Craving comfort? how to make chicken meatball soup that will warm your soul

Craving a comforting and flavorful soup that will nourish your body and soul? Look no further than chicken meatball soup! This classic dish is a culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken meatballs, savory broth, and an array of vegetables. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or simply indulge in a satisfying meal, this guide will take you through every step of how to make chicken meatball soup to perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped potatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Chicken Meatballs

• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, celery, egg, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

2. Brown the Meatballs

• Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.

3. Make the Soup Base

• In the same pot, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, carrots, and potatoes.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the Meatballs

• Once the soup base is ready, add the browned chicken meatballs back to the pot.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

5. Season to Taste

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the chicken meatball soup into bowls and serve hot.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavorful meatballs, use ground chicken that is at least 80% lean.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
• Brown the meatballs thoroughly for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
• If you don’t have time to make your own meatballs, you can use frozen or pre-made meatballs.
• Add other vegetables to your soup, such as green beans, peas, or zucchini.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Meatball Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Italian Chicken Meatball Soup: Use Italian-style bread crumbs and add chopped basil and oregano to the meatball mixture.
• Creamy Chicken Meatball Soup: Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the soup base for a rich and creamy texture.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe.

2. How do I know if the meatballs are cooked through?

Insert a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball. It should read 165°F (74°C).

3. How long can I store leftover chicken meatball soup?

Leftover chicken meatball soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze chicken meatball soup?

Yes, chicken meatball soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.

5. What can I serve with chicken meatball soup?

Chicken meatball soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad.