This Italian Ground Chicken Soup is warm and delicious, packed with flavors from herbs and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how easy it is to whip up, and my family enjoys the tasty combination of chicken and veggies. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Using ground chicken is great for a leaner soup. You can swap it with ground turkey or even lean beef for a different flavor. I’ve found that chicken keeps it light and tasty!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best if you have it. Otherwise, low-sodium store-bought works fine. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead, which adds lots of flavor.
Pasta: Small pasta like tortellini is perfect for this soup. If you don’t have it, ditalini, orzo, or even broken spaghetti can work too. For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free pasta.
Vegetables: Celery and carrots add nice crunch and sweetness. Feel free to replace them with peas or bell peppers if you have those on hand. I personally love adding some zucchini for extra nutrition!
How Do You Get the Right Flavor Balance in the Soup?
A key aspect of this soup is layering the flavors right from the start. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil. This will create a savory base. Don’t rush this step; letting them cook until soft and aromatic makes a big difference!
- Cook ground chicken until it’s no longer pink to keep the texture nice.
- When you add the broth and tomatoes, make sure to mix in the herbs well. This allows the flavors to meld.
- Don’t forget to taste the soup near the end to adjust seasonings. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the flavor!
How to Make Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (such as tortellini or ditalini)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh rosemary or basil for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a warm and hearty Italian Ground Chicken Soup ready in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step helps to build a flavorful base for the soup!
2. Cook the Ground Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through, making sure there are no pink spots left.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, stir in the diced celery and carrots. Cook these for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften—this adds nice texture and flavor.
4. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil, and then lower the heat to let it simmer.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Add the small pasta to the pot and cook it according to package instructions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. This will give the pasta a nice tender bite!
6. Add Greens (Optional):
If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 3 minutes of cooking. It should wilt beautifully into the soup.
7. Final Adjustments:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be bursting with flavor!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Top it generously with grated Parmesan cheese, and add some fresh rosemary or basil. If you like a little heat, sprinkle a dash of red pepper flakes on top!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Italian Ground Chicken Soup! It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a warm meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give the soup a similar texture. Just make sure to season it well since turkey can be a bit milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese for serving, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the pasta before freezing, and add it fresh when you reheat!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into small pieces and add them when you incorporate the celery and carrots!