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
Scale
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
