If you’ve ever craved something both comforting and bursting with bold Italian flavors, you are going to adore this One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe. It’s the perfect melding of tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, creamy Parmesan, and fresh spinach all simmered together in one pot for an effortless, soul-warming meal. This recipe brings together hearty pasta and silky broth with just the right touch of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup will become your new go-to for a nourishing dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by its simplicity; each ingredient has been thoughtfully selected to build layers of flavor, texture, and color in this soup. From the fragrant herbs to the creamy cheese, these essentials work harmoniously to create a classic Italian taste that’s both comforting and vibrant.
- Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, adding richness and a subtle fruity note.
- Ground chicken: A lean, tender protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors beautifully.
- Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and a soft texture when cooked down.
- Garlic: Adds a fragrant punch that’s essential for that authentic Italian aroma.
- Dried basil and oregano: Classic Italian herbs that infuse the broth with earthy, savory warmth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick that wakes up your palate.
- Salt and black pepper: The basic seasoning that elevates every element in the pot.
- Chicken broth (low-sodium): A flavorful liquid base that deepens the taste without overwhelming the soup.
- Diced tomatoes with juices: Add bright acidity and texture, balancing the creaminess.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety consistency that makes this soup truly indulgent.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings umami depth and a savory, nutty finish.
- Baby spinach: Adds fresh green color and a mild, slightly earthy flavor while boosting the nutrition.
- Small pasta: Like ditalini or elbow macaroni, perfect for soaking up the broth without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, herbal garnish that adds a lovely finishing touch and fresh flavor contrast.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken and Sauté Onions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up into small pieces as you go. This step is crucial because browning creates those flavorful bits that deepen the soup’s taste. Once the chicken has some color, add the diced onions and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become translucent, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Herbs
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let those cook for just about a minute until you can smell the aromas filling your kitchen. This brief step allows the spices to bloom, layering the soup with classic Italian notes that you’ll love.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes; Simmer
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Give everything a good stir, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This liquid base will soon soak up those fantastic flavors, so don’t rush it—let it bubble away, setting the stage for your pasta and creaminess to come.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Until Al Dente
Once the soup is simmering, add your choice of small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite. The pasta will absorb some of the broth, thickening the soup perfectly without losing its texture.
Step 5: Stir in Cream, Parmesan, and Spinach
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Then, toss in the chopped baby spinach and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts beautifully into the soup’s creamy embrace. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, making sure your soup sings with flavor.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnish can elevate your soup from cozy to elegant in seconds. Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of vibrant green color and a fresh herbal note that keeps each spoonful lively. For an extra touch, consider a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even a few red pepper flakes to hint at warmth.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or garlic knots makes the meal complete. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the creamy richness of the soup perfectly, balancing your plate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and garnish with a small sprig of parsley and a twist of freshly ground black pepper. You can also serve it in bread bowls to soak up every last drop, making the experience even cozier and more indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture and fresh flavors. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle stir and consider adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but because of the cream and pasta, texture may change slightly. To freeze, cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat on medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, thin it out with a bit of chicken broth or water to bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well, providing a similarly mild flavor and lean protein. You may want to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the fat content.
Is this soup gluten-free?
This soup can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta. Just make sure the broth and other ingredients you purchase are also labeled gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. Keep in mind the flavor and richness will be different but still delicious.
What pasta works best in this soup?
Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or mini shells are ideal because they cook quickly and nestle nicely in the broth, making each spoonful perfectly balanced.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped kale, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and color. Just add them earlier in the cooking process so they soften properly.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe is truly a kitchen gem. It brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to share with loved ones, this recipe promises to become a favorite staple in your recipe box. Give it a try and enjoy every creamy, comforting spoonful!
Print
One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and creamy Italian-inspired one pot soup featuring ground chicken, tender pasta, and fresh spinach in a savory broth enriched with Parmesan cheese and cream. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this soup combines wholesome ingredients with vibrant Italian flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Extras
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking and no large clumps remain.
- Sauté onion: Add the diced yellow onion to the pot with the browned chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add seasonings and garlic: Stir in minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the spices and garlic to become fragrant.
- Incorporate liquids: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook pasta: Add the small pasta to the simmering soup. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and tender but not mushy.
- Make soup creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the soup is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Add the spinach: Fold in the roughly chopped baby spinach and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and softens.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach to vary the greens.
- Ground turkey is a fine alternative to ground chicken if preferred.
- For a lighter soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- If the soup thickens too much after sitting, add extra chicken broth to loosen the consistency.
