Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weekdays. With its rich flavors of Italian seasoned ground chicken, garlic, Calabrian chiles, pasta, and peas all enveloped in a creamy lemon ricotta sauce, it stands out as a nourishing option that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning and Calabrian chiles adds a unique kick that elevates the taste.
- Creamy Texture: The addition of ricotta gives the soup a rich creaminess that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level based on your preference.
- Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from ground chicken and fiber from peas, this soup is both filling and healthy.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother. Here are some essential items to gather before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large soup pot
- Food processor or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for browning meat evenly while providing enough space for simmering the soup.
- Food processor or immersion blender: Ensures the ricotta sauce is blended to a smooth consistency without lumps.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious creamy Italian ground chicken soup:
Main 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
- 15 oz (1 3/4 cup) Low Fat Ricotta
- 1/2 cup Milk
- Juice of 2 Lemons + Zest of 1 Lemon
- Black Pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Step 1: Heat the Dutch Oven
Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat with the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken. Leave untouched for 3-4 minutes to brown one side before breaking apart and fully cooking.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
To the fully cooked chicken, add the Italian seasoning, garlic, and Calabrian chiles. Stir everything together and cook for 30-60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Add a few tablespoons of the chicken broth to deglaze the pot if necessary. Then add the pasta and remaining broth. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare Ricotta Sauce
While the pasta cooks, add the ricotta sauce ingredients to a food processor or use an immersion blender. Blend together until smooth and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once the pasta has cooked for 10 minutes, turn off the heat and remove the cover from the pot. Add the frozen peas and stir into the soup until warmed through. Incorporate the ricotta sauce followed by stirring in grated cheese.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately while warm. Garnish with additional grated parmesan, Calabrian chiles, black pepper, fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. If not serving right away, place over low heat to keep warm.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Serving Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and providing a delightful experience for your guests or family. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Grated Parmesan: Top with extra grated Parmesan for an added cheesy touch.
- Calabrian Chiles: For heat lovers, serve with additional chiles on the side.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping, soaking up that creamy goodness.
- Garlic Toast: Garlic toast pairs perfectly with the soup, offering a crunchy contrast.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad can balance the richness of the soup.
Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water adds a refreshing touch.
How to Perfect Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
To achieve the best version of your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs to enhance the flavor profile.
- Control Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of Calabrian chiles based on your preference for spice.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Ensure you follow cooking times closely to prevent mushy pasta in your soup.
- Blend Ricotta Smoothly: Make sure your ricotta is blended until smooth for a creamy texture.
- Add Lemon Last: Stir in lemon juice just before serving to maintain its bright flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add more broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: This classic choice is perfect for dipping into the hearty soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the soup’s richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs makes a great appetizer.
- Cheese Platter: Variety of cheeses can enhance the dining experience and pair well with soup flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
Ignoring the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground chicken properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure you let it sear before breaking it up for optimal taste.
Skipping the Deglazing: Neglecting to deglaze the pot after browning can result in a loss of flavor from the stuck bits. Use a bit of broth to scrape up those delicious morsels!
Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long in the soup can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on it and stir regularly to ensure it stays al dente.
Not Measuring Ingredients: Guessing measurements, especially for seasoning and liquids, can throw off the balance of flavors. Use precise measurements for consistency and taste.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Substituting with inferior cheese can diminish the creaminess and richness of your soup. Opt for freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Freeze in portions using freezer bags or containers.
- It is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or even ground beef if desired. Adjust seasoning accordingly for different meats.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular farfalle or bowtie pasta.
Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped carrots, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and is perfect for meal prep! Just follow proper storage methods outlined above.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. This delightful soup combines seasoned ground chicken, garlic, and Calabrian chiles, all enveloped in a rich lemon ricotta sauce. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep during busy weekdays. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a creamy texture and vibrant flavors that make this soup a comforting staple. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1/2 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 pound Ground Chicken
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 Tablespoon Chopped Calabrian Peppers (optional)
- 4 cups Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth
- 8 oz Farfalle or Bowtie Pasta
- 1 cup Frozen Peas
- 15 oz Low Fat Ricotta
- Juice and Zest of 2 Lemons
- Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and brown for 3-4 minutes before breaking apart.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic, and Calabrian chiles; cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with broth, then add pasta and remaining broth. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend ricotta with milk and lemon juice until smooth; set aside.
- After pasta cooks, stir in peas and the ricotta mixture until warmed through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or extra cheese as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
