Ah, Wedding Soup-a dish that’s warm, comforting, and steeped in tradition. Don’t be misled by the name; this soup isn’t reserved for weddings alone! It’s an Italian-American classic known for its delicate broth, tender meat, fresh greens, and tiny pasta pearls. Imagine a bowl that’s light yet hearty, elegant yet unpretentious-perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a special gathering.
- Why it’s called ’wedding soup’: The name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata”, meaning “married soup”. It symbolizes the marriage of flavors-savory broth, rich meat, and vibrant greens all working in delicious harmony.
- Why chicken?: While traditional versions often use beef meatballs, using chicken makes the soup lighter, healthier, and equally flavorful. It’s perfect if you want something comforting without feeling heavy.
- What to expect: Tender chicken meatballs, flavorful broth, delicate pasta, and nutrient-packed greens, all in one satisfying bowl.
By the end of this recipe, you’ll be equipped to make a soup that tastes restaurant-quality but is completely homey, warm, and nourishing.
Wedding Soup With Chicken Recipe
Here’s the full breakdown of how to bring this Italian-American favorite to life. This recipe focuses on simplicity while still delivering that classic, comforting flavor.
Ingredients Needed
To make this soup truly shine, quality ingredients are key. Here’s a detailed list:
For The Chicken Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken (preferably thigh for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works beautifully for texture)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For The Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade is ideal; low-sodium works well too)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup small pasta (acini di pepe, orzo, or even tiny shells)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step by step, let’s build the perfect bowl:
-
Prepare The Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Roll into small, bite-sized meatballs-about 1 inch in diameter.
-
Cook The Meatballs
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat.
- Gently sear the meatballs until lightly golden (they don’t need to cook all the way through). Remove and set aside.
-
Make The Soup Base
- In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and thyme, then bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Cook The Pasta
- Add your tiny pasta to the simmering broth and cook according to package directions (usually 6-8 minutes).
-
Add Meatballs And Greens
- Carefully return the chicken meatballs to the pot.
- Add chopped spinach or escarole and simmer until meatballs are cooked through and greens are tender (about 5 minutes).
-
Season And Serve
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
- Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding why each ingredient matters elevates the dish:
- Chicken: Lean but flavorful, especially thighs, which remain tender and juicy.
- Breadcrumbs & Parmesan: Bind the meatballs while adding a subtle depth of flavor.
- Small pasta: Provides that quintessential bite without overwhelming the soup.
- Greens: Escarole or spinach adds texture, color, and a slight bitterness to balance the richness.
- Broth: The soul of the soup-homemade yields the best depth, but store-bought low-sodium is a convenient option.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overmix meatballs: Overmixing can make them dense instead of tender. Gentle hands are key.
- Simmer, don’t boil: A gentle simmer preserves the delicate flavor and prevents meatballs from falling apart.
- Fresh herbs matter: Parsley and thyme brighten the soup more than dried versions alone.
- Taste as you go: Broth saltiness can vary. Adjust seasoning at the end for perfect balance.
- Freeze extras: This soup freezes beautifully without losing texture-just add greens fresh when reheating.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas:
- Mini meatball variety: Mix chicken and turkey for slightly different textures.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace meatballs with hearty mushroom ’balls’ or chickpea balls.
- Pasta swap: Try quinoa, pearl couscous, or tiny rice for a gluten-free option.
- Broth enhancement: Add a splash of white wine or a Parmesan rind while simmering for extra umami.
- Spicy kick: Red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil adds a subtle heat.
Final Words
Wedding soup with chicken is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. It combines tender homemade meatballs, nourishing greens, and a flavorful broth that warms both the body and the soul. The beauty lies in its simplicity: wholesome ingredients, easy steps, and a taste that feels like home.
This soup is versatile, forgiving, and utterly satisfying-perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave comfort in a bowl.
FAQs
What Is Wedding Soup With Chicken?
Wedding soup with chicken is a traditional Italian-American dish typically made with chicken, meatballs, vegetables like spinach and carrots, and small pasta. It is often served at weddings, hence the name, but is enjoyed as a comforting soup year-round.
Can I Make Wedding Soup With Chicken Ahead Of Time?
Yes, wedding soup with chicken can be made ahead of time. The soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving if you’re preparing the soup in advance.
What Type Of Pasta Should I Use In Wedding Soup With Chicken?
The traditional pasta used in wedding soup is small, such as acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini. These small pasta shapes absorb the broth well and complement the other ingredients.
What Vegetables Are Typically In Wedding Soup With Chicken?
The most common vegetables in wedding soup with chicken are spinach and carrots. The spinach is usually wilted in the broth, while carrots are diced and added for a touch of sweetness and color.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Or Beef Instead Of Chicken In Wedding Soup?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken if you prefer. However, using chicken gives the soup a lighter, more delicate flavor. If you swap the chicken for another meat, it may alter the overall taste of the soup.
How Do I Make The Meatballs For Wedding Soup With Chicken?
For the meatballs, mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roll the mixture into small balls and either bake or fry them before adding them to the soup. Make sure they are cooked through before serving.
Is Wedding Soup With Chicken Gluten-free?
Traditional wedding soup with chicken is not gluten-free due to the use of regular pasta and breadcrumbs in the meatballs. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs or an alternative like crushed gluten-free crackers.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Wedding Soup With Chicken?
Leftover wedding soup with chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftover pasta, it’s best to store it separately from the soup to prevent it from becoming soggy. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Other Herbs Or Spices To Wedding Soup With Chicken?
Yes, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of wedding soup. Common additions include garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a mild heat if desired.
What Should I Serve With Wedding Soup With Chicken?
Wedding soup with chicken is often served as a starter or light meal. It pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the soup.