If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with Italian-inspired flavors, this One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s easy to make, wholesome, and comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Rich with tender ground chicken, fragrant herbs, fresh veggies, and a luscious creamy finish, this soup feels like a warm Italian hug in a bowl that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the savory, creamy, and vibrant character of this soup. From the juicy ground chicken to the fresh spinach, every addition brings color, texture, or a burst of flavor that makes this soup downright irresistible.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean protein base keeps the soup hearty and satisfying without being heavy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding a smooth richness to the flavor profile.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the pot.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an aromatic punch that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 large carrot, diced: Provides subtle sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a gentle crunch and classic mirepoix flavor foundation.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Imparts that classic Italian herbal tone you expect in every spoonful.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the herbal brightness and rounds out the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat for those who love a little kick.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid that brings the soup together and keeps it light.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free): Delivers smooth creaminess and a silky texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami depth and velvety richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional): Tossed in at the end for vibrancy and a burst of green nutrition.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fragrant finish that adds freshness and color.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground chicken and let it cook while you break it up with a spoon. The goal is to get it nicely browned in about 5 to 7 minutes, which builds a flavorful base for your soup. Don’t rush this step; the browning adds layers to every spoonful.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the chicken looks golden and cooked through, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Sauté everything together for 4 to 5 minutes, until the veggies soften just enough to release their natural sweetness, which perfectly balances the herbs and cream later on.
Step 3: Add the Italian Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes over your softened mixture. Stir everything for about 1 minute to bloom the dried herbs, filling your kitchen with that gorgeous Italian aroma you know and love.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. This slow simmering lets the chicken and vegetables mingle their flavors while softening the carrots and celery to tender perfection.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes more. This step thickens the soup slightly and adds a luxurious creaminess and rich umami flavor that makes you feel like you’re dining in an Italian trattoria.
Step 6: Season and Add Greens
Give your soup a taste test and season with salt and pepper to suit your palate. Now’s the time to stir in the fresh spinach if you’re using it. It will quickly wilt into the warm soup, adding freshness, color, and a boost of healthy greens.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove your pot from the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. That pop of green is as pretty as it is flavorful, and your One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan on top elevates the presentation and taste with bright, herbaceous notes and cheesy richness. For added indulgence, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few chili flakes can also bring depth and warmth.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic knots to help soak up every luscious drop. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creaminess nicely, balancing the meal with a fresh crispness that feels delightfully wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or alongside toasted crostini topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil. You can also turn it into a delightful pasta dish by tossing in a handful of cooked small pasta shapes just before serving, turning the soup into a hearty Italian stew.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. This soup stays delicious and safe to eat for up to 3 days. Flavors actually deepen after resting, making your next meal even better!
Freezing
This soup freezes well but remember that cream-based dishes can sometimes separate. To avoid this, consider freezing the soup before adding cream, then stir the cream in when reheating. Use freezer-safe containers and enjoy your soup within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Warm your soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to keep it creamy and smooth. If needed, add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the texture and prevent it from feeling too thick or heavy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground beef can work well if you want a different flavor or texture. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, especially if the meat is fattier.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this soup?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep it creamy and dairy-free without compromising taste.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Of course. Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce during cooking to amp up the heat. Just start small and adjust to your preferred spice level.
How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?
To please picky eaters, reduce or skip the red pepper flakes and finely chop the veggies so they blend smoother into the broth. You can also add small pasta or rice to make it more filling.
What if I don’t have fresh spinach on hand?
No worries. Frozen spinach works perfectly as a substitute. Just thaw and drain it before stirring in near the end of cooking to avoid excess water.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like coming home. It’s comforting, simple, and bursting with so many lovely flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a quick weeknight dinner, I promise this recipe will become one of your favorites, bringing warmth and smiles with every scoop. Give it a try soon, and let this creamy Italian soup nourish your soul.
Print
One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This comforting One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup combines tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a creamy broth. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal, this soup is easy to prepare and features a delightful blend of Italian flavors with optional fresh spinach for added nutrition.
Ingredients
Meat and Oils
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot and sauté for another 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to fully soften.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
- Season and Add Spinach: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the spinach if using. Stir until the spinach wilts into the soup.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the soup’s spiciness or omit for a milder flavor.
- Fresh spinach is optional but adds vibrant color and nutrients.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you want to control the salt content better.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes nicely for up to 3 months.
