Introduction
There’s just something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy soup, especially on a chilly day. This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is like a hug in a bowl, combining rich flavors and hearty textures. With tender ground chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a touch of cream, it perfectly balances nutrition with indulgence. Gather your family around for this delightful dish that is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground chicken. Cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth along with the diced tomatoes (including their juices). Stir well to combine all the lovely ingredients.
- Now, pour in the heavy cream, followed by the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently bring the soup to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once your soup is simmering, add the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts down and brightens the dish.
- Take a moment to taste your creation, adjusting the seasoning as necessary to suit your palate.
- Serve the soup hot, generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra touch of flavor and color.
Notes or Tips
For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when you sauté the vegetables. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the spinach. This soup also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses basic sautéing and simmering techniques. Sautéing helps develop rich flavors, while simmering melds everything together. Don’t rush the cooking times, as they allow the vegetables to soften and the flavors to deepen.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even Italian sausage can be a great substitute and will impart different flavors to your soup.
What veggies can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even peas would make wonderful additions to this soup.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy yet dairy-free option.
Conclusion
This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup not only makes for a cozy meal, but it also brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. With its wholesome ingredients and creamy texture, it embodies the spirit of comfort food. So grab your favorite bowl, serve it up, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade goodness!