Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Noodle Soup, or Brodo di Pollo, is a classic chicken soup that’s deeply flavorful, comforting, and nourishing. Made with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and delicate noodles all simmered in a rich homemade broth, this timeless recipe is perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or whenever you need a warm bowl of Italian soul food.

ingredients

Italian Noodle Soup (Brodo di Pollo) 10 Italian Noodle Soup, or Brodo di Pollo, is a classic chicken soup that's deeply flavorful, comforting, and nourishing. Made with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and delicate noodles all simmered in a rich homemade broth, this timeless recipe is perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or whenever you need a warm bowl of Italian soul food.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

whole chicken or bone-in chicken piecescarrots (chopped)celery stalks (chopped)onion (quartered)garlic clovesbay leavesfresh parsleywhole black peppersaltacini di pepe or small pasta (like orzo or pastina)parmesan cheese (for serving)olive oil (optional)

directions

Place the chicken in a large stockpot and cover with water (about 10-12 cups).

Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, parsley, pepper, and salt.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming foam occasionally.

Remove chicken and strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve. Discard solids.

Return the broth to the pot and bring to a simmer.

Add small pasta and cook until tender (about 6-8 minutes).

Meanwhile, shred the cooked chicken, discarding skin and bones.

Add shredded chicken back to the soup and adjust seasoning to taste.

Ladle into bowls and top with grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use store-bought broth and rotisserie chicken for a quick version.

Add spinach or escarole for extra greens.

Stir in a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish.

Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version.

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for mild heat.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Pasta may absorb broth—add extra broth or water when reheating.Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot.Freeze broth and chicken separately for up to 3 months; add fresh pasta when serving.

FAQs

What does “brodo di pollo” mean?

It means “chicken broth” in Italian—this soup is a traditional way to enjoy it.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then strain and add pasta before serving.

Do I need to use a whole chicken?

No, bone-in thighs or drumsticks work well too for rich flavor.

What type of pasta is best?

Acini di pepe, pastina, or orzo work perfectly in this soup.

Can I use just chicken breasts?

Bone-in dark meat gives better flavor, but breasts can be used if preferred.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it’s even better the next day. Just store the pasta separately to avoid mushiness.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes—full of protein, vitamins from the veggies, and hydrating broth.

Can I skip straining the broth?

Straining gives a clear, smooth broth, but it’s optional.

Do Italians really eat this when sick?

Yes, it’s a go-to remedy in many Italian households.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—make extra broth and freeze for future use.

Conclusion

Italian Noodle Soup (Brodo di Pollo) is a timeless comfort dish rooted in tradition and love. With its rich homemade broth, tender chicken, and soft pasta, it brings warmth and nourishment to the table. Whether made from scratch or simplified for busy nights, this soup is a cozy staple you’ll return to again and again.