If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and effortlessly flavorful meal, this One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe is the answer. It’s a hearty blend of tender ground chicken, vibrant veggies, and luscious creaminess all simmered together with classic Italian herbs, creating a dish that’s both cozy and elegant. This soup is not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with fresh taste and satisfying textures, making it perfect for a family dinner or a weeknight treat that feels anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color in this soup, ensuring every spoonful is fulfilling and delicious.
- 1 lb ground chicken: A lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the wonderful spices and flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken to develop a savory base for the soup’s rich flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Elevates the soup with aromatic warmth and a classic Italian flair.
- 1 large carrot, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Provides a fresh, crisp texture that balances the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses herbal notes that are absolutely essential in Italian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements oregano while enhancing the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat for those who like a gentle kick.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that melds all ingredients together gently.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free): Creamifies the soup, creating that luscious, silky mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty richness and thickens the broth slightly.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring brightness and depth.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional): Adds a nutritious green boost and vibrant color that brightens the bowl.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbal finish that makes each serving irresistible.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and break it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5 to 7 minutes; this step builds a savory foundation and locks in flavor, ensuring every bite feels indulgent and satisfying.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Sauté everything together for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent. This combination brings natural sweetness and texture, enhancing the warmth and depth of the soup.
Step 3: Add Italian Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat. Cook for one minute while stirring to release the vibrant aromas of the herbs — this moment infuses the entire pot with that authentic Italian essence you crave.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes so the vegetables get fully tender and the flavors harmonize into a deliciously robust broth that invites you to dive right in.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for another 5 minutes as the soup thickens slightly into a creamy, dreamy texture with a perfectly rich body that balances the lightness of the chicken.
Step 6: Season and Add Greens
Season with salt and pepper to your taste, and if you’re adding spinach, stir it in now. Let the heat gently wilt the spinach leaves, brightening both the color and nutrition of this already fabulous soup.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. This final touch adds a fresh, herbal aroma that makes the rustic soup feel special and inviting on your table.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic finish, but consider adding a little extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant touch. A twist of freshly cracked black pepper can instantly add visual appeal and a flavor pop.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up the luscious broth. A simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette will balance the creamy texture and keep the meal feeling bright and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls or mugs for a cozy vibe. For a party, you could offer individual servings in mini bread bowls, making it a fun and informal appetizer. Garnishing with a small basil leaf or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also personalize each bowl beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it chills, making for excellent next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Keep in mind that creamy soups may slightly separate when thawed, so a gentle stir after reheating helps bring it back to its silky consistency.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to reincorporate any separated cream. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to cover and stir halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground chicken with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even lean ground beef can work well in this recipe, keeping the same cooking method for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative to maintain the creaminess without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would make great additions. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you sauté the other vegetables.
How spicy is this soup with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat—but feel free to adjust or omit them based on your preference for spice.
Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! Make a big batch, portion it out, and store it for quick meals during the week. Reheat and add fresh garnishes for that just-cooked feel.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe is truly a heartfelt dish that brings warmth and comfort with every delicious spoonful. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to impress loved ones. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this soup—once you try it, it will surely become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
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One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Combining tender ground chicken with aromatic vegetables, Italian herbs, and a rich creamy broth, this soup is easy to prepare in just 35 minutes. The addition of spinach adds a fresh touch, making it both nutritious and delicious. Ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting bowl of soup with Italian flair.
Ingredients
Protein and Oils
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot and sauté for another 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Simmer Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to fully soften.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
- Season and Add Greens: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add the spinach if using. Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Adding fresh spinach adds color and nutrients but can be omitted or substituted with kale or Swiss chard.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
