This warming Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! Packed with yummy ground chicken, veggies, and herbs, it’s perfect for chilly days or a light dinner.
The best part? It’s super quick to make. I love how the flavors come together, and the smell fills my kitchen—it’s like a big hug in a bowl! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the soup, making it lighter than traditional beef or sausage. If you’re looking for a swap, turkey is a great option or you can use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables: Onions, celery, and carrots are staples in this soup for flavor and texture. If you don’t have these on hand, leeks and bell peppers work well, too. Feel free to throw in whatever vegetables you have in your fridge!
Chicken Broth: The broth adds depth to the soup. Use homemade if you have it, or low-sodium store-bought for convenience. If you need a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute.
Pasta: Small pasta shapes like bowtie or orzo give a nice bite. However, you can use gluten-free pasta or even quinoa for a healthier grain alternative. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
Flavor is key in this soup! Here’s a simple way to enhance it:
- Start by sautéing the onion, celery, and carrots in olive oil until tender. This base adds incredible flavor.
- Don’t skip browning the ground chicken! This step caramelizes the meat and deepens the overall taste.
- Using quality chicken broth makes all the difference. Taste it before adding salt to avoid over-seasoning.
- Finish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. It really brightens the dish!
Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 3/4 cup small pasta (such as bowtie or orzo)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying it in under an hour! Perfect for a cozy dinner during the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion, diced celery, and diced carrots. Sauté everything together until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 5 minutes. You want them soft but not browned.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. You want the garlic to be fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to add the ground chicken. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through, which will take around 5-7 minutes. This is where all the delicious flavor starts to build!
4. Season and Boil:
Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, along with some salt and pepper to taste. Then, pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juice included). Bring everything to a nice boil.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package directions—this typically takes about 8-10 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente, so keep an eye on it!
6. Add Spinach:
When the pasta is almost finished cooking, stir in the baby spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and lovely. Such a vibrant addition!
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasonings with more salt or pepper, if needed. Then, gently stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, comforting soup hot in bowls. If you like, add grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra cheesy goodness. Enjoy every sip!
This hearty soup is light yet filling, packed with flavor, and perfect for any time of year. Enjoy making and sharing it with your loved ones!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and adds a similar lightness to the soup. Just follow the same cooking instructions.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove.
