I’ve always loved simple recipes that pack a punch of flavor and comfort. This chicken and escarole recipe is exactly that — a hearty, healthy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

The tender chicken combined with the slightly bitter, leafy escarole creates a perfect balance that’s both satisfying and nourishing. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to make but full of taste,

I’m excited to share this one with you. Let me guide you through the steps so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in about an hour.

Table of Contents

🕒 Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Course: Main Course

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: Serves 4

🧰 Equipment Needed

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board and knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

🛒 Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 head escarole, cleaned and chopped
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Incorporate the Escarole and Pasta

Stir in the chopped escarole and pasta. Continue to simmer until the escarole is tender and the pasta is cooked al dente, about 10 minutes.

5. Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions For Chicken And Escarole Recipe

This Chicken and Escarole Soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty Italian bread or a warm baguette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

💡 Tips and Variations For Chicken And Escarole Recipe

Make it Creamy: For a richer soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Add Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans make a great addition for extra protein and texture.
Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat to the soup.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken thighs.

🥦 Health Benefits For Chicken And Escarole Recipe

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

Escarole: A leafy green rich in vitamins A and K, as well as fiber.
Chicken: A lean source of protein that helps build and repair body tissues.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.

🧊 How I Store It

I always make enough to have leftovers because this soup tastes even better the next day. Once it cools down, I transfer it into airtight containers and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If I want to store it longer, I pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove over medium heat.

One tip: If I plan to freeze it, I cook the pasta separately and add it fresh when reheating. That way, it doesn’t get mushy.

📝 Note

Feel free to customize this soup based on your preferences and what you have on hand. It’s a versatile recipe that’s forgiving and adaptable, making it a perfect go-to meal for any night of the week.

🏁 Conclusion

Making this chicken and escarole recipe always feels like coming home. It’s simple, healthy, and full of flavor — everything I look for in a weeknight meal.

I hope you give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste as much as I do. Whether you’re new to escarole or a longtime fan,

this recipe is a great way to bring a little warmth and nourishment to your table. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations I shared to make it truly your own. Happy cooking!