Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup

The warmth of this dish comes from more than just temperature it’s from the deep flavors developed in the broth, the perfect balance of vegetables, herbs, and tender chicken, and the comforting sense of home with every spoonful. A staple in Italian-American households, this recipe is inspired by Carrabba’s beloved version of Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, warming up on a chilly evening, or just looking for a soul-satisfying meal, this soup checks all the boxes. It’s nourishing, simple to prepare, and easy to batch cook for future meals. The shredded chicken melds beautifully with the aromatic broth, while the small pasta adds heartiness that makes this dish feel like a complete meal. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan for the ultimate comfort experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 stalks celery, chopped

• 3 carrots, chopped

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in the chopped celery and carrots, cooking for another 5 minutes.

4. Add the chicken thighs to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.

5. Add the diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

7. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup.

8. Add the pasta and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until pasta is cooked al dente.

9. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving and top with grated Parmesan.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup: The Heart of Italian Comfort Cooking

Italian cuisine is beloved across the globe not just for its bold flavors and simplicity but for the deep sense of tradition it brings to the table. Few dishes capture the warmth and history of Italian kitchens like Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup. Inspired by the original family recipe passed down through generations and popularized by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, this soul-soothing bowl of comfort represents more than just food oit represents love, heritage, and nourishment.

In this article, we dive into the story, flavor profile, health benefits, cultural significance, and versatility of this hearty Italian soup. Whether you’re an Italian food aficionado, a home cook exploring new comfort dishes, or someone searching for the ultimate cold-weather meal, Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.

A Taste of Tradition: The Origins of Mama Mandola’s Soup

The name Mama Mandola refers to the matriarch of the Mandola family Damiana Mandola whose recipes inspired many of the dishes at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. The chain was founded by Johnny Carrabba and Damian Mandola, and many of their iconic menu items are family heirlooms.

This soup is more than just a starter; it’s a symbol of familial love. Traditionally, Italian mothers and grandmothers prepare hearty soups like this to warm the bellies of their families after long days or during the colder months. It’s a staple at Sunday dinners, a remedy for colds, and a go-to comfort meal.

The roots of the soup lie in rustic Italian cookingo where nothing goes to waste, and everything is made from scratch. The use of inexpensive, wholesome ingredients like chicken thighs, aromatic vegetables, and pasta in a rich broth reflects this philosophy perfectly.

The Soul of the Soup: Why It Works

Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup stands out from standard chicken soups because of its depth of flavor. It starts with a foundation of sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and celery the “soffritto” that’s the aromatic base of so many Italian dishes. From there, chicken thighs (known for being more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts) are simmered until tender, infusing the broth with richness and body.

Unlike creamy or overly complex soups, Mama Mandola’s relies on simplicity and balance. The addition of diced tomatoes adds a subtle acidity and sweetness, while dried herbs like oregano and basil contribute classic Italian flavor notes. Small pasta like ditalini or orzo gives the soup body and heartiness, turning it into a complete meal in a bowl.

A final flourish of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a fragrant finish. The result? A satisfying, comforting, and utterly crave-worthy dish.

Health Benefits: A Nourishing Powerhouse

While comfort food is often seen as indulgent, this chicken soup provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. It’s rich in lean protein thanks to the chicken thighs, and the combination of carrots, celery, and onions offers antioxidants and essential vitamins.

The broth, especially if you use homemade stock, is known for its healing properties. Chicken soup has long been used as a home remedy for colds and flu, thanks to its hydrating nature and immune-boosting ingredients like garlic and parsley. The pasta adds complex carbs to keep you full longer, making this not just comforting but satisfying.

Additionally, it’s easy to adapt this recipe to different dietary needs. Gluten-free pasta can be substituted, and if you’re aiming for a lower-sodium version, you can control the salt by using homemade broth or low-sodium store-bought options.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

One of the beautiful things about Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup is how it seamlessly fits into any occasion. Serve it as a starter to an Italian meal, or make it the main attraction for a cozy night in.

Pair it with:

• Crusty Bread: Fresh, warm Italian bread or ciabatta is perfect for soaking up the rich broth.

• Simple Salad: A green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup.

• Italian Wine: A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a dry red like Chianti complements the flavors without overpowering them.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving this soup as part of a multi-course Italian dinner. It sets the tone with rustic authenticity and warmth.

Adaptations and Variations

One of the best aspects of this dish is its flexibility. It’s a forgiving recipe that can be tailored to your taste, dietary needs, or what you have in your pantry.

• Add More Veggies: Try incorporating spinach, zucchini, or green beans for added nutrition and color.

• Go Spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.

• Make It Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for cannellini beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based version.

This adaptability makes it an excellent meal-prep option or weeknight dinner that never gets boring.

The Emotional Connection: Why We Keep Coming Back

Food isn’t just about flavor it’s about memory. For many, Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup is a nostalgic dish. Whether it reminds you of a loved one who cooked something similar or brings back memories of dining at Carrabba’s, the emotional connection to this meal runs deep.

It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations, scribbled into family cookbooks, and pulled out during times of need. There’s a reason chicken soup is called “Jewish penicillin” in some cultures and a staple in countless others every culture has its version, and they all carry that same message of care, love, and healing.

Conclusion:

Mama Mandola’s Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe it’s a bowl of comfort, tradition, and nourishment. It bridges the gap between simple home cooking and soul-satisfying cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for your family, nursing someone back to health, or just craving a cozy meal that speaks to the heart, this soup delivers every time.

Adding this to your kitchen repertoire means you’re not only embracing a dish steeped in Italian culinary history but also adopting a timeless tradition of sharing love through food. As with many great recipes, the joy is in both the making and the sharing.