I remember one particularly gray November day, the kind that chills you to the bone no matter how many layers you pile on, my Nonna would always say “*Fa freddo!* (It’s cold!)” and immediately get to work in the kitchen; the remedy was always a pot of something warm and nourishing simmering on the stove. Today, we’re channeling that cozy, comforting feeling with a recipe for delicious Italian Ground Chicken Soup. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure, unadulterated warmth that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Okay, friend, let’s get real. There are a million and one soup recipes out there, so why should you dedicate your precious time to *this* particular Italian Ground Chicken Soup? Well, buckle up, because I’m about to give you the lowdown.
- It’s Ridiculously Easy: Seriously. If you can chop an onion (and I *know* you can!), you can make this soup. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
- It’s Packed with Flavor: We’re talking about layers of deliciousness here. From the savory ground chicken and aromatic vegetables to the bright, herbaceous broth, every spoonful is a party in your mouth.
- It’s Customizable: Don’t like spinach? Swap it for kale! Want a little more kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes! This recipe is your blank canvas.
- It’s Healthy: Lean ground chicken, plenty of veggies, and a light broth make this soup a guilt-free pleasure. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
- It’s Comfort Food at Its Finest: There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that soothes the soul. This Italian Ground Chicken Soup is like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s gather our troops! Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:
- Ground Chicken: 1 pound. Opt for lean ground chicken to keep things healthy.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. The foundation of flavor!
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Yellow or white onion will work perfectly.
- Carrots: 2 medium, chopped. Adds sweetness and color.
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped. The holy trinity of soup!
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Because garlic makes everything better.
- Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons. That signature Italian flavor!
- Chicken Broth: 8 cups. Low-sodium is always a good choice.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained. Adds acidity and depth.
- Spinach: 5 ounces, fresh, roughly chopped. Feel free to use frozen if you prefer, just thaw and squeeze out the excess water first.
- Small Pasta: 1 cup (such as ditalini, orzo, or acini di pepe). Adds a bit of heartiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: For grating on top (optional, but highly recommended!).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy!
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!
Okay, here’s where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious bowl of Italian Ground Chicken Soup in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. Drain off any excess grease (if necessary). Nobody wants a greasy soup!
Step 3: Add the Garlic and Italian Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This is when your kitchen will start to smell absolutely amazing.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Stir in the pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as the cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta you use.
Step 6: Add the Spinach
Stir in the spinach and cook until it’s wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Fresh spinach wilts quickly, so don’t overcook it.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. And there you have it – a bowl of pure comfort!
Tips and Tricks for the BEST Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Alright, friend, I’m not going to let you go without sharing a few secrets to take your Italian Ground Chicken Soup to the next level.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta in their soup. Add the pasta towards the end of cooking, and keep an eye on it to ensure it’s cooked al dente.
- Use Quality Broth: The broth is the foundation of your soup, so choose a good-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is even better, if you have the time!
- Add a Touch of Acid: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup. Trust me on this one!
- Make It Ahead: This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
- Freeze It for Later: Soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Spice it up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a little bit of heat.
Variations to Make It Your Own
The beauty of this Italian Ground Chicken Soup is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking!
- Add More Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, green beans – the possibilities are endless!
- Use Different Greens: Kale, escarole, or even Swiss chard would be delicious in this soup.
- Add Beans: White beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern) would add a boost of protein and fiber.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese at the end for a richer, more decadent soup.
- Add a Parmesan Rind: Simmering a Parmesan rind in the soup adds a ton of umami flavor. Just be sure to remove it before serving.
- Use Ground Turkey: If you don’t have ground chicken on hand, ground turkey is a perfectly acceptable substitute.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a complete meal in itself, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:
- Serve with Crusty Bread: For dipping in the delicious broth.
- Add a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing would be a refreshing complement to the soup.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or oregano adds a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with a Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never disappoints!
- Follow up with Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip: for a sweet and savory meal!
Other Delicious Soup Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you’re a soup lover like me, then you’re always on the hunt for new and exciting recipes. Here are a few of my other favorite soup recipes that I think you’ll absolutely adore:
- Minestrone Soup: A classic Italian vegetable soup that’s hearty, healthy, and bursting with flavor.
- Italian Penicillin Soup: A comforting and restorative soup that’s perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather. Loaded with garlic and other immune-boosting ingredients!
- Lasagna Soup: All the delicious flavors of lasagna in a comforting bowl of soup. So easy to make!
- Cozy Chicken Soup: An elevated, elegant take on the familiar Chicken Noodle Soup.
- Marry Me Chicken Soup: A rich, creamy, flavor bomb that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe a proposal!).
Troubleshooting: Common Soup Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the most experienced cooks can make mistakes, so don’t be discouraged if your soup doesn’t turn out perfectly the first time. Here are a few common soup mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Bland Soup: Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to add salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to taste. Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Watery Soup: If your soup is too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch or flour mixed with cold water.
- Salty Soup: If your soup is too salty, you can try adding a peeled potato to the pot and simmering it for 15-20 minutes. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance out the flavors.
- Mushy Vegetables: To avoid mushy vegetables, add them to the soup in order of cooking time. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes should be added first, followed by softer vegetables like zucchini and spinach.
Storage Instructions
Here’s the lowdown on storing your amazing soup:
- Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Let the soup cool down completely before putting it in freezer-safe containers. Leave a little room at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It’s best to use within 2-3 months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Homemade Italian Ground Chicken Soup!
There you have it, friend! A complete guide to making the most delicious Italian Ground Chicken Soup you’ve ever tasted. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, bringing you comfort and joy with every spoonful. Happy cooking!
Can I substitute any of the ingredients in the Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
Yes, the recipe is highly customizable! You can swap spinach for kale, add red pepper flakes for heat, add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, use different greens like kale or Swiss chard, add white beans, or even use ground turkey instead of ground chicken.
How should I store leftover Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
To refrigerate, cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container and store for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before reheating.
What can I serve with the Italian Ground Chicken Soup to make it a complete meal?
The soup is a complete meal itself, but you can serve it with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. The article also suggests following it up with Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip for dessert!
What can I do to avoid bland soup?
Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to add salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to taste. Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed.
BEST ITALIAN GROUND CHICKEN SOUP
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as the cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta you use.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until it’s wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
