One Pot Creamy Italian Ground Chicken Soup – Easy, Comforting & Flavorful

Warm Welcome & Hook

There’s something magical about a pot of soup simmering on the stove—especially when it’s creamy, cozy, and packed with Italian flavor. This one-pot creamy chicken soup is the kind of comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl. With tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and a velvety broth, it’s perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or meal prep that actually excites you. The best part? Minimal dishes. Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. I first made this on a rainy Tuesday, and it instantly became a family favorite. It’s hearty without being heavy, and the balance of cream, broth, and herbs makes every spoonful satisfying. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or feeding a hungry crew, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and ease.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This soup checks all the boxes: high-protein, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Ground chicken adds lean protein and a satisfying texture, while the creamy broth brings richness without overwhelming. Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme infuse every bite with depth and warmth. And because it’s a one-pot wonder, cleanup is minimal—just what you need after a long day. Want to make it your own? Toss in pasta, swap the cream, or add veggies. It’s forgiving and flexible. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous palates, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is secretly wholesome. One taste and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Ingredient Highlights

This soup is built on simple, flavorful ingredients. Ground chicken forms the hearty base, while onion, garlic, celery, and carrots create a classic aromatic foundation. Italian herbs—think oregano, basil, and thyme—add depth and warmth. Chicken broth provides savory richness, and a splash of cream brings velvety texture. Diced tomatoes add brightness, and fresh spinach or kale offers a pop of green. Parmesan cheese ties it all together with a salty, nutty finish. Tip: Use fresh herbs and high-quality Parmesan for a truly elevated flavor. These pantry-friendly staples come together in a way that feels both rustic and refined.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the Chicken In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and ground chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots until softened—about 5–7 minutes.
3. Deglaze the Pot Pour in a splash of chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This step adds incredible depth of flavor.
4. Add Broth & Tomatoes Return the chicken to the pot. Add remaining chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10–15 minutes.
5. Stir in Cream & Cheese Lower the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Let it warm through—don’t boil, or the cream may curdle.
6. Optional Greens Add a handful of spinach or chopped kale. Stir until wilted.
7. Taste & Serve Adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.

Bold Tip: Deglazing the pot with broth after browning the chicken captures all those flavorful bits—don’t skip it!

Flavor Variations & Customizations

This soup is a blank canvas for creativity. Want it heartier? Add pasta—bowtie, orzo, or small shells work beautifully. Prefer a lighter version? Swap heavy cream for ricotta or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. Craving heat? Stir in Calabrian chiles, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with mushrooms, lentils, or white beans. For extra depth, try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can add a seasonal touch. Even the broth is flexible—use veggie broth for a plant-based version or bone broth for added nutrition. The beauty of this soup is its adaptability. Mix and match based on what’s in your fridge or pantry, and you’ll never get bored. Each variation brings a new personality to the bowl, making it perfect for repeat cooking with fresh twists.

Quick Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the chicken—brown it just until cooked through to keep it juicy.
• Deglaze the pot after browning to capture all the flavor.
• Stir cream in slowly over low heat to prevent curdling.
• Taste before serving—adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
• Use fresh Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
• Add greens last to preserve color and texture. These small steps make a big difference in flavor and texture, ensuring your soup is rich, balanced, and satisfying every time.

Serving Suggestions