Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
If you’re searching for a hearty and comforting dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, look no further than this Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. This delightful soup combines the rich flavors of Italian seasoning, tender ground chicken, and creamy ricotta to create a bowl of goodness that’s not only filling but also satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe is a must-try!
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for comforting meals. My grandmother had a way of turning simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes, and her Italian-inspired recipes always brought warmth to our hearts and homes. This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is inspired by those cherished moments, bringing together flavors that remind me of family gatherings and laughter shared over steaming bowls of soup.
What Makes This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out not just for its delicious flavor but also for its versatility. The combination of ground chicken and Italian seasonings creates a savory base, while the addition of ricotta sauce brings a creamy texture that elevates the dish. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, making it adaptable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal or a healthy option, this soup checks all the boxes!
The Full Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped Calabrian peppers (optional)
- 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz farfalle or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup (170g) frozen peas
- 2 oz Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan, freshly grated
- For the Ricotta Sauce:
- 15 oz (1 3/4 cups) low-fat ricotta
- 1/2 cup milk
- Juice of 2 lemons + zest of 1 lemon
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the ground chicken and let it brown for 3-4 minutes without stirring. This helps develop a nice sear. Then break it apart and cook until fully done, about 5-7 minutes total.
- To the cooked chicken, add Italian seasoning, garlic, and Calabrian chiles. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring occasionally to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Deglaze the pot with a few tablespoons of chicken broth if needed, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Then, add the pasta and the remaining chicken broth. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, blend the ricotta sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- After 10 minutes, turn off the heat, uncover the pot and add the frozen peas. Stir to incorporate and slightly cool the soup. Then, add the ricotta sauce and grated cheese, stirring well until everything is combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan, Calabrian chiles, black pepper, fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Keep warm over low heat if not serving immediately.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
This soup is delicious as is, but feel free to make it your own! Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, substitute ground chicken with plant-based crumbles. You can also add a handful of fresh spinach for extra greens, enhancing both the nutrition and flavor of the soup. Experiment with different pasta shapes or add in seasonal vegetables for a delightful twist!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to add the pasta fresh when reheating to maintain its texture.
Is this soup gluten-free? To make this soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the chicken broth as well for gluten-free certification.
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large soup pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped Calabrian peppers optional
- 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz farfalle or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 oz Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan, freshly grated
Ricotta Sauce Ingredients
- 15 oz low-fat ricotta
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 1 lemon zest
- black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the ground chicken and let it brown for 3-4 minutes without stirring. This helps develop a nice sear. Then break it apart and cook until fully done, about 5-7 minutes total.
- To the cooked chicken, add Italian seasoning, garlic, and Calabrian chiles. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring occasionally to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Deglaze the pot with a few tablespoons of chicken broth if needed, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Then, add the pasta and the remaining chicken broth. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, blend the ricotta sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- After 10 minutes, turn off the heat, uncover the pot and add the frozen peas. Stir to incorporate and slightly cool the soup. Then, add the ricotta sauce and grated cheese, stirring well until everything is combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan, Calabrian chiles, black pepper, fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Keep warm over low heat if not serving immediately.