Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe kitchen was alive with the inviting scent of garlic sizzling in olive oil, a prelude to cozy nights ahead. I often find myself craving a comforting bowl of Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup, a dish that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. It’s not just a hearty meal; it’s quick to whip up in under 50 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time slips away. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients like ground chicken for turkey or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied. Curious to see how this creamy delight comes together? Let’s dive in! Why is this soup a family favorite? Comforting Aroma: The moment you sauté garlic and onions, your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas that draw everyone in. Quick Preparation: In just under 50 minutes, you can serve a rich, comforting meal that tastes like it simmered all day. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap ground chicken for turkey, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, allowing this soup to cater to various dietary preferences. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With a blend of herbs and creamy textures, it’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for more hearty options, check out this delicious Chicken Vegetable Soup. Nutrient Boost: The inclusion of fresh spinach and veggies not only colors the soup but packs it with nutritious goodness, making it a meal you can feel good about serving. This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup will not just warm your belly but also create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for any gathering or family night. Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Ingredients • Indulge in this rich dish that offers ingredient flexibility! For the Soup Base Olive Oil – Used for sautéing garlic and onions, it adds a savory touch; you can swap it for butter if preferred. Ground Chicken – This lean protein makes the soup hearty; ground turkey works well as a lighter option. Onion – Sautéing adds sweetness and depth—a yellow or white onion will do the trick. Garlic – Minced for its aromatic kick; fresh is best, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Chicken Broth – Brings umami richness; homemade or store-bought both do the job effectively. Heavy Cream – Adds that luscious, creamy texture; coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative. Whole Milk – Balances the richness of the cream; using low-fat milk reduces creaminess but adds fewer calories. For the Seasoning Dried Basil – A signature Italian herb imparting sweetness; fresh basil can brighten the flavor even more. Dried Oregano – Adds earthy notes to complement the soup; Italian seasoning is a convenient substitute. Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. For the Cheesy Goodness Grated Parmesan Cheese – Contributes nutty flavor and richness; nutritional yeast provides a dairy-free option. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Delivers that delightful melty texture; cheddar is a sharp swap if desired. For the Veggie Boost Fresh Spinach – Brings color and nutrients to the soup; frozen spinach can be used but may alter texture. Carrot – Offers natural sweetness and crunch; you can replace it with diced zucchini for a lighter choice. Celery – Provides a mild, savory crunch for added texture. For a Kick (Optional) Red Pepper Flakes – For a little spice; adjust to your taste or use fresh chili peppers for an extra kick. This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is as comforting as it is versatile, inviting everyone to the table for a cozy meal. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Step 1: Heat the Oil In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. This should take about 1-2 minutes. The oil is ready when it glistens and you can smell a gentle aroma. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it’s softened and translucent, forming the flavorful base for your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. Step 2: Brown the Chicken Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the pot and increase the heat slightly. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned through, no longer pink in the center. The chicken should sizzle as it cooks, and you’ll notice a slight caramelization on the bottom of the pot, which will enhance your soup’s flavor. Step 3: Sauté Garlic Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with that delicious aroma of garlic. Be careful not to burn it, as that can bring a bitter flavor. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Return the browned ground chicken to the pot and stir well to combine with the garlic and onions. Allow the mixture to heat through for another minute or so, ensuring all those rich flavors meld perfectly together before you add the broth. Step 5: Add the Broth Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. As you mix, you’ll see everything coming together into a savory base for your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to deepen. Step 6: Creamy Blend Once simmering, slowly add 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk to the pot. Stir continuously until smooth, and watch as the soup transforms into a creamy delight. This should take about 2-3 minutes, resulting in a luscious texture that’s hard to resist. Step 7: Season the Soup Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’re craving some heat, add in red pepper flakes now. Stir well and allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes on low heat, letting those flavors meld beautifully. Step 8: Melt the Cheese Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the pot. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and create that delightful, gooey texture in your soup. It should take about 3-5 minutes for everything to come together, coating the soup with cheesy goodness. Step 9: Add the Vegetables Toss in 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 diced carrot, and 1 cup of diced celery. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. You’ll see the spinach wilt and the carrots soften, adding both color and nutrition to your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. Step 10: Final Seasoning Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or garlic if needed. This is where you can personalize it to your liking. If it needs more depth, a hint of extra herbs can elevate your dish. Step 11: Serve and Enjoy Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side. The Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is ready to warm hearts and bellies, perfect for a cozy dinner! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base, including sautéing the onions, garlic, and ground chicken, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality, wait to add the heavy cream and cheese until you’re ready to serve; this will ensure the soup maintains its creamy texture. On the day of serving, gently reheat the soup on the stove and stir in the cream, cheeses, and fresh vegetables during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors with minimal effort! Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Variations Feel free to personalize your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup with these fun and delicious tweaks! Ground Turkey: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey to reduce fat content while keeping it classic and comforting. Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream and milk with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Veggie Boost: Add diced potatoes or frozen corn for a heartier soup with satisfying texture and sweetness. They’ll cook comfortably in the broth, becoming tender yet firm. Spice It Up: Increase red pepper flakes for a fiery kick or toss in fresh chili peppers for a bold flavor explosion that warms the soul. Whole Wheat Pasta: Stir in whole wheat pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for a filling meal that enhances both texture and flavor. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for a unique twist on the traditional Italian profile. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish beautifully. Cheese Swap: Use cheddar cheese in place of mozzarella for a sharper taste that contrasts with the creamy base, adding a delightful zing. Add Beans: A can of white beans can be tossed in for a protein boost, making the soup even heartier and satisfying. They’ll absorb the flavors beautifully and add nutritional value. Enjoy customizing your bowl! For more heartwarming recipes, don’t forget to check out our scrumptious Garlic Butter Chicken or try the comforting Potato Soup Comfort. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The rich flavors of the creamy Italian ground chicken soup will deepen over time. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing fresh spinach or pasta for the best texture upon reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened. Serving Suggestion: Serve topped with extra herbs or cheese for a fresh finish. Expert Tips for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano significantly enhance flavor, while dried herbs may lose potency over time. Don’t skimp on freshness for this creamy Italian ground chicken soup! Avoid Boiling: After adding cream, keep the heat low and avoid a vigorous boil, as this can cause curdling and ruin the silky texture you’re aiming for. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to personalize the soup while still keeping its creamy essence. Storage Strategies: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If the soup thickens in the fridge, simply add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Perfect Pasta Addition: For a heartier meal, add cooked pasta directly to the soup; just ensure it doesn’t become too mushy by cooking it al dente before mixing in. Adjust Spice Level: If you like a kick, increase or decrease the red pepper flakes. Remember, it’s all about balancing those flavors in your creamy Italian ground chicken soup! What to Serve with Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup To create the perfect cozy meal, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors and textures of your soup. Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for dipping, this warm, crunchy loaf adds a comforting touch to your creamy soup. Garden Salad: A light mix of fresh greens and veggies adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the soup’s richness. Toss in some vinaigrette for zing! Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized seasonal veggies offer a delightful contrast to the creamy texture, enriching your meal with vibrant flavors. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery with a hint of garlic, these are ideal for soaking up every bit of deliciousness from your soup. Parmesan Crisps: Crispy, cheesy bites bring an extra layer of flavor and crunch, enhancing the overall dining experience. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink’s citrus notes brighten each bite, cleansing the palate while complementing the soup’s creaminess. Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with this warm dessert, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors following your savory soup. Pesto Bruschetta: These vibrant bites of roasted tomatoes and basil pesto provide a delightful burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with your dish. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers create a fresh, colorful side that echoes the Italian-inspired theme of your meal. Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea serves as a gentle, relaxing finish to your cozy dinner, enhancing the warmth of your gathering. Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ground chicken? Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for meat that is pinkish in color with minimal dark spots. Avoid any that appear gray or past their sell-by date. Fresh ground chicken is key for the best texture and flavor, so opt for it from your butcher or a reputable brand. How should I store leftovers of the soup? Very! Store any leftover Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If the soup thickens while in the fridge, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore its creamy goodness when reheating. Can I freeze Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup? Absolutely! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, to maintain the best texture, avoid freezing fresh spinach, as it tends to become mushy upon thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if necessary to refresh its creaminess. What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lower-calorie option? Great question! For a lighter option, I recommend substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of low-fat milk with cornstarch to thicken. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk will work wonderfully and impart a different, delightful flavor to the soup. How can I make this soup gluten-free? Very easily! The ingredients in this Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup are naturally gluten-free, but you’ll need to ensure the chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free. Always check for hidden gluten in seasonings and be aware of any cross-contamination, especially if you’re serving someone with severe gluten allergies. What should I do if my soup is too thick after cooking? Don’t worry, it happens! If your soup turns out too thick, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well and let it warm through for a few minutes. This way, your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup remains as rich and delicious as intended without losing its comforting character. Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup for a Cozy Dinner Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a comforting, quick meal that warms you up. Perfect for busy evenings, it caters to various dietary preferences. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons olive oil can swap for butter1 pound ground chicken can use ground turkey1 medium onion yellow or white3 cloves garlic minced; fresh best4 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought1 cup heavy cream can swap for coconut milk1 cup whole milk low-fat option availableFor the Seasoning1 tablespoon dried basil or use fresh basil1 teaspoon dried oregano or substitute Italian seasoningto taste saltto taste black pepperFor the Cheesy Goodness½ cup grated Parmesan cheese nutritional yeast for dairy-free1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese can use cheddarFor the Veggie Boost2 cups fresh spinach frozen can be used1 medium carrot can replace with zucchini1 cup celeryFor a Kick (Optional)to taste red pepper flakes or use fresh chili peppers Equipment large pot Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.Add the ground chicken and increase the heat slightly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking apart with a spatula, until browned through.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.Return the browned ground chicken to the pot and stir well to combine with the garlic and onions. Heat for another minute.Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients, and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.Slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring continuously until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.Sprinkle in the dried basil, dried oregano and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add red pepper flakes if desired, stir well, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt and create a gooey texture.Toss in the fresh spinach, diced carrot, and diced celery, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until tender.Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or garlic if needed.Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh herbs for better flavor and avoid boiling after adding cream to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
