This creamy chicken lasagna soup brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna into a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
The best part? You get to enjoy all the deliciousness without the fuss of layering noodles! I love topping mine with extra cheese and maybe a sprinkle of herbs—so good! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but you can use vegetable or canola oil instead. I prefer olive oil for its flavor and health benefits.
Chicken: Diced chicken breasts work best, but rotisserie chicken can save time. Shredded leftover chicken also fits well in this recipe.
Mushrooms: I like using cremini or button mushrooms for their mild taste. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can skip them or add diced zucchini instead.
Heavy Cream: It creates a rich texture, but half-and-half or coconut milk can be used for a lighter option. Just note that coconut may add some flavor.
Lasagna Noodles: Broken lasagna noodles are traditional here, but you can use any pasta shape you like. Shells or fusilli would work too, just adjust cooking time as needed.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Through?
Cooking chicken properly is important for safety and flavor. Here’s how you can ensure it’s cooked just right:
- When adding chicken to the pot, cook until it’s no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- When in doubt, cut a piece open—it should be white and juicy, not pink or rubbery.
These simple checks will help you serve delicious and safe chicken in your soup!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 chicken breasts, diced or shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (7-8 ounces) lasagna-style pasta noodles, broken into pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken lasagna soup can be made in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are softened and fragrant—this should take another 5 minutes.
2. Add the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the diced chicken. Cook it in the pot, stirring until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside. This helps to lock in the flavors right from the start!
3. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), along with some salt and pepper for seasoning. Give it a good stir to mix everything up.
4. Simmer Everything Together:
Reduce the heat and let the pot simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on the pasta to make sure it’s cooked al dente while the chicken finishes cooking through. This is where all those lovely flavors blend together!
5. Make It Creamy:
After the pasta is cooked, it’s time to add in the heavy cream and the fresh spinach leaves. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing everything to melt together for a creamy and comforting finish. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Now you’re ready to serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top, followed by a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley. If you like, you can also serve it with crusty bread to enjoy alongside your delicious soup. Enjoy your cozy, creamy chicken lasagna soup!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Traditional Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat noodles might require a few extra minutes to cook until al dente.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Yes, feel free to customize your soup! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even carrots can be great additions. Just chop them small and add them when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic so they soften nicely.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
