Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines lean ground chicken with vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a creamy broth. Infused with Italian flavors like garlic, basil, and oregano, this soup is a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy. The ground chicken adds a protein-packed element, making it a filling yet healthy option. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for a chilly evening or a nutritious dinner, this soup is a delicious and easy choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is not only packed with flavor but is also simple to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. The combination of ground chicken, creamy broth, and Italian seasonings creates a rich, satisfying soup that feels indulgent but is lighter than traditional creamy soups. It’s versatile too—add your favorite vegetables or greens to make it even more nutritious. With a perfect balance of creaminess and spice, this soup is bound to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground chicken

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 1/2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Ground Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully cooked and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat if needed and set the chicken aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.

3. Season the Soup: Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, allowing the spices to cook for a minute to release their flavors.

4. Add the Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.

5. Add the Cream and Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the soup is creamy and the cheese has melted into the broth.

6. Add the Greens: If using spinach or kale, stir it into the soup now. Allow the greens to wilt and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers to the soup for added flavor and texture.

• Use Ground Turkey: If you prefer, you can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey for a slightly leaner version.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.

• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream and skip the Parmesan cheese.

• Add Beans or Pasta: For extra heartiness, add a can of cannellini beans or some small pasta like orzo or ditalini.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. You may need to add a little more broth or cream if it thickens too much after refrigeration.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?

Yes! If you prefer chicken breast, you can shred it or dice it and add it to the soup in place of ground chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the broth and spices. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream, Parmesan, and greens toward the end of cooking.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well and can be made ahead of time. Prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

4. Can I use a non-dairy cream alternative?

Yes, you can use coconut milk, cashew cream, or any plant-based cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor to the soup.

5. How do I know when the soup is done?

The soup is done when the vegetables are tender, the chicken is fully cooked, and the soup is creamy and well-mixed. You can taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

6. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables like peas or spinach can be used in this soup. Just add them toward the end of the cooking process so they don’t become too mushy.

7. Can I add pasta to this soup?

Yes, you can add small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or even small tortellini for added texture. Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of simmering.

8. Can I make this soup spicier?

If you prefer a spicy kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

9. Can I skip the cream?

Yes, if you prefer a lighter soup, you can skip the cream and just use more chicken broth. You could also use milk or a non-dairy milk alternative if you still want a creamy texture without the heaviness.

10. How can I make this soup thicker?

If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the broth to thicken it before adding the cream.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is the perfect cozy meal to warm you up on a chilly day. Packed with lean chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy broth, it’s a balanced and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and full of comforting Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today for a filling, delicious meal!