Italian Chicken Soup (Stracciatella alla Romana) 

Italian Chicken Soup (Stracciatella alla Romana) 🍲🇮🇹

This classic Italian soup is light yet comforting, featuring tender chicken, delicate egg ribbons, fresh herbs, and a savory broth. Ready in 30 minutes!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• For the broth:

  • 6 cups (1.5L) chicken broth (homemade or good-quality store-bought)

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 celery stalk, diced

  • 1 carrot, diced

  • 1 small zucchini, diced (optional)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

• For the stracciatella (egg ribbons):

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• To serve:

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast

  • Extra Parmesan & red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Sauté veggies & chicken:

   • In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrot for 3–4 minutes until softened.

   • Add chicken, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is lightly browned (5 mins).

2. Simmer the broth:

   • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.

   • Add zucchini (if using) in the last 5 minutes.

3. Make the egg ribbons:

   • In a bowl, whisk eggs, Parmesan, parsley, and lemon juice.

   • While stirring the soup in a circular motion, slowly drizzle in the egg mixture. The eggs will cook into delicate ribbons.

4. Serve:

   • Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning.

   • Ladle into bowls and top with more Parmesan, parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve with crusty bread.

Variations & Tips:

• Pastina version: Add 1/2 cup small pasta (like orzo or stelline) when simmering the broth.

• Greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end.

• Lemon-herb twist: Add a strip of lemon zest to the broth while simmering.

This soup is like a hug in a bowl—comforting, nourishing, and full of Italian flair! Would you prefer a creamy version (with a touch of cream) or keep it light? 😊