Brodo di Pollo – Italian Noodle Soup

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s a certain kind of magic in a bowl of homemade Brodo di Pollo. The moment the hot steam touches your face and the gentle aroma of simmered chicken, carrots, and celery fills the room, you know you’re about to be comforted in the best way. This classic Italian noodle soup is all about warmth, simplicity, and healing nourishment.

Traditionally made by slow-cooking a whole chicken with aromatic vegetables and herbs, Brodo di Pollo isn’t just a soup; it’s a time-honored remedy for chilly evenings, tender stomachs, or moments when you just need a hug in a bowl. Whether you grew up with this recipe or are trying it for the first time, its humble elegance is bound to win your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Brodo di Pollo

This Italian noodle soup is incredibly soothing and versatile. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be prepared with pantry basics and a few fresh ingredients. You can customize it with your favorite noodles or even rice, and the flavor deepens beautifully the longer it simmers. Brodo di Pollo isn’t fussy or flashy, but it always delivers comfort and satisfaction.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use for Brodo di Pollo?

While small pasta like ditalini or stelline are common in traditional versions, any thin or short pasta works well. Angel hair broken into small pieces, egg noodles, or even orzo can soak up the savory broth wonderfully. If you’re going gluten-free, a quality rice noodle or gluten-free pasta will still yield delicious results.

Ingredients for the Brodo di Pollo

To build a deeply flavorful broth, every ingredient plays an important role. This is not a place for shortcuts – using fresh, whole ingredients makes all the difference in the richness of your soup.

• Whole Chicken
• Carrots
• Celery Stalks
• Yellow Onion
• Garlic Cloves
• Fresh Parsley
• Bay Leaves
• Whole Peppercorns
• Salt
• Olive Oil
• Pasta of Choice

How To Make the Brodo di Pollo

Step 1: Build the Broth Base

In a large stockpot, drizzle a bit of olive oil and add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until they begin to soften and smell fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Simmer

Place the whole chicken into the pot and cover with cold water. Add bay leaves, garlic cloves, peppercorns, parsley, and a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours.

Step 3: Strain and Shred

Remove the chicken and strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve. Discard the solids. Shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Return the strained broth to the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until just tender. Add the shredded chicken back in and simmer a few more minutes.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Adjust salt as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot, maybe with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few fresh parsley leaves.

Serving and Storing This Italian Soup Classic

This recipe serves about 6 people generously, especially if you include a slice of rustic bread or a simple green salad on the side. Brodo di Pollo is best enjoyed hot and fresh, but it also stores beautifully. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta may continue to soak up broth, so consider storing it separately or adding a splash of water when reheating.

What to Serve With Brodo di Pollo?

Crusty Italian Bread

Perfect for dipping into the golden broth and wiping the bowl clean.

Simple Arugula Salad

The peppery bite of arugula with lemon and olive oil balances the richness of the soup.

Roasted Garlic Crostini

Adds crunch and a bold garlic flavor that pairs well with the chicken.

Grilled Cheese Panini

A melty, crispy sandwich is the ideal cozy companion for soup nights.

Marinated Olives and Cheese Plate

A Mediterranean-inspired starter that makes any soup night feel special.

Steamed Asparagus with Lemon

Light and bright, this vegetable side is a welcome contrast.

Tomato Bruschetta

The acidity and freshness of tomato balances the comforting flavors of the soup.

A Glass of Pinot Grigio

If you want to keep things Italian, a light white wine complements the broth beautifully.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If comforting soups like Brodo di Pollo are your jam, check out these warming dishes next:

• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup for a hearty and indulgent dinner.
• Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup with Mediterranean brightness.
• Hawaiian Style Chicken Long Rice Soup for island-inspired comfort.
• Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono for a citrusy, creamy twist.
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice if you’re feeling like a comforting one-bowl alternative.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can revisit it when you’re in need of a cozy classic.

And if you make this soup, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go traditional or try a noodle twist? Maybe you added extra herbs or simmered it even longer? Let’s swap ideas and share the warmth.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next cozy favorite.

Conclusion

Brodo di Pollo isn’t just an Italian noodle soup. It’s a warm, healing embrace in a bowl that reminds us food can be both simple and deeply nourishing. Whether you’re making it for someone you love or just for yourself, this timeless recipe will always feel like home.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?