Chicken Escarole Soup is a comforting classic that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This hearty soup combines tender chicken with the slightly bitter, leafy escarole, creating a perfect balance that’s both nourishing and delicious. It’s a favorite in Italian-American kitchens and a go-to for cozy dinners.
We love how simple ingredients come together to make something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal or a way to use up fresh greens, this soup fits the bill. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste.
Let’s dive into a recipe that’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with wholesome goodness. Chicken Escarole Soup is sure to become one of our trusted comfort food staples.
Ingredients
To craft a delicious Chicken Escarole Soup, we rely on fresh, wholesome ingredients that bring out the perfect balance between tender chicken and slightly bitter escarole. Here is everything we need to prepare the base, chicken, and seasonings for this comforting dish.
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for subtle heat)
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Seasoning and Garnishes
- 1 large head escarole, washed and roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, for final seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, to brighten flavors)
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soup Base | Olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, broth | Creates rich and flavorful foundation |
| Chicken | Chicken breasts or thighs, Italian seasoning | Tender protein with balanced flavor |
| Seasoning and Garnish | Escarole, Parmesan, parsley, lemon juice | Adds freshness, slight bitterness, and zest |
With these ingredients ready, we prepare to build a nutritious and flavorful Chicken Escarole Soup that warms every spoonful with satisfying goodness.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken Escarole Soup efficiently and with ease, we rely on specific tools that ensure each step is smooth and our flavors develop perfectly. Below is a detailed list of the essential kitchen equipment that will help us achieve the best results.
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup. The heavy base ensures even heat distribution preventing burning and promoting thorough cooking.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring the aromatic base of olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery without damaging the pot’s surface.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
Used for precise chopping of escarole, vegetables, and trimming the chicken. A sharp blade makes prep faster and safer.
- Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients. We recommend a large board to accommodate all our chopping needs.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy in measuring broth, olive oil, and seasonings like Italian herbs and salt is essential for flavor balance.
- Ladle
Facilitates serving the soup cleanly and efficiently, preserving the presentation.
- Colander (Optional)
Useful for rinsing the escarole thoroughly to remove grit or dirt before adding it to the soup.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Dutch Oven | Sautéing vegetables, simmering soup |
| Wooden Spoon / Spatula | Stirring ingredients gently |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Chopping vegetables, cutting chicken |
| Cutting Board | Stable surface for all prep work |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate measurement of liquids and seasonings |
| Ladle | Serving soup |
| Colander (Optional) | Washing escarole |
Prep Work
Before we begin cooking our Chicken Escarole Soup, thorough preparation of the main ingredients will ensure a smooth cooking process and maximize the flavors in every spoonful.
Prepping the Chicken
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference for lean or juicy meat.
- Pat dry the chicken pieces with paper towels to promote even browning.
- Season both sides generously with Italian herbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Cut into bite-sized chunks or strips for quicker cooking and easy serving.
Tip: Using thighs adds richness, while breasts keep the soup light.
Washing and Chopping Escarole
- Rinse the escarole under cold running water to remove grit trapped between leaves. If needed, soak briefly in a large bowl of cold water and swish gently.
- Drain well using a colander or salad spinner to avoid excess water diluting the soup.
- Trim the base of the escarole head to separate leaves.
- Chop the leaves coarsely into 1- to 2-inch wide strips for tender yet textured bites in the soup.
Note: Escarole’s slight bitterness will mellow when cooked, balancing the savory chicken broth.
Preparing Other Vegetables
| Vegetable | Preparation Steps | Purpose in Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Onion | Peel and finely dice | Adds aromatic base flavor |
| Garlic | Peel and mince | Enhances savory depth |
| Carrots | Peel and dice into small cubes | Contributes sweetness and texture |
| Celery | Wash and chop into small pieces | Adds subtle earthiness and crunch |
- Use a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board for clean, uniform cuts.
- Measure and set aside all vegetables to add sequentially during cooking.
With these prep steps complete, we set the stage for an effortlessly delicious Chicken Escarole Soup that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to prepare our Chicken Escarole Soup with rich flavor and satisfying texture. Each stage builds depth, ensuring a comforting bowl every time.
Making the Broth
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Once shimmering, add 1 cup chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup diced carrots, and 1/2 cup diced celery.
- Sauté the vegetables for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Pour in 8 cups chicken broth and increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
“The secret to a rich broth lies in patiently building the flavor base from sautéed vegetables.”
Cooking the Chicken
- While the broth simmers, season 1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Chicken Weight | 1 pound |
| Seasoning | 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, pepper |
| Cooking Time | 5 minutes each side |
| Doneness Temperature | 165°F (74°C) internal |
Adding Escarole and Other Ingredients
- Add the 3 cups chopped escarole to the simmering broth.
- Stir and let it cook for 3–5 minutes until the escarole wilts and softens.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes to warm through and combine flavors.
- Optionally, squeeze 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve hot with a garnish of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Tip: Adding escarole last keeps its slightly bitter flavor vibrant yet tender, balancing the broth’s richness perfectly.
By following these steps, we create the perfect harmony of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic broth in our signature Chicken Escarole Soup.
Directions for Serving
Serving Chicken Escarole Soup with care enhances its comforting flavors and creates a memorable dining experience. Let’s explore the best ways to present this hearty dish and complementary side choices to round out the meal.
How to Serve Chicken Escarole Soup
Serve the soup hot, ideally straight from the pot to maintain its rich aroma and warmth. Use a ladle to portion into deep bowls, allowing each serving to showcase the tender chicken pieces, bright green escarole, and the fragrant broth.
- Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few chopped fresh parsley leaves to add color and depth.
- For an optional bright contrast, drizzle a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice over the soup just before serving to enhance the flavors with a subtle tang.
Consider placing warm crusty bread or garlic toasts alongside the soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up the savory broth. Use wide-rimmed bowls to hold generous servings and place on matching plates to catch any drips.
Suggested Side Dishes
Pairing Chicken Escarole Soup with thoughtfully selected sides elevates the entire meal while keeping it light and balanced. Here are our top recommendations:
| Side Dish | Description | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Crispy toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter. | Serve warm for dipping into the soup’s rich broth. |
| Simple Green Salad | Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate. | Place salad bowls alongside the soup plates. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs. | Serve in a separate dish to complement the soup. |
| Parmesan Risotto | Creamy risotto with Parmesan and herbs. | Offer a small portion as a luxurious side. |
| Lemon Herb Polenta Cakes | Crispy polenta cakes flavored with lemon zest and herbs. | Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired. |
By integrating these complementary dishes, we create a complete dining experience that highlights the nourishing qualities and rich taste of our Chicken Escarole Soup.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To keep our Chicken Escarole Soup fresh and flavorful, following the right make-ahead and storage methods is essential. Here’s how we can ensure every spoonful remains satisfying whenever we reheat it.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare in advance: We can fully cook the soup up to 3 days before serving. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.
- Separate garnishes: Hold off on adding Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley until serving to maintain their texture and taste.
- Infuse flavors: When reheating, give the soup a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes to revive the herbaceous notes and meld the flavors beautifully.
Refrigeration Guidelines
| Timeframe | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 days | Airtight container | Store in the coldest part of the fridge |
| Reheat Method | Stovetop or microwave | Heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally |
Freezing Tips
- Freeze for longer storage: We can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
- Separate portions: Divide soup into meal-sized airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Leave space for expansion: Fill containers about ¾ full to prevent cracking during the freeze.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Cool completely | Prevents ice crystals and sogginess |
| Portion & package | Choose appropriately sized containers |
| Label & date | Helps track freshness and rotation |
Thawing and Reheating
- Thaw safely: Move frozen soup to the refrigerator overnight.
- Quick thaw option: Place sealed container in a bowl of cold water, changing water every 30 minutes.
- Gentle reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
“Our best tip: Add fresh greens like escarole last during reheating for a crisp texture that tastes just made.”
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we keep our Chicken Escarole Soup vibrant, convenient, and delicious anytime we enjoy it again.
Conclusion
Chicken Escarole Soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its blend of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it a versatile choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
With a straightforward preparation process and customizable options, this soup fits perfectly into our busy lives without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
By keeping a batch on hand, we’re always ready to enjoy a nourishing meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Escarole Soup?
Chicken Escarole Soup is a comforting Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken with slightly bitter escarole in a flavorful broth, perfect for cozy meals.
What are the main ingredients in Chicken Escarole Soup?
The soup mainly includes olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, boneless chicken, escarole, and garnishes like Parmesan cheese, parsley, and optional lemon juice.
What kitchen tools do I need to make this soup?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, a ladle, and optionally a colander for rinsing escarole.
How do I prepare the escarole for the soup?
Wash escarole thoroughly, drain well, and chop into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the soup for the best texture and flavor.
Can I customize the soup with other herbs or spices?
Yes, the soup is versatile and can be enhanced with various herbs like thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
How should I serve Chicken Escarole Soup?
Serve hot in deep bowls, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley. You can also add a drizzle of lemon juice and pair it with garlic bread or a simple salad.
Can I make this soup ahead of time and store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to three days in advance in an airtight container or freeze for up to three months. Add garnishes right before serving.
How do I reheat the soup without losing its flavor?
Reheat gently on the stovetop and add fresh escarole last to maintain its crisp texture and preserve the soup’s freshness.
Is Chicken Escarole Soup healthy?
Yes, it’s made with wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables and lean chicken, making it a nutritious and light yet satisfying meal option.
What dishes pair well with Chicken Escarole Soup?
Good pairings include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, simple green salad, Parmesan risotto, and lemon herb polenta cakes for a balanced meal.