This creamy chicken pasta soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender chicken, colorful carrots, and fresh spinach, all wrapped up in a rich and comforting broth.
It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. I love serving it with some crusty bread, so I can soak up every last drop. It’s simple and oh-so-tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I enjoy using olive oil for its light flavor and health benefits. However, butter adds a rich taste if you prefer! You can also use ghee or coconut oil as other alternatives, depending on your dietary needs.
Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breast works well, you can use thighs for a richer flavor. Tofu or chickpeas can be great plant-based substitutes if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Pasta: I love using rotini or shells, as they catch the soup’s creamy sauce beautifully. If you have gluten sensitivities, try gluten-free pasta; just adjust cooking times and check the package instructions.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, half-and-half works great. If you want to skip dairy, opt for coconut milk or a non-dairy cream for creaminess; both alternatives work well in this soup.
Cheese: I often go for Parmesan for a nice flavor kick, but mozzarella provides a great melt. For dairy-free alternatives, use cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Cooks Perfectly in the Soup?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial for this soup. Follow these simple steps for juicy chicken:
- Start with small, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and quickly.
- When adding chicken to the pot, make sure it’s cooked until lightly browned to lock in flavor. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before adding other ingredients—this will help avoid any food safety issues.
Lastly, don’t overcook the chicken after adding the broth. It should be tender yet firm, cooking in just the right amount of time.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup With Carrot And Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup pasta (rotini, shells, or any small pasta)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or Parmesan), plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, so expect a total time of around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and comforting enough for a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s softened and becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds until it smells wonderful.
2. Add the Chicken:
Introduce the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté them until they are lightly browned on all sides, around 5 minutes. This will give the chicken beautiful flavor.
3. Mix in Carrots:
Next, add the sliced carrots into the pot, stirring them well to combine with the chicken and aromatics. This will help the flavors marry together.
4. Pour in Chicken Broth:
Now, add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Once the carrots are tender, add your choice of pasta to the soup. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 7-10 minutes, until it is al dente.
6. Create Creamy Flavors:
With the pasta cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), dried basil, dried oregano if using, along with salt and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to let all those flavors blend together.
7. Add Fresh Spinach:
Now it’s time to add in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook them just until they wilt, which will take about 1-2 minutes. This step adds a lovely touch of color and nutrition!
8. Make It Cheesy:
Finally, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and blends into the soup, making it creamy and delicious. Taste the soup and adjust any seasoning if needed.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Your creamy chicken pasta soup is ready to delight! Serve it hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese and fresh parsley or basil on top for that perfect finishing touch.
This soup is not only comforting but also filled with wholesome flavors from carrots, spinach, and tender chicken, all wrapped in a rich, cheesy broth. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with other veggies like bell peppers, peas, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess and prevent the pasta from soaking up all the liquid.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the soup up to step 8 and store it in the fridge. Add the spinach and cheese just before serving to keep them fresh. This way, you can quickly enjoy a comforting bowl whenever you like!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken?
If you’re looking for a meatless option, try using chickpeas or white beans for protein, or even make it with tofu. You can also serve it as a vegetable soup without the chicken and simply enhance the flavors with more herbs!
