Italian Ground Chicken Soup: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Italian Ground Chicken Soup: Just imagine a chilly evening, the kind where a warm, comforting bowl of soup is all you crave. Now, picture that soup bursting with savory Italian flavors, tender ground chicken, and hearty vegetables. That’s exactly what you get with this incredible recipe! This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen.

While the exact origins of Italian Ground Chicken Soup are debated, the concept of a hearty, broth-based soup with meat and vegetables is deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition. For generations, Italian families have relied on simple, wholesome ingredients to create nourishing and flavorful meals. This soup embodies that spirit, offering a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy classic Italian tastes.

What makes this soup so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The savory ground chicken, simmered with aromatic herbs and vegetables, creates a rich and comforting broth. The addition of pasta or rice adds a satisfying heartiness, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal. So, get ready to experience the warmth and flavor of Italy with this amazing soup recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Soup Base

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to build a flavorful base for our soup. This is where all the deliciousness begins, so pay close attention.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly translucent, not browned. This step is crucial for releasing their natural sweetness and creating a rich flavor foundation.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be intoxicating!

Browning the Ground Chicken

Now, let’s add the star of the show – the ground chicken! We want to brown it nicely to add depth of flavor to the soup.

3. Brown the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pot and break it up with a spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Make sure there are no pink bits left. Drain off any excess grease. Browning the chicken adds a wonderful savory element to the soup.

Simmering the Soup

Time to bring everything together and let the flavors meld! This is where the magic happens.

4. Add the Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop. This is a great time to relax and let the soup do its thing!

Cooking the Pasta

Adding the pasta at the right time is key to preventing it from becoming mushy. We want it perfectly al dente!

6. Add the Pasta: Stir in the small pasta (ditalini or orzo). Cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finishing Touches

Almost there! A few final touches will elevate this soup to the next level.

7. Add the Spinach: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients.
8. Stir in Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a creamy, cheesy richness to the soup.
9. Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are already salty, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Serving

The moment we’ve all been waiting for – time to enjoy our delicious Italian Ground Chicken Soup!

10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A sprinkle of fresh parsley would also be a lovely addition.
11. Enjoy!: Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is perfect on a chilly day or any time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your soup? Here are a few ideas:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
• Use Different Protein: You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground chicken.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Add Beans: Stir in a can of cannellini beans or other white beans for added protein and fiber.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use them instead of dried for an even more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this soup gluten-free.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Make Ahead Tip

You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-5) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the soup base to a simmer, add the pasta, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, and proceed as directed.

Freezing Instructions

This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving
• Protein: 25-30 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams per serving
• Fat: 10-15 grams per serving

Enjoy your homemade Italian Ground Chicken Soup! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Italian Ground Chicken Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl, a comforting and flavorful experience that I truly believe you need in your life. From the savory depth of the browned ground chicken to the bright, herbaceous notes of the Italian seasoning and the satisfying chew of the pasta, every spoonful is a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. Honestly, I’ve made this soup countless times, and it’s always a hit.

But why is this particular soup a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of healthy and hearty. Ground chicken is a lean protein source, and the addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach (or kale!) packs in essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Want to kick things up a notch? A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a dollop of pesto on top adds a burst of richness and flavor. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re watching your carb intake, you can easily omit the pasta or substitute it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. For a creamier soup, stir in a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables! Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms would be delicious additions. You can also swap out the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or kidney beans.

Another great variation is to use different types of pasta. Ditalini, orzo, or even small shells would work perfectly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or rice.

This Italian Ground Chicken Soup is also fantastic for meal prepping. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be easily reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy lunches or dinners. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before freezing it in airtight containers or freezer bags.

I truly believe that this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening or a quick and healthy meal any time of year.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this soup as much as I do. And more importantly, I’m eager to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? What did your family think?

Please, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and share your thoughts and experiences. I love hearing from you and learning about your culinary adventures. Your feedback helps me improve my recipes and inspire other readers to try them. Happy cooking!