Description
This Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken breast is simmered in a flavorful chicken broth, then enriched with heavy cream and complemented by tender pasta and fresh spinach. The sautéed onions and garlic add depth, while thyme brings a subtle herbal note. This soup is a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Dairy
- 500 g chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 8 cups chicken broth
Grains and Pasta
- 1 cup pasta (small shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini preferred)
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Heat oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics and browning the chicken.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their flavors.
- Brown the chicken: Add the diced chicken breast pieces to the pot and cook them until browned on all sides, locking in flavor and texture.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, which forms the base of the soup.
- Add cream and pasta: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup pasta, letting the pasta cook until it reaches al dente texture, absorbing the flavor of the broth.
- Add spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pot, allowing it to wilt gently into the creamy soup.
- Season: Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, adjusting to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the creamy chicken soup into bowls and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use small-shaped pasta for best results to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- You can add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent cream from curdling.