Spicy Ground Dark Meat Chicken Soup with Beans and Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground dark meat chicken
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow, or shells)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Spices & Tomatoes: Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then add diced tomatoes.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Add Beans & Pasta: Stir in the beans and pasta. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Finish & Serve: Return the cooked ground chicken to the pot, stir in lemon juice (if using), and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.