Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

Welcome, soup lovers! If you’re a fan of spicy, hearty soups, then this Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup recipe is exactly what you need. This dish, inspired by the bold flavors from Carrabba’s, combines the warmth of Italian-American comfort food with just the right amount of kick to spice up your meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner or the perfect way to use leftover chicken, this soup will become your go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes minimal time and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Packed with herbs and spices, each spoonful delivers a burst of flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup with seasonal vegetables or substitute chicken for plant-based options.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Ideal for using up leftover chicken or vegetables, reducing waste while creating a hearty meal.
• Great for Any Occasion: Serve it as a comforting weeknight dinner or impress guests at gatherings with its rich taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A good-sized pot is crucial for evenly cooking all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 celery ribs – diced
• 1 carrot – peeled & diced
• 1/2 yellow onion – diced
• 1 small russet potato – peeled & diced
• 1/2 red pepper – diced
• 1 (14 oz) can of tomatoes – drained & chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp parsley
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 5 cups water
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded chicken (use rotisserie for a time-saving hack)
• 2 cups cooked ditali pasta
• For a gluten-free option, replace ditali pasta with gluten-free pasta.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken.

How to Make Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by washing and dicing all your vegetables. Make sure they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Once hot, add in the diced onion, celery, and carrot.
3. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the remaining ingredients:
1. Incorporate the diced potato, red pepper, chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
2. Pour in water and chicken broth.
3. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat to low:
1. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Pasta

Once simmered:
1. Stir in shredded chicken and cooked ditali pasta.
2. Allow everything to heat through for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Taste your soup before serving:
1. Adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Serve hot in bowls with fresh bread on the side if desired!

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup! It’s not only satisfying but also has that fiery kick that keeps you coming back for more!

How to Serve Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

Serving your Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup is as important as the cooking process itself. The right presentation can elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This is perfect for dipping into the spicy broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Garnish each bowl with shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a creamy, melty finish.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds a unique presentation and extra flavor from the bread.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light side salad to balance the hearty soup. A simple mixed green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar works well.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Just before serving, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for added richness and depth of flavor.

How to Perfect Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

To make sure your Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips to follow.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds great flavor without extra effort.

• Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less red pepper flakes and add more to taste. You can always increase the spice level later.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For best texture, cook the ditali pasta separately and add it to each bowl just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Let it Simmer: Allow your soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes after adding all ingredients. This helps meld the flavors beautifully.

• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt or additional spices as needed.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup can enhance your meal wonderfully. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements soup perfectly; toast slices of bread with garlic butter until golden brown.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons adds crunch and freshness alongside the warm soup.

3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the spicy soup.

4. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide nutrition and color without overshadowing the main dish.

5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness of the soup wonderfully.

6. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes bring heartiness and pairs well with any soup; try herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, vegetables, or beans make for a filling side that complements the flavors of the soup nicely.

8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables offers protein and fiber while being refreshing against the warm broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Improper preparation can ruin your soup experience. Here are some mistakes to avoid when making Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup.

• Using the wrong vegetables – Substituting or omitting key vegetables like celery or onion can alter the flavor. Stick to the recipe for the best results.
• Not seasoning enough – Failing to season adequately can lead to bland soup. Be generous with your herbs and spices.
• Overcooking the pasta – If you add pasta too soon, it may become mushy. Add it toward the end of cooking for perfect texture.
• Skipping the broth – Using only water can diminish flavor. Always incorporate chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Ignoring leftovers – Letting leftover soup sit too long can affect quality. Store it properly to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before refrigerating.

Freezing Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup – Easy Recipe Guide

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot, heat on medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup.

How spicy is Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup?

The spiciness level is adjustable based on your preference. You can increase or reduce red pepper flakes as desired.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for using leftover chicken, making it both convenient and delicious.

What if I want a vegetarian version of Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup?

Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit shredded chicken for a tasty vegetarian option.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute ditali pasta with any gluten-free pasta of your choice.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Carrabba’s Spicy Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize ingredients based on what you have at home, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor!