Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe rich aroma of garlic and onions mingling in the air always brings a smile to my face. It’s a comforting reminder of home, where each spoonful warms your soul. Let me introduce you to my creamy Italian ground chicken soup—a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. This easy-to-make soup is not only a healthy alternative, packed with lean protein, but also incredibly adaptable, allowing you to mix in your favorite vegetables or meat substitutes. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply seeking a light lunch, this bowl of goodness is a hearty embrace waiting for you. Curious about how a few simple ingredients can come together to create magic? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together! Why Is This Soup So Irresistible? Comforting warmth fills your kitchen with this creamy Italian ground chicken soup, transforming any ordinary day into a cozy gathering. Flavorful herbs and rich cheeses meld beautifully, creating a dish that impresses every palate. Versatile and adaptable, feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or protein substitutes. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you crave something nourishing. Crowd-pleasing and satisfying, this soup is a must-try whether you serve it for family dinner or as a delightful lunch! If you love cozy recipes, you might also enjoy this Chicken Gnocchi Soup or Honey Pepper Chicken. Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Ingredients • Ready to whip up this hearty dish? Here’s what you need! For the Soup Base Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing ingredients; provides rich flavor. Ground Chicken – Lean protein that adds texture without overpowering the soup; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option. Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until soft for the best flavor. Garlic – Provides aromatic kick; use minced for stronger flavor. Chicken Broth – The base liquid for depth and umami; can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. For the Creamy Texture Heavy Cream – Gives a luxurious texture; substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Whole Milk – Balances the richness of cream; can be replaced with almond or oat milk for non-dairy. For the Flavor Boost Dried Basil – Adds an herbaceous note; fresh basil can be used for a brighter flavor. Dried Oregano – Earthy flavor that complements the basil; Italian seasoning can work as a substitute. Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste. Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; freshly ground provides the best flavor. For the Cheesy Goodness Grated Parmesan Cheese – Elevates flavor and thickens soup; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan diet. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Adds stringy texture; can omit for a lighter dish. For the Veggie Boost Fresh Spinach – Nutrient boost and color; widely versatile; can substitute with kale. Carrot – Adds sweetness and crunch; can use yellow or orange bell peppers for variation. Celery – Provides hydration and mild flavor; avoid if allergic. For Optional Heat Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – Adds heat; adjust to taste or omit for milder flavor. This creamy Italian ground chicken soup is a delightful way to nourish yourself and your loved ones! 🥣💚 Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Step 1: Heat the Base Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 2 minutes until it shimmers, signaling that it’s ready. This essential step will help build the flavor base for your creamy Italian ground chicken soup. Step 2: Brown the Chicken Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and no longer pink. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and set aside, keeping it warm. Step 3: Sauté Aromatics In the same pot, toss in 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This process will release the natural sweetness of the onion, providing depth to your creamy Italian ground chicken soup. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Step 4: Add Garlic for Flavor Next, add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pot, stirring for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Ensure the garlic doesn’t burn, as this can affect the soup’s flavor. This aromatic addition will enhance the comforting essence of the dish. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Return the browned ground chicken to the pot. Then, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Stir well to combine everything. This step builds the flavorful base of your creamy Italian ground chicken soup. Step 6: Creamy Texture Slowly mix in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, stirring until everything is well incorporated. Bring the mixture to a low simmer over medium heat, allowing the creaminess to envelop the soup without boiling. This luxurious blend is the heart of this comforting dish. Step 7: Season Generously Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. If you enjoy a little kick, add some red pepper flakes. Let the soup simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 8: Melt the Cheeses Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into the pot, stirring until both cheeses melt completely and create a velvety texture. Watch as the cheese transforms your creamy Italian ground chicken soup into a dreamy delight. Step 9: Incorporate the Vegetables Finally, add 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 chopped carrot, and 1 stalk of chopped celery to the pot. Stir gently and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. This adds crucial nutrients and bright color to your delicious soup. Step 10: Adjust and Serve Taste your creamy Italian ground chicken soup, adjusting the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Once it’s flavorful and ready, serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired. Enjoy this nourishing dish on chilly evenings or as a light lunch! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare all the chopping and sautéing steps up to 24 hours in advance. Start by browning the ground chicken and sautéing the onions and garlic. Allow everything to cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the mixture in a pot, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk, and let it simmer. To maintain the soup’s creamy texture, avoid boiling it after adding the dairy. This prep-ahead method ensures you enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors without losing freshness. Freezer: Freeze your creamy Italian ground chicken soup in individual servings for up to 3 months. Be sure to omit delicate ingredients like spinach before freezing to maintain texture. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quick option. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the dairy from curdling. Enjoy a warm bowl that feels just like fresh! What to Serve with Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this delightful soup with a variety of complementary sides that enhance its flavors and textures. Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread soaks up the creamy goodness of the soup effortlessly. Mixed Green Salad: A light, fresh salad of mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks bring an indulgent touch, perfect for sopping up every last bit of soup. Roasted Vegetables: Earthy, caramelized veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a colorful and nutritious balance alongside the rich soup. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish bursting with seasonal vegetables complements the soup’s creamy texture while remaining satisfying. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice enhanced with fresh herbs makes for a delightful pairing that absorbs the savory broth beautifully. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and light, this drink cleanses the palate between spoonfuls of soup, making the meal even more enjoyable. Tiramisu: Indulge your sweet tooth afterward with tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert that offers a delightful ending to your comforting meal. Variations & Substitutions: Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Feel free to make this creamy Italian ground chicken soup your own by experimenting with these delicious variations! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and almond milk instead of heavy cream and whole milk for a light, dairy-free alternative that still yields a creamy texture. Your guests will hardly notice the difference! Vegetable Medley: Substitute spinach and carrots with zucchini and bell peppers for a vibrant splash of color and flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies while enjoying that comforting taste. Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños. This is perfect for those who love a little spice in their comfort food, adding an exciting burst of flavor. Pasta Lovers: Incorporate cooked pasta like rigatoni or penne into the soup for a hearty twist. This sturdy addition transforms your soup into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Ground Meat Variations: Swap the ground chicken for turkey, beef, or pork based on your preference or what you have on hand. Each option brings its own unique flavor and can be a fun way to change things up! Herb Explosion: For a fresh and aromatic touch, replace dried herbs with chopped fresh basil and parsley just before serving. It gives a delightful pop of flavor and brightness that elevates the dish. Savory Additions: Stir in some chopped bacon or pancetta while cooking the onions for a smoky flavor that adds depth to your soup. Trust me, this savory twist will have your family raving! Vegan Version: Omit chicken and use lentils along with vegetable broth and vegan cheeses for a plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Consider serving with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. Feeling inspired? If you love variations, you might also enjoy this creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff or a comforting bowl of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Expert Tips for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer for a bit longer for richer flavors to develop, making the creamy Italian ground chicken soup even more satisfying. Fresh Herbs Last: Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano towards the end of cooking to keep their vibrant flavors intact; this prevents them from wilting or losing potency. Reheat with Care: When reheating leftovers, do it gently over low heat to avoid curdling the dairy, keeping your creamy Italian ground chicken soup silky smooth. Texture Twist: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it until smooth and then stir it back in; this enhances creaminess without needing more dairy. Add Extra Veggies: Around the end of cooking, feel free to toss in additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor, making this dish even more versatile. Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting ground chicken? When choosing ground chicken, opt for a package that appears moist and has a bright pink color. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell, which can indicate spoilage. It’s best to buy from a trusted butcher or brand for consistent quality. How can I store leftovers of the creamy Italian ground chicken soup? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the soup is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Can I freeze the creamy Italian ground chicken soup? Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool and portion it into freezer-safe containers. Be sure to omit delicate ingredients like spinach before freezing, as they don’t thaw well. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. What should I do if my soup is too thick? If your creamy Italian ground chicken soup turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it through over low stovetop heat, making sure to stir frequently to avoid scorching. Are there any dietary considerations for this soup? Yes! For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute heavy cream and whole milk with coconut cream and non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. Additionally, always check labels for any hidden allergens in ground chicken products. How should I reheat the creamy Italian ground chicken soup? To reheat the soup, do so gently over low heat to prevent the dairy from curdling. Stir frequently and consider adding a splash of milk or broth to help restore its creamy texture. This will ensure you enjoy a comforting bowl that feels fresh! Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup for Cozy Evenings Experience the comforting flavors of Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup, a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for sautéing ingredients; provides rich flavor.1 pound Ground Chicken Lean protein; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; sauté until soft for the best flavor.4 cloves Garlic Minced for stronger flavor.4 cups Chicken Broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.For the Creamy Texture1 cup Heavy Cream Gives a luxurious texture; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.1 cup Whole Milk Can be replaced with almond or oat milk for non-dairy.For the Flavor Boost1 tablespoon Dried Basil Adds an herbaceous note; fresh basil can be used.1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Earthy flavor; Italian seasoning can work as a substitute.to taste Salt Enhances all flavors.to taste Black Pepper Freshly ground provides the best flavor.For the Cheesy Goodness½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Elevates flavor; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan diet.1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Adds stringy texture; can omit for a lighter dish.For the Veggie Boost2 cups Fresh Spinach Nutrient boost; can substitute with kale.1 medium Carrot Can use yellow or orange bell peppers.1 stalk Celery Provides hydration; avoid if allergic.For Optional Heatto taste Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste or omit. Equipment Large pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it shimmers.Add 1 pound of ground chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring until browned and no longer pink.In the same pot, sauté 1 finely chopped onion for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and stir for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.Return the browned ground chicken to the pot, then pour in 4 cups of chicken broth.Slowly mix in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, stirring well.Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper.Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted.Incorporate 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 chopped carrot, and 1 stalk of chopped celery; cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes.Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 27gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesSimmer longer for richer flavors. Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking for vibrancy. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream. For a thicker soup, blend part and stir back in. Add extra veggies for added nutrition. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
