Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup Recipe: Easy & Delicious Guide

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup, especially one that carries the rich, nostalgic flavors of a cherished family recipe. Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup is one such classic, passed down through generations and known for its hearty ingredients and soul-soothing aroma.

Whether you’re nursing a cold, craving a wholesome meal on a chilly day, or simply want to enjoy a homemade taste of tradition, this recipe will not disappoint. It balances tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that brings everything together beautifully.

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones around the dinner table.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of creating Mama Leone’s iconic chicken soup, share some handy tips to make it your own, and offer serving ideas that turn this humble soup into a satisfying meal.

Ready to bring a little warmth and love into your kitchen? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup isn’t just any chicken soup. It’s a comforting blend of fresh, wholesome ingredients simmered slowly to develop a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from store-bought versions.

The broth is rich but clear, making it both nourishing and light on the stomach.

You’ll appreciate how versatile this soup is — perfect as a starter for a family dinner or as a main on its own with some crusty bread. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or fresh vegetables from your fridge.

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and easy enough to prepare on a weeknight, but special enough for weekend gatherings.

Finally, this recipe carries the warmth of a homemade meal, evoking memories and creating new ones. It’s a genuine taste of Mama Leone’s kitchen — simple, honest, and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cleaned and cut into pieces
• 10 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 parsnip, peeled and cut into chunks (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup egg noodles or small pasta (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Strainer or slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Soup bowls for serving
• Ladle

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
2. Make the broth: Place the chicken pieces in a large stockpot or Dutch oven and cover with 10 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
3. Add aromatics and seasonings: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and add the onion quarters, garlic, bay leaf, whole peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer gently, uncovered, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour to develop a flavorful broth.
4. Prepare the vegetables: While the broth simmers, peel and slice the carrots, celery, and parsnip (if using). Set aside.
5. Remove chicken and strain broth: After simmering, carefully remove the chicken pieces and set them on a plate to cool. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another large pot or bowl to remove the solids and aromatics.
6. Shred the chicken: When cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones from the chicken pieces and shred the meat into bite-sized chunks. Discard bones and skin.
7. Sauté vegetables: In the original pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots, celery, and parsnip. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
8. Add strained broth back: Pour the strained broth back into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer.
9. Cook noodles: If using noodles, add them now and cook according to package instructions, usually 6-8 minutes, until tender.
10. Add shredded chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
11. Season soup: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if you want a fresh, bright note.
12. Finish and serve: Remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side.

Tips & Variations

“For deeper flavor, roast the whole chicken with some herbs before simmering it in water to make the broth.”

To elevate the soup, you can add diced potatoes or sweet corn for extra heartiness. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute noodles with rice or quinoa.

For an herbal twist, fresh thyme or rosemary can be added during the simmering stage.

If you want a quicker version, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, adding it at the end of cooking with the vegetables and broth. For a lighter version, use only chicken breast and skip the skin.

Interested in other comforting soups? Check out our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or try the Asian Noodle Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Meals for a flavorful twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Mama Leone’s chicken soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for a comforting meal.

A simple green salad, like the fresh and easy Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, balances the richness of the soup perfectly.

For extra heartiness, add a side of roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish. In colder months, a hot cup of herbal tea alongside this soup can make for a cozy and restorative dining experience.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months, making this soup great for meal prep and busy weeknights.

Conclusion

Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe — it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Its timeless combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth makes it a staple for any home cook looking to create comfort and nourishment.

Whether you’re new to making homemade soups or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

By following this guide, you’ll not only prepare a delicious, heartwarming meal but also carry on a tradition that celebrates family and the joy of cooking from scratch. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make this soup truly your own.

And if you’re interested in expanding your recipe collection, be sure to explore other savory and wholesome dishes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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