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There’s something magical about the cozy comfort of a warm soup on a chilly evening. Today, I'm thrilled to share my recipe for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup—a delightful dish that not only warms the soul but is also incredibly quick to prepare. This savory soup marries ground chicken with rich cream, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a hearty crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how it combines wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for settling in after a long day or impressing guests at your next gathering. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that you might find it becoming a regular in your meal rotation. Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth? Let’s get cooking!
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Why Is This Soup So Irresistible?
Creamy goodness: This soup boasts a luxurious blend of heavy cream and whole milk, creating an irresistible texture that's both rich and comforting.
Nutrient-packed: The addition of fresh spinach, carrots, and celery ensures every spoonful is brimming with vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for your family.
Quick and easy: In just about 50 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal, saving you time on busy nights.
Flavorsome herbs: The combination of dried basil and oregano infuses the soup with authentic Italian flavors, transporting your taste buds to the heart of Italy.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this creamy Italian ground chicken soup is bound to impress all your guests—especially when paired with some delicious homemade bread or a fresh salad.
For those looking to mix things up, consider exploring other comforting options like my Classic Tomato Basil Soup or enhancing your meal with a side of Garlic Bread.
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Ingredients
• Dive into making the ultimate cozy dish with these simple ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Olive oil – A source of healthy fats that enhances flavor as it gives a nice golden touch to your vegetables.
- Ground chicken – Leaner than beef, this star ingredient keeps the soup hearty while adding protein.
- Medium onion – Sweetens the soup and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic – Adds an aromatic punch, elevating the taste to a whole new level!
- Chicken broth – The foundation of the soup, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.
For the Creaminess
- Heavy cream – Delivers that luscious texture, making the soup irresistibly creamy.
- Whole milk – Balances the richness of the cream, ensuring a luscious and smooth mouthfeel.
For the Seasoning
- Dried basil – Infuses the soup with a fragrant touch of Italian essence, reminiscent of lovely summer gardens.
- Dried oregano – Enhances the savory notes, rounding out the whole dish and making it taste homemade.
- Salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Black pepper – A dash adds warmth and a little kick to the soup.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – A great way to introduce a bit of heat for those who prefer a spicy kick.
For the Cheesy Finish
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled in at the end, it melts beautifully, enhancing the creamy soup with umami goodness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – Creates a delightful stringy texture that’s simply irresistible in every bite.
For the Veggie Boost
- Fresh spinach – Brightens the soup with color and nutrients, ensuring every serving is a wholesome delight.
- Medium carrot – Adds sweetness and a pleasing crunch to the mix.
- Celery stalk – Provides a crisp texture and subtle flavor that complements the other veggies beautifully.
With these ingredients for your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup, you're sure to create a dish that's as wholesome as it is heartwarming! Now, let’s get those wonderful flavors simmering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Wait for the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it's hot enough to start cooking. This step sets the stage for the wonderful flavors of your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken
Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the hot pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and no longer pink. This ensures a hearty base for your soup, packed with protein.
Step 3: Set Aside the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate. This allows the flavors to develop without overcrowding the pot, making your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup even more delicious.
Step 4: Sauté the Onion
In the same pot, add 1 medium chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and softened, releasing its sweet aroma to complement the chicken.
Step 5: Add the Garlic
Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on the garlic to ensure it doesn't burn, as this can change the flavor profile of your soup.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked ground chicken to the pot, stirring to combine it with the softened onion and garlic. This blending of flavors will create the tasty foundation of your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup.
Step 7: Pour in Chicken Broth
Add 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to mix everything together. Let this come to a gentle simmer, which may take about 2-3 minutes, enhancing the soup's rich flavors.
Step 8: Add Cream and Milk
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, stirring until the mixture is fully combined. This is where the creamy texture of your soup really starts to shine, making it irresistibly comforting.
Step 9: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, along with red pepper flakes if desired. Stir the soup well to incorporate the seasonings, enriching its flavor profile.
Step 10: Simmer to Meld Flavors
Bring your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, which helps the flavors meld together beautifully for a deliciously harmonious dish.
Step 11: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and watch it melt into the soup, enhancing its creamy, savory notes. This step adds a greater depth of flavor that elevates your soup even further.
Step 12: Melt the Mozzarella
Next, add ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until it melts completely into the soup. The mozzarella provides a fantastic stringy texture that adds to the decadence of your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup.
Step 13: Incorporate the Vegetables
Add 2 cups of fresh chopped spinach, 1 medium diced carrot, and 1 diced celery stalk into the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and vibrant, adding essential nutrients to your hearty soup.
Step 14: Adjust the Seasoning
Take a moment to taste your soup. Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference. This ensures that every bowl of your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is perfectly seasoned.
Step 15: Serve Hot
Once everything is ready, ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately. The Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is best enjoyed hot, bringing a cozy warmth to your dining experience!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand while freezing.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through to enjoy its creamy goodness again.
Fresh Spinach: Add fresh spinach just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and texture, ensuring every bite of your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is delightful.
Expert Tips for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Perfect Texture: Use a combination of heavy cream and whole milk for a luxuriously creamy texture; this balance avoids a overly thick soup that can be too rich.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap the spinach with kale or add bell peppers for extra flavor—just remember to adjust cook times for denser vegetables.
Avoid Overcooking: Don’t skip simmering; it’s key for melding flavors. Skipping might result in a bland soup lacking depth.
Season Last: Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end. This step ensures your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is perfectly balanced, as flavors may intensify during cooking.
Storage Tip: If you plan to store leftovers, consider adding fresh spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant. Otherwise, it may wilt and lose its color in the fridge.
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will take your soup to the next level!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or a blend of cashew cream for creamy goodness without dairy.
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add in extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more texture and nutrition. These additions will boost the vibrancy and keep the soup hearty.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a zesty and fiery flavor profile that warms you from the inside out.
- Herbaceous Boost: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can replace dried basil and oregano, providing a fresh aromatic finish that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
- Protein Swap: For a different protein punch, try using ground turkey or even lentils as a meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian option that still brings satisfying heartiness.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese, like Gouda or fontina, to diversify the flavor and provide a unique taste experience. The melted textures will surprise your palate!
- Creamy Variations: For an ultra-rich soup, mix in cream cheese or mascarpone cheese with the grated Parmesan for an added layer of creaminess that is hard to resist.
- Pasta Addition: Stir in some cooked small pasta like orzo or ditalini near the end for a filling twist that turns your soup into a delightful meal—perfect for family or guests!
With these variations, the Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup can become an endless canvas for flavor and creativity. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy or herbaceous, there's no limit to how you can customize this dish! Enjoy experimenting, and don't forget to pair your soup with some mouthwatering sides like Garlic Bread or a refreshing Mediterranean Salad.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (spinach, carrots, and celery) and store them in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, making it effortless to assemble when you're ready to cook. Additionally, you can cook the ground chicken and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, leaving you with just the final steps to complete the soup. When ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the broth, cream, and seasonings, simmer, and melt in the cheeses for a delightful and comforting dish that’s just as delicious as fresh!
What to Serve with Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup to create the perfect cozy meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup, making each bite unforgettable. Perfect for dipping!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing provide a fresh, zesty balance to the richness of the soup. Add some freshly grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasoned, caramelized vegetables adds a delightful crunch and complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots!
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Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks filled with gooey cheese offer an irresistible, indulgent side that pairs beautifully with any creamy dish. Great for sharing!
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Pasta Primaveras: Bright, colorful pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup while enriching your meal with wholesome goodness.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can elevate your dining experience by complementing the flavors of your creamy Italian ground chicken soup while adding a refreshing finish.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light, airy chocolate mousse creates the perfect sweet ending that contrasts the savory soup. It’s a playful way to finish your meal!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, sweet touch to balance the rich flavors of your soup. It’s both light and satisfying.
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Homemade Croutons: Tossed in garlic and olive oil, fresh croutons can be sprinkled over the soup for an added crunchy texture that makes each spoonful even more delightful.
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for a package that has a pinkish color without any dark spots or a strong odor. Aim for lean ground chicken, as it will reduce excess fat in the soup while keeping it tender and flavorful.
How should I store leftover Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
Very! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to preserve its creamy texture and flavor. If you're unsure how to store it properly, simply split it into separate portions for easy access.
Can I freeze Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
Of course! To freeze this soup, place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then gently reheat it on the stove over low heat.
My soup turned out too thick. How can I fix it?
No worries! This can happen sometimes. If your soup is too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or milk, a little at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember to let it simmer briefly after adding liquid to ensure that everything is warm and melded together.
Is this soup safe for people with allergies?
Absolutely! However, if you or someone you are serving has specific allergies, be sure to check all ingredient labels. The soup contains dairy and can be adapted for lactose-free diets by substituting with lactose-free cream and milk. Always consult with your healthcare professional to ensure it’s appropriate for your needs.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Very! You can definitely make Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving, and consider adding fresh spinach right before serving to keep it vibrant and nutritious. It's the perfect way to make meal prep easy while enjoying a comforting dish!
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup That Warms Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add ground chicken, breaking it apart and cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove cooked chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Return cooked ground chicken to the pot.
- Add chicken broth, stirring well and letting it come to a gentle simmer.
- Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring until combined.
- Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted.
- Incorporate fresh spinach, diced carrot, and diced celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, ladling soup into bowls.
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