label them with the date and contents.

To freeze the soup, consider portioning it out into individual servings and freezing them in airtight containers or freezer bags. This will make it easier to reheat and serve the soup as needed.

When reheating the soup, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature, and adjust the heating time as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta shapes are best for Italian Wedding Soup?

Small pasta shapes, such as acini di pepe or ditalini, work well in Italian Wedding Soup. They cook quickly and add a fun texture to the soup.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply chop the tomatoes and add them to the soup, cooking until they're tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

How do I make the soup creamier?

You can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time to make the soup creamier. Alternatively, you can puree some of the soup in a blender and then return it to the pot for a creamy texture.

Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply reheat the soup over low heat until warmed through, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

What type of chicken is best for Italian Wedding Soup?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work well in Italian Wedding Soup. You can also use a combination of both for added flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

To prevent the soup from becoming too thick, make sure to use enough liquid and not to overcook the soup. You can also add a bit more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick during reheating.

Can I add other ingredients to the soup?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the soup to suit your taste. Some ideas include diced bell peppers, zucchini, or cooked sausage or bacon.

How do I store the soup safely?

To store the soup safely, make sure to cool it to room temperature first, then refrigerate or freeze it in airtight containers. Label the containers with the date and contents, and use them within a few days or months as needed.

The Full Recipe

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