As the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup to warm the soul. The rich aroma of tender chicken mingling with freshly sautéed vegetables fills the air, instantly transforming my kitchen into a cozy retreat. I crafted this recipe out of a need for comfort on those dreary days when nothing but a nourishing bowl of soup could do.

Not only does this hearty chicken soup provide the warmth we crave, but it boasts health-conscious ingredients like fat-free evaporated milk and fresh spinach, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of creamy broth and earthy herbs, particularly the hint of tarragon, that dances across your palate. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in, serving up to twelve people, ensuring every bowl is filled with love. So grab your apron, and let’s take a dive into the wholesome flavors of Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup—your taste buds will thank you!

Why is Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: This soup is the ultimate cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean chicken, it’s a heart-healthy option you can feel good about.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients mean you’ll be savoring homemade goodness in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Taste: Serving up to twelve, it’s ideal for family gatherings or sharing with friends.
Endless Adaptability: Want to mix it up? Try adding different veggies or adjusting the spices for a personalized touch.

Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup Ingredients

• All you need for a warm hug in a bowl!

For the Soup Base

Boneless skinless chicken breasts – Your main protein source; ensure they’re tender by cooking thoroughly.
Kosher salt – Enhances the flavor; seasoning the chicken before baking elevates taste.
Black pepper – Adds a hint of heat; use freshly cracked for the best results.
Vegetable oil – Great for sautéing the vegetables evenly.
Butter – Infuses richness into the soup base while helping with sautéing.
Onions (diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions are recommended for this dish.
Celery (diced) – Brings crunch and balances flavors; fresh stalks provide the best texture.
Minced garlic – Delivers aromatic flavor; fresh is best for a robust taste.

For the Herbs and Spices

Dried tarragon – A lovely herb that complements chicken beautifully; thyme is a suitable substitute.
Dried oregano – Adds earthy notes; you can use other Italian herbs if you prefer.
Sweet Hungarian paprika – This ingredient gives color and a mild sweetness; it’s essential for authenticity.

For the Thickening

All-purpose flour – Acts as a thickening agent; gluten-free flour works as a substitute if needed.

For the Soup Liquid

Fat-free chicken broth (8 cups) – The base of your soup; adjust with water for your preference.
Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can) – Bring acidity and body to the dish; opt for low-sodium varieties if desired.
Fat-free evaporated milk (3/4 cup) – Adds creaminess without the fat; use regular cream for an indulgent twist.

For the Fresh Finish

Fresh spinach (2 cups thinly sliced) – Boosts nutrition and adds a pop of color; kale can be used if you’d like a switch-up.

With these ingredients, you’re set to create a delicious Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup that will leave your family asking for seconds!

How to Make Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken breasts bake perfectly, keeping them tender and juicy.
Season Chicken: Take your boneless skinless chicken breasts, and season them generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Cool and Dice: Once baked, allow the chicken to cool slightly before dicing it into bite-sized pieces. Set the chicken aside for later use in the soup.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large stockpot, combine the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Add in the diced onions and celery, sautéing them until they are translucent, which will take about 6-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried tarragon, dried oregano, and sweet Hungarian paprika. Season with a bit more salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
Thicken the Broth: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pot, stirring to combine. Gradually whisk in the fat-free chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, letting it bubble gently.
Combine Ingredients: Once boiling, add the diced tomatoes and fat-free evaporated milk. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Final Touch: Add the diced chicken back to the pot and simmer for another 10 minutes, just until everything is heated through. Lastly, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful recipe and make it truly yours!

Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey for a festive twist that’s perfect anytime of year.
Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced carrots and peas for added nutrition and a pop of color that pleases the eye.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to cater to dietary needs without losing creaminess.
Creamy Upgrade: Swap fat-free evaporated milk with regular cream for a richer, more indulgent broth that’s truly decadent.
Kale Substitute: Replace fresh spinach with kale for a hearty green option that holds up well in the soup.
Heat It Up: Try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that will warm your soul.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an aromatic lift that will complement the chicken beautifully.

With these variations, you can tailor Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup to suit your taste preferences and invite even more warmth into your kitchen!

Expert Tips for Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup

Chicken Check: Ensure chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and tenderness.
Perfectly Seasoned: Don’t skimp on the kosher salt! Properly seasoning your chicken before baking enhances flavor throughout the soup.
Stir Often: When simmering, stir the soup regularly to prevent sticking to the pot and ensure even cooking of all ingredients.
Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Trust me, the extra time is worth it!
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices to your liking! Want more heat? Add a dash of red pepper flakes.
Leftover Love: This soup is perfect for make-ahead meals; it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup any day of the week!

Make Ahead Options

These Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal planning! You can bake and dice the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. The soup base can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure to keep the fresh spinach separate until just before serving to prevent wilting. When you’re ready to enjoy this heartwarming dish, simply reheat the soup on the stove, add the chicken, and stir in the spinach until wilted. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store any leftover chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Freezer: This soup freezes wonderfully! Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion; it lasts up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Reheating: For the best texture, add a little broth or water while reheating, as flavors may intensify during storage. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup!

What to Serve with Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup?

Nothing complements a hearty bowl of soup like delightful sides and flavors that enhance every savory spoonful.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm slice adds texture and soaks up the creamy broth beautifully.
Garlic Herb Butter Toast: Infused with rich garlic and fresh herbs, this toast elevates the comforting vibe of the meal.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light, fresh mix of greens drizzled with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These warm and flaky biscuits bring a cheesy twist, making each bite feel like a cozy hug.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned broccoli or carrots offer a colorful, crunchy contrast, enhancing nutrient intake without overwhelming the palate.
Savory Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice can soak up leftover broth, making for a hearty combination that’s delightful to scoop with your soup.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert featuring sweet and tart flavors can perfectly round off the meal, offering a satisfying sweet treat after savory delights.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a delightful experience every time you serve Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup!

Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for the soup?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless skinless breasts that are pale pink, firm, and have no dark spots. These indicators ensure fresh, top-quality meat that will be tender in your soup.

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken soup?
Store your leftover Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick!

Can I freeze Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup?
Definitely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on medium heat!

What if my soup is too thick after simmering?
Very easy to fix! If your soup becomes too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or water during reheating until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well and let it heat through; it should be back to its creamy, comforting state in no time!

Are there any dietary considerations with this soup recipe?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions, Mama Leone’s Chicken Soup can be easily adapted. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, feel free to swap specific herbs or spices based on personal allergies or preferences. Just make it your own!

Can I use different vegetables in the soup?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! This recipe is flexible; feel free to include other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure that they are diced similarly so they cook evenly. Get creative with your favorite veggies!