When the weather turns chilly and you find yourself longing for something warm and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup. Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is the perfect dish to satisfy that craving. This soup combines the rich flavors of Italian herbs with the wholesome goodness of ground chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy dairy. It’s an easy recipe that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Why We Love This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
There’s so much to love about Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. First and foremost, it strikes a wonderful balance between creaminess and flavor. The combination of heavy cream and whole milk results in a luxurious texture, while the herbs bring a burst of Mediterranean flavor that elevates the dish.
Another delightful aspect is the adaptability of this recipe. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. You can add more seasonal vegetables, adjust the spices, or even replace ground chicken with another protein. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash after enjoying a fantastic meal! Most importantly, this soup is made with love and care, creating not just a meal but a memorable dining experience.
Ingredients about Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
To whip up a pot of Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Directions
Creating this flavorful soup is straightforward, and you don’t need to be a culinary expert to make it shine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step not only warms the oil but also begins to draw out the flavors when you add the chicken. Once the oil is ready, add the pound of ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes or until it’s browned and no longer pink. The aroma will fill the space, setting the mood for a hearty meal. Once done, set the chicken aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. The sizzling sound will be music to your ears! Next, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as that can lead to an unpleasant bitterness.
Now, it’s time to return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, allowing the flavors to mingle. As the soup starts to warm up, add the heavy cream and whole milk, mixing until everything is nicely combined.
Season the mixture with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Stir well to incorporate the spices, and let the soup simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering period is vital, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a soup that delights your taste buds.
Next, you’ll want to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as it melts into the soup, bringing in a rich, cheesy flavor that clings to every bite. After the Parmesan cheese has melted, add the shredded mozzarella and mix until it too has melted into the velvety concoction.
At this point, you can add the fresh spinach, diced carrot, and celery. Cook everything together until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning if necessary. It’s time to serve this delicious soup warm and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
How to Serve Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is an opportunity to create a lovely dining experience. As you ladle the warm soup into bowls, consider garnishing with additional grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
For a complete meal, pair the soup with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread. This combination will allow your guests to dip bread into the creamy soup, making every bite delightful. If you want to impress even more, consider serving it with a light salad on the side.
Offer toppings like crushed red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper so that everyone can adjust their serving to their liking. No matter how you choose to serve it, your guests are sure to be impressed!
Expert Tips: Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
To ensure that your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a hit, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh spinach will have more flavor and nutrients than frozen, elevating the overall taste of your soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use less broth or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired texture. Conversely, if you enjoy a lighter soup, add more broth.
- Enhance Flavor: Don’t hesitate to add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking for a bright flavor boost.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The flavors develop even further, making it taste even better the next day.
- Garnish: Keep garnishes simple yet flavorful. Fresh herbs or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can make a huge difference in presentation.
How to Store Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Storing your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup properly will help maintain its flavor and prevent spoilage. Allow the soup to cool at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Place it in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion during freezing. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Variation of Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
The beauty of Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup lies in its versatility. Here are some variations to keep things exciting:
- Vegetable Medley: You can add more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or peas, to enhance the nutritional profile and color of your soup.
- Spices: Experiment with spices! A pinch of nutmeg can add a warmth to the soup, while adding thyme or rosemary can introduce new aromatic layers.
- Cheese: Try different cheeses to find your favorite. Ricotta or goat cheese can add creaminess while offering distinct flavors.
- Noodles: For a heartier soup, add cooked pasta or rice towards the end of the cooking process. This addition makes the meal more filling and can create a new texture.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to replace ground chicken with turkey, lean beef, or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
FAQ
What is Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a hearty and delicious dish made with ground chicken, vegetables, creamy dairy, and a blend of Italian herbs. It’s perfect for chilly days and is easy to prepare as a one-pot meal.
How long does it take to make Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
The entire process of making Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup takes about 30 to 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, comforting meal any night of the week.
Can I make Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious when reheated.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I customize the ingredients in Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can easily customize this soup to your liking. Feel free to add different vegetables, adjust the spices, or experiment with different types of cheese and proteins.
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 0.5 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach chopped
- 1 medium Carrot diced
- 1 stalk Celery diced
- 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir well. Then add heavy cream and whole milk, mixing until combined.
- Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted, then add shredded mozzarella until melted.
- Add fresh spinach, diced carrot, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve warm.
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