Delicious Ground Chicken Soup Recipes – Healthy & Easy to Make

Ground chicken soup is an incredibly versatile and healthy dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light and nourishing broth-based soup or a hearty and filling meal with vegetables and spices, ground chicken can be the perfect protein to build your soup around. Ground chicken is leaner than other types of ground meat, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a healthier meal option that’s still packed with flavor.

This soup is perfect for cozy nights in, meal prepping for the week, or when you’re feeling under the weather and need something comforting. With a few simple ingredients, ground chicken can elevate your traditional soup into something both nutritious and satisfying.

In this article, we’ll explore several variations of ground chicken soup recipes, from a basic chicken soup to a more flavorful, spicy rendition. No matter your preferences, you’ll find a recipe that fits your taste and dietary needs.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before diving into the recipes, you’ll need to have the following equipment on hand to make your soup preparation a breeze:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This will be used for simmering the soup and cooking the ground chicken.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping your vegetables and herbs. A sharp knife makes prepping easier and quicker.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring your ingredients, especially the broth, spices, and seasonings.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup and breaking up the ground chicken as it cooks.
• Soup Ladle: To serve the soup once it’s ready.

Ingredients for Ground Chicken Soup

One of the best things about ground chicken soup is that it’s easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. However, here is a basic list of ingredients for a simple, healthy ground chicken soup.

For the basic version:

• 1 lb ground chicken: This is the main protein. You can choose lean ground chicken or regular ground chicken, depending on your preference.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• 1 onion: Finely chopped, adds a savory depth to the soup.
• 2 garlic cloves: Minced, to infuse the soup with aromatic flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The base of the soup, giving it flavor and moisture.
• 2 medium carrots: Chopped or sliced thinly. Carrots add sweetness and texture to the soup.
• 2 celery stalks: Chopped, for crunch and added nutrients.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds fragrance and flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, these will enhance all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For earthy herbal notes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the other herbs with a savory flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): For a burst of freshness.

How to Make Ground Chicken Soup?

Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground chicken. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This process ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and starts developing a rich, savory flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the chicken is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This adds a savory base to the soup and enhances the overall flavor.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot, stirring to combine. Allow the vegetables to cook for about 5 minutes. The carrots and celery will soften slightly and release their natural sweetness, adding texture and flavor to the soup.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the vegetables time to cook through and for the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the vegetables are tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like a bit of acidity, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for extra brightness. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

Variations of Ground Chicken Soup

While the basic version of ground chicken soup is delicious, there are many ways to customize the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun variations you can try:

1. Ground Chicken Meatball Soup

For a twist on the traditional soup, create small chicken meatballs to add more texture and flavor. To do this, combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, and herbs (such as parsley or oregano). Roll the mixture into small meatballs and add them to the soup in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Let them cook in the broth until they’re fully cooked through.

2. Spicy Ground Chicken Soup

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily spice up your ground chicken soup. Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the pot while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also toss in a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies or some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to give the soup a smoky and spicy flavor.

3. Ground Chicken and Zucchini Soup

For a more vegetable-packed version, add shredded zucchini to the soup. Zucchini softens nicely during cooking and adds a subtle flavor. Simply add the shredded zucchini about 10 minutes before the soup is done simmering. This is a great way to sneak in more vegetables for a nutritious and filling meal.

4. Asian-Inspired Ground Chicken Soup

For an Asian-inspired twist, swap the chicken broth with low-sodium soy sauce and add some ginger, garlic, and sesame oil for flavor. Toss in some sliced mushrooms, bok choy, and rice noodles. You can also sprinkle the soup with cilantro, sesame seeds, and a dash of chili oil for an extra kick.

5. Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup

For a hearty, comforting version, add diced sweet potatoes to the soup. Sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of ground chicken and add a touch of sweetness. Add the diced sweet potatoes along with the carrots and celery, and let them cook until tender. This variation is perfect for fall or winter and will keep you full for hours.

Cooking Notes

• Make-Ahead: Ground chicken soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. More herbs, a bit of cayenne for heat, or additional spices can make the soup uniquely yours.
• Consistency: If you like a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables in the pot with a potato masher to create a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Ground chicken soup can be served in many different ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your soup experience:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a warm slice of crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
• With a Salad: Pair the soup with a light salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance the meal.
• Topped with Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a rich, salty flavor that pairs well with the soup.

Helpful Tips

• Use Lean Ground Chicken: While you can use regular ground chicken, lean ground chicken will yield a lighter soup that’s healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Broth: High-quality chicken broth is essential for creating a flavorful base. If possible, use homemade broth, or opt for a low-sodium store-bought version to control the salt content.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment by adding more vegetables such as spinach, kale, bell peppers, or peas for additional flavor and nutrients.

Tips for the Best Ground Chicken Soup

• Let It Simmer: The longer you let the soup simmer, the more the flavors will develop. If you have extra time, let it cook for an hour or more on low heat.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust your seasonings gradually. Sometimes, just a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper is all you need to elevate the flavor.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

30-40 minutes

Total Time:

40-50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 200-250 (depending on serving size and ingredients)
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground chicken? Yes! You can use frozen ground chicken, but you’ll want to cook it fully before adding the other ingredients. Thawing it first will make it easier to break apart while cooking.

Can I add pasta to the soup? Yes, you can add small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo. Just add the pasta about 10 minutes before the soup is done cooking so it doesn’t overcook.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground chicken and sauté the vegetables in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.

Conclusion

Ground chicken soup is a fantastic, healthy, and easy meal that can be customized to suit all tastes. Whether you like your soup spicy, creamy, or packed with vegetables, there’s a recipe here for you. With its lean protein and hearty vegetables, this soup is the perfect comfort food for any season. So go ahead, grab some ground chicken, and make a delicious pot of homemade soup that your family will love!