Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian herbs, tender ground chicken, and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With the addition of pasta and peas, it offers a complete meal in a bowl. The unique blend of ingredients makes it stand out among traditional soups, ensuring everyone will love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and Calabrian chiles packs this soup with a delicious punch.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- Nourishing: Packed with protein from ground chicken and fiber from peas, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
- Comforting: The creamy lemon ricotta sauce adds a comforting richness that warms you from the inside out.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make preparing Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large soup pot
- Food processor or immersion blender
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
- Food processor or immersion blender: Helps create a smooth ricotta sauce quickly without much cleanup.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping garlic and other fresh ingredients safely and efficiently.
Ingredients
Italian seasoned ground chicken with garlic and Calabrian chiles, pasta, and peas in a creamy lemon ricotta cheese sauce.
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: Cook the Ground Chicken
Heat a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat with the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken and 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 large cup. Blend with an immersion blender 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. Incorporate them until heated through. Then add 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 on low heat to keep warm.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Slice and serve alongside the soup for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted with butter and garlic makes a flavorful pairing.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a burst of flavor.
- Chopped Parsley: This brings a bright color and freshness to your bowl.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Shavings: A generous handful enhances the creamy texture.
- Feta Crumbles: Adds a tangy flavor contrast to the rich soup.
As an Entree
- Served Over Rice: For heartiness, serve the soup over steamed rice.
- With Salad: A light green salad complements the richness of the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
To ensure your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t Skip Browning the Chicken: This step adds depth and richness to the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, especially with salt and pepper, to reach desired flavor.
- Blend Ricotta Smoothly: Ensure no lumps remain for a creamy texture in your soup.
- Serve Immediately for Best Flavor: The soup tastes best when fresh, so serve right after cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots flavored with garlic are perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons complements the creamy flavors.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection add texture and nutrients alongside your meal.
- Polenta Cakes: Soft polenta cakes offer a comforting addition that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
- Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto serves as an indulgent side that enhances the overall dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the browning step: Not allowing the ground chicken to brown can lead to a bland flavor. Always let it cook untouched for a few minutes before breaking it apart.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy in the soup. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure perfect texture.
- Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can result in a lackluster soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper for depth of flavor.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can diminish the flavor of your soup. Always opt for fresh garlic, herbs, and cheese for the best results.
- Ignoring the ricotta blending: If you don’t blend the ricotta sauce well, it may remain lumpy. Use a food processor or immersion blender to achieve a smooth consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
- Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup that may help clarify your cooking process:
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef if preferred.
What if I can’t find Calabrian chiles?
You can use crushed red pepper flakes as a substitute for heat, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How do I make this soup dairy-free?
Replace ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate spinach, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
How should I serve this soup?
Serve it warm with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup
Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender ground chicken, creamy ricotta, and zesty Italian herbs. This delicious soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the addition of pasta and peas, it’s not just a soup but a complete meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and Calabrian chiles for an extra kick, every spoonful is satisfying and rich in flavor. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or garnishing it with fresh herbs, this creamy soup is sure to become a favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
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
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ground chicken for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic, and Calabrian chiles; cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze with chicken broth, add pasta, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
- Blend ricotta, milk, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Stir in frozen peas until heated; mix in the ricotta sauce and grated cheese.
- Serve warm with garnishes as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
