Quick Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
Enjoy a hearty and easy Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs recipe perfect for quick dinners and cozy family meals. This delightful soup combines tender chicken meatballs, fresh greens, and a flavorful broth to bring warmth and comfort to your table in no time. The perfect balance of savory and fresh ingredients makes this dish a go-to for any day you crave something nourishing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup saves you time without sacrificing flavor.
- Nutritious Comfort: Packed with lean protein, leafy greens, and wholesome broth, it’s both delicious and nourishing.
- Family Friendly: Mild flavors and tender meatballs make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different veggies or greens to suit your taste or pantry availability.
- Low Fuss Ingredients: Simple staples and fresh herbs create a restaurant-worthy meal at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that brighten the flavor and texture of every spoonful. Each element plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony in this classic soup.
- Ground Chicken: The base for tender, juicy meatballs that cook quickly and stay moist.
- Leafy Greens: Fresh spinach or kale adds vibrant color and a mild earthiness.
- Chicken Broth: Rich and savory, it forms the flavorful foundation of the soup.
- Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics that deepen the broth’s savory profile.
- Egg: Binds the meatball mixture for perfect shape and texture.
- Bread Crumbs: Lightly absorb moisture to keep meatballs tender yet firm.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (vegetal): Adds subtle creaminess inside the meatballs or sprinkled on top.
- Carrots and Celery: Classic soup vegetables that add sweetness and crunch.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley and a pinch of dried oregano or thyme lifts the entire flavor spectrum.
Variations for Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
Experimenting with variations is one of the best parts of making Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs. Whether you want to adapt it for dietary preferences or add your own flair, this recipe welcomes customization with open arms.
- Vegetable Swap: Use Swiss chard or escarole if spinach isn’t available for a different leafy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle warmth.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free options without changing taste.
- Richer Broth: Stir in a splash of grape juice to introduce a mild sweetness that complements the meatballs.
- Dairy-Free: Omit shredded mozzarella cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative or skip it altogether.
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, beaten egg, bread crumbs, minced garlic, finely chopped parsley, shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined plate to keep them from sticking.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add Broth and Bring to Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs such as oregano or thyme. Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Meatballs in the Soup
Carefully drop the chicken meatballs into the simmering broth. Cover the pot and allow the meatballs to cook through for about 10 minutes, turning gently halfway to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Add Greens and Finish Cooking
Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt but remain bright. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
- Light Mixing: Mix meatball ingredients just until combined to keep them tender and fluffy.
- Uniform Size: Make meatballs the same size for even cooking and an appealing presentation.
- Broth Quality: Use a good quality chicken broth for the richest, most comforting flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley at the end brightens the entire soup beautifully.
- Gentle Simmer: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent meatballs from falling apart.
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
Garnishes
Finish with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) and fresh parsley for an inviting look and added flavor boost.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crusty bread or warm garlic rolls to soak up every delicious drop of broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive family dinner, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or mini ceramic crocks, making each portion feel special and cozy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavors.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Place cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent meatballs from drying out.
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for a day before adding them to the soup.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oats, or gluten-free bread crumbs to keep the meatballs tender and flavorful.
Is spinach the best green for this soup?
Spinach is classic, but kale, Swiss chard, or escarole work equally well and add different textures and flavors.
Can I add pasta to Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs?
Definitely! Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or orzo can be added for a heartier soup, just cook them separately and add near the end.
How spicy is this soup?
This soup is generally mild, but you can adjust the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs is a wonderful, comforting meal that fits easily into your weeknight routine yet feels special enough for company. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and adaptable, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and enjoy all the cozy deliciousness it brings to your table!
