This Italian Ground Chicken Soup is warm and simple, perfect for a cozy day. With tasty chicken, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s a comforting hug in a bowl!
Cooking this soup is a breeze! I love tossing in whatever veggies I have left in the fridge. Plus, it makes the house smell amazing. You might catch me stealing bites while it’s simmering! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the soup. If you can’t find ground chicken, you can use ground turkey or lean ground beef for a different flavor. Just make sure to drain the fat if using beef.
Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing, olive oil adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use cooking spray or a bit of canola oil. I love how olive oil brings out the flavors!
Vegetables: Onions, celery, and carrots are key for a flavorful base. Feel free to switch up veggies based on what you have. Zucchini or bell peppers are great alternatives and can add a different twist!
Pasta: Small shapes like mini shells are best, but you could use any pasta you like. For a gluten-free option, try quinoa or brown rice. Just be mindful of the cooking time.
Spinach: This adds color and nutrition. You can swap it out for kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for an even blend!
How Do I Get the Richest Flavor in My Soup?
Building flavors starts with your sauté. Make sure to cook your onion, celery, and carrots until they’re soft. This usually takes about 5 minutes. The longer you sauté, the deeper the flavor!
- Start with medium heat and add your oil, then vegetables.
- After adding garlic, don’t rush; let it cook for a minute until it’s fragrant.
- When adding the canned tomatoes, include all the juices for extra flavor!
- Let your soup simmer for at least 10 minutes to combine all the wonderful flavors.
Trust me, these little steps make a big difference in the final taste of your soup!
Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups small pasta shapes (like mini shells or ditalini)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wholesome soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. Just about 45 minutes total before you can dig into a warm, delicious bowl!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté them together until they soften up—this should take about 5 minutes. It’s like creating a cozy flavor base!
2. Add Garlic and Chicken:
Once your veggies are softened, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until you smell that lovely aroma. Then, add the ground chicken. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. No pink should be showing!
3. Stir in the Tomatoes and Spices:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (don’t forget those juices!), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a little spicy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors come together nicely.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add your small pasta shapes into the bubbling soup. Cook them until they’re al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes (just check the package for timing). Your kitchen will smell amazing by now!
5. Final Touches:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to cook for just a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts down into the soup. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve it Up:
It’s time to serve! Ladle your scrumptious soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if you’d like. Enjoy your heartwarming meal with crusty bread on the side for a perfect finish!
This Italian Ground Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also healthy. You’ll love how fulfilling it feels! 🌿
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer, feel free to substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef for the ground chicken. Just be sure to drain any excess fat if you decide to use beef for a healthier option.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, swap out the ground chicken for plant-based ground meat, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add in more veggies and legumes like lentils or chickpeas for added protein.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months!
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Definitely! This soup is very flexible. Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand, like zucchini, bell peppers, or frozen peas. Just add them during the sauté step or a bit earlier to ensure they’re cooked through!