Imagine a soup so delicious it could transport you straight to an Italian grandmother's kitchen, with tender chicken meatballs floating in a rich, aromatic broth that promises pure comfort in every spoonful. This isn't just another soup recipe - it's a heartwarming journey of flavors that combines simple ingredients into a magical, soul-nourishing experience that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup spinach
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the chicken mixture into small, uniform meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a clean plate and set aside.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced carrots and celery, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and release their aromatics.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the vegetables. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully drop the prepared chicken meatballs into the simmering broth. Allow them to cook for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach leaves to the soup, allowing them to wilt gently.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls, ensuring each portion has meatballs, vegetables, and broth.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- For the most tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the chicken mixture - this prevents them from becoming tough.
- Use a small ice cream scoop or wet hands to create uniform meatballs, ensuring even cooking.
- Check meatball doneness by cutting one in half or using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing them into the meatball mixture.
- Fresh parsley is key for garnish - it adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the entire dish.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to slightly thicken the broth.
- This soup freezes beautifully - make a double batch and save some for a quick, comforting meal later!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 110mg
