If you are searching for a comforting, nourishing bowl that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, velvety cream, hearty pasta, and vibrant spinach, creating a dish that’s both soothing and packed with flavor. Each spoonful offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it an ideal meal for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something effortlessly delicious and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple, yet powerful ingredients is all it takes to bring this soup to life. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken that adds protein and substance, to the fresh spinach that brings a burst of color and nutrients.
- Chicken breast (500 g): Provides lean protein and tender texture, the heart of the soup’s flavor.
- Chicken broth (8 cups): The savory liquid base that infuses depth and warmth into every spoonful.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds an irresistible richness that makes the soup luxuriously smooth.
- Spinach (1 cup): Brings vibrant green color and a mild, fresh taste that balances the creaminess.
- Pasta (1 cup): Small pasta shapes soak up the broth and provide a satisfying bite.
- Onion (1): Builds foundational flavor, offering sweetness and a subtle aromatic punch.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Boosts taste with a gentle pungency that awakens the palate.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the aromatics and sealing in flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors, perfectly seasoning the soup.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Gives an earthy herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir them gently and cook until they’re soft and fragrant—this step releases their natural sweetness and sets a wonderful flavor foundation.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the chicken breast pieces to the pot. Let them cook undisturbed until each side is nicely browned. This process locks in juices and creates a tasty crust that adds complexity to your soup.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring as you go. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is the moment the flavors begin to meld together while the chicken cooks through fully in the savory liquid.
Step 4: Stir in Heavy Cream and Pasta
Add the heavy cream and pasta to the pot, stirring gently to combine. Allow the pasta to cook until al dente, soaking up the creamy broth without becoming mushy—this perfectly balances heartiness and texture.
Step 5: Wilt in the Spinach
Finally, toss in the fresh spinach leaves. They will quickly wilt, infusing the soup with a bright green hue and tender bite that brightens up each spoonful.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Finish by seasoning the soup with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired to make sure all the flavors sing in harmony.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Now your Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe is ready to be ladled into bowls. Serve it hot and relish every comforting mouthful.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of chopped fresh parsley on top. A little drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the overall flavor, making each bite extra special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy broth. Garlic bread or warm biscuits also enhance the meal, providing contrasting textures and satisfying accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a visually stunning presentation, serve the soup in individual hollowed-out bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. Garnish with a sprig of thyme or a swirl of cream to impress guests while keeping it cozy and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days, keeping those wonderful flavors fresh and ready for a quick meal.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe freezes well. For best results, freeze the soup without the cream; add it fresh when reheating to maintain a silky texture. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. If you froze the soup without cream, stir in the cream once warmed through. This method ensures the soup remains luscious and doesn’t separate.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or orzo work best because they cook quickly and blend nicely into the soup’s creamy texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Keep in mind this may subtly change the flavor, adding a slightly different creamy note.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Definitely. Adding pre-cooked chicken will speed up the preparation time. Just add it towards the end of cooking to warm it through without overcooking.
How do I keep the spinach bright green in the soup?
Add the spinach at the final step and allow it to wilt just enough from the residual heat. Overcooking spinach can dull its color and texture, so timing is key.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration or reheating, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth or water to loosen it up without compromising flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully satisfying about a bowl of homemade Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe that comforts both body and soul. It’s an easy-to-make dish that never fails to impress with its rich flavors and nourishing qualities. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or serving guests, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Give it a try—I promise it will warm your heart as much as your belly!
Print
Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken soup with pasta and spinach is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any season. Featuring tender chicken breast pieces simmered in rich chicken broth and heavy cream, combined with nutritious spinach and perfectly cooked pasta, this soup delivers both flavor and nourishment in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 500 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 1 cup pasta (such as small shells or elbow macaroni)
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breast pieces to the pot and brown them evenly on all sides, ensuring they develop a light golden color while cooking through.
- Add chicken broth and simmer: Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize further.
- Incorporate cream and pasta: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of pasta, cooking the soup until the pasta is al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta type.
- Wilt the spinach: Add 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves into the soup, letting them gently wilt and blend into the creamy broth.
- Season the soup: Finally, season the soup with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme to taste, stirring well to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy this warm, creamy chicken and pasta delight.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the soup will be less creamy.
- Use small pasta shapes to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the soup.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green option.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain creaminess.
