Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Intro

Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is one of those comforting, soul-warming dishes that somehow feels like a hug in a bowl. You know the kind of food I am talking about—the kind you reach for when the weather dips, when your day feels long, or when you just want something that tastes like home. 

I have cooked a lot of soups in my life, but there is something about this one that hits differently. Maybe it is the simplicity. Maybe it is the rustic charm. Or maybe it is the way the flavors settle so gently, almost tenderly, on the tongue.

As a chef, I love dishes that are uncomplicated yet incredibly expressive. And if you have ever tasted the famous chicken soup at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, you know it has that magic. 

It is not flashy or dramatic. It is not trying to win any beauty pageants. It is simply warm, fragrant, honest comfort food. And sometimes, that is all you need.

That is why I decided to recreate it in my kitchen—and now share it with you. This article is not just a recipe; it is a full guide to understanding the flavors, textures, ingredients, cooking process, and little tips that make this soup special. So grab your spoon, settle in, and let me walk you through my take on this beloved classic.

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What is Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a simple Italian-style chicken soup known for its rich yet clear broth, tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and slightly firm pasta. Unlike many heavy creamy soups, this one leans into the purity of broth. The ingredients do not hide. They shine.

The signature touch is the mix of classic aromatics—onion, celery, carrot, and garlic—paired with chunks of chicken and wide egg noodles. The broth is often deeper in flavor than expected because it simmers long enough to pick up all the goodness from the chicken and vegetables. You get a comforting, savory warmth without it feeling greasy or overly rich.

Another detail that makes it special is the simplicity of seasoning. Instead of overwhelming the soup with spices, Carrabba’s keeps it pure: salt, pepper, herbs, and love. This soup tastes clean, honest, and soothing—like something your mom or grandmother would make if they cooked Italian-style comfort food.

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Equipment List

You do not need anything fancy for this recipe. Basic kitchen tools are more than enough:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  
• Sharp knife
  
• Cutting board
  
• Wooden spoon
  
• Ladle
  
• Strainer (optional, for cleaning broth)
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  
• Small skillet (if you want to lightly saute vegetables first)
  

That is it. This is a homey soup, so we keep things simple.

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Ingredients

For the most authentic flavor, use the freshest ingredients you can find. This makes a huge difference.

For the Soup Base

• 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks work best)
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 1 medium onion, chopped
  
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
  
• 3 large carrots, sliced
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 10 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  
• 1 bay leaf
  
• Salt and black pepper to taste
  

For the Noodles and Finishing Touches

• 2 to 2.5 cups wide egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
  
• Fresh parsley for garnish
  
• Lemon wedges (optional, but lovely)
  
• Extra olive oil for drizzling
  

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Instructions

Step 1: Build the Broth

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their aroma. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add your chicken pieces and pour in water or broth. Add thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 45 to 50 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and the broth turns rich.

Step 2: Remove and Shred the Chicken

Take the chicken pieces out using tongs and place them on a plate. Let them cool a little before shredding. Remove bones and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to package instructions. Two minutes before the noodles finish cooking, add the shredded chicken back to the pot.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste the broth. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaf.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if you want a brighter flavor.

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Why This Soup Works

Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe works because it respects each ingredient. Nothing is rushed. The broth gets time to build flavor. The chicken adds depth. The vegetables release sweetness. The noodles add body.

There is harmony in simplicity. This is not a soup trying to be fancy. It is a soup that wants to nourish you.

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Flavor Profile: What to Expect

Let me help you imagine the experience:

• The broth is clear but full-bodied
  
• The chicken is tender and silky
  
• The vegetables are soft but not mushy
  
• The noodles soak up flavor without falling apart
  
• The herbs give a hint of freshness
  

It is savory, comforting, warm, and gently seasoned. Nothing sharp. Nothing heavy. Just comfort.

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Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Tips for Best Results

Here are some tried and tested notes from my kitchen:

• Use bone-in chicken for richer broth.
  
• Do not rush the simmering stage. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes.
  
• If you want clearer broth, strain it before adding the noodles.
  
• Cook noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers to prevent sogginess.
  
• Use fresh herbs for garnish to elevate the flavor.
  

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Variations You Can Try

You can customize this soup in many ways:

• Add spinach toward the end
  
• Add cooked cannellini beans
  
• Add sliced mushrooms
  
• Swap egg noodles for orzo
  
• Add a splash of cream for richness
  
• Add chili flakes for a subtle heat
  

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Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Meal Prep

This soup makes an excellent make-ahead meal. It stores well and tastes even better the next day. Just keep the noodles separate until serving.

Store broth and chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Noodles can be stored separately for 2 days.

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Serving Suggestions

Here are some pairings that work beautifully:

• Warm crusty bread
  
• Garlic butter rolls
  
• Light Caesar salad
  
• Toasted baguette with olive oil
  

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Why This Recipe Matters

Carrabba’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is not just a dish. It is the kind of food that slows you down. It connects you to home, comfort, and warmth. As a chef, I love dishes that remind people of the power of simple cooking. Not everything needs to be complicated to be memorable.

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Final Thoughts

If you love heartwarming soups that taste like care, patience, and simple joy all in one bowl, you will fall in love with this recipe. Cooking this at home always reminds me why I became a chef in the first place—to create food that makes people feel something.

Whether you are sick, stressed, or simply craving something warm and nostalgic, this bowl will not let you down.

More Soup Recipes:

• Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup Recipe
• Frisch’s Vegetable Soup Recipe