Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup is a hearty and delicious dish that combines the comforting flavors of classic lasagna with the warmth and richness of a creamy soup. This soup brings together tender pieces of chicken, lasagna noodles, and a rich, cheesy broth, making it an ideal choice for cold weather. It’s a cozy and filling meal that’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something soothing yet satisfying. With its blend of Italian-inspired flavors and creamy texture, this soup offers a unique twist on traditional lasagna, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to spice up your weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing dish for a cozy gathering, this Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup is sure to delight.

Key Ingredients Overview

Chicken:
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook quickly, while thighs offer a richer flavor. You can poach the chicken in the broth for extra flavor, then shred it once it’s fully cooked. Alternatively, leftover or rotisserie chicken can be used for a quicker preparation.

Lasagna Noodles:
Traditional lasagna noodles work well in this soup. Break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces before adding them to the pot. This makes the noodles easier to eat and ensures they cook evenly in the soup. You can also use other pasta shapes like bow-tie or mini shells if you prefer a different texture.

Cheeses:
Cheese is key to achieving the creamy texture that defines this soup. Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a smooth and stringy consistency, while Parmesan adds a savory depth. Ricotta is stirred in to add richness and a slight sweetness. Combining these cheeses gives the soup its signature creamy and cheesy flavor.

Vegetables:
Classic soup vegetables like onions and garlic create a flavorful base. Adding a few handfuls of fresh spinach gives the soup a pop of color and extra nutrients. For a sweeter, more complex flavor, you can include carrots or bell peppers as well.

Cream Base:
To achieve a rich, creamy soup, use heavy cream or half-and-half. Heavy cream will create the richest, thickest texture, while half-and-half is a lighter alternative that still adds creaminess. For a lighter version, whole milk can be used, but it might be less thick.

Broth Base:
Chicken broth or stock forms the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Use a good-quality broth for the best taste, whether store-bought or homemade. The broth combines with the cheeses and cream to create a rich, savory base that complements the other ingredients.

Seasonings:
Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme bring out the classic flavors of lasagna in soup form. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, while red pepper flakes can be added for a touch of heat. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil at the end gives a fresh finish to the soup.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Start by cooking the chicken using either poaching or sautéing. To poach, place chicken breasts or thighs in a pot of simmering water or broth, cooking for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. For sautéing, heat a bit of oil in a large pot, add the chicken, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Once done, let the chicken cool slightly before using two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside to add later in the recipe.

Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables In the same pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. These sautéed vegetables create a flavorful base for the soup. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. At this point, you can also add other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 3: Adding Broth and Seasonings Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze any bits of flavor. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the broth and adjust the seasonings if needed—adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, if desired.

Step 4: Cooking the Noodles Once the broth is well-seasoned, add the broken lasagna noodles directly into the pot. Cook the noodles until they are tender but still slightly firm, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they will continue to soften slightly even after the soup is finished. If the soup becomes too thick as the noodles cook, you can add a little extra broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.

Step 5: Incorporating the Cream Base Reduce the heat to low before adding the cream base to prevent curdling. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half slowly, mixing continuously to create a smooth, creamy texture. If using milk, add it gently and stir well. To ensure the cream doesn’t separate, avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream. Let it simmer gently until everything is well combined, adjusting the consistency with a splash of extra cream or broth if needed for a rich and velvety texture.

Step 6: Adding Shredded Chicken and Cheeses Stir the shredded chicken back into the soup, allowing it to heat through. Add spoonfuls of ricotta cheese, stirring until it blends into the creamy broth. Gradually add shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt completely and integrate into the soup, creating a luscious, cheesy base. Taste the soup one last time and adjust any final seasonings if needed. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan for garnish.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup

Achieving the Right Texture: To strike the perfect balance between creaminess and broth, use heavy cream for richness or half-and-half for a lighter version. If the soup is too thick, add extra broth in small amounts until you reach your desired consistency.
Making It Healthier: Replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy option. Using lean chicken breasts instead of thighs can also reduce the fat content.
Flavor Boosters: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a dash of balsamic vinegar or a splash of white wine before adding the broth. Fresh herbs like basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give the soup an extra pop of flavor.

Freezing and Storing Tips: To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if needed to loosen the texture.

Variations of the Recipe

Vegetarian Option: Make this soup vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Substitute the chicken with hearty mushrooms like cremini or portobello, or add protein-rich white beans like cannellini for a filling alternative.
Spicy Version: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken to give the soup a bolder flavor.

Dairy-Free Alternative: Use full-fat coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream for a dairy-free version that still offers a rich texture. For the cheeses, opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives like almond-based ricotta and plant-based mozzarella.
Gluten-Free Modification: Replace traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles or other gluten-free pasta options like rice noodles. This adjustment ensures that those with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy the comforting taste of this creamy soup.

Serving Suggestions

Top your Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra richness. Serve it with crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette on the side to soak up the flavorful broth. For a complete meal, pair the soup with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or serve alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus. This soup is versatile enough to be the centerpiece of a family dinner or a cozy option for a romantic meal for two. For gatherings, consider serving it in a slow cooker to keep it warm throughout the meal.

FAQs about Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in advance. The flavors often deepen when it sits in the fridge for a day. To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
What if my soup is too thick or thin?
If the soup is too thick, add additional chicken broth or water in small amounts until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken or add a bit more shredded cheese.
Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply shred the chicken and add it in Step 6 when you add the cheeses, allowing it to warm through without overcooking.

What can I do if my cream curdles?
To prevent curdling, add the cream slowly and avoid boiling the soup after the cream is added. If curdling occurs, blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth or stir in a little extra cream.

Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup

Author: Munil

Print Recipe

Description

Here’s a cozy recipe for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Soup, combining all the comforting flavors of lasagna in a hearty and creamy soup form. It’s a great way to enjoy lasagna without all the layering, perfect for chilly days!

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese in 20-30 second intervals until it’s very soft, making it easier to melt into the soup later.

2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.

3️⃣ Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and Italian seasoning, cooking for 5-6 minutes or until the mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates.

4️⃣ Thicken with Flour: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about a minute until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden.

5️⃣ Add Broth and Cream: Gradually pour in the first 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to dissolve the flour. Add the remaining 4 cups of broth, then stir in the heavy cream.

6️⃣ Cook the Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Partially cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom.

7️⃣ Add Chicken and Cream Cheese: Stir in the shredded chicken and softened cream cheese (cut into smaller pieces for faster melting). Increase the heat slightly to help the cream cheese melt, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy (about 3-5 minutes).

8️⃣ Finish with Parmesan and Spinach: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Let the cheese melt and the spinach wilt for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9️⃣ Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of extra broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes. It will thicken as it sits due to the noodles absorbing the broth.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for white beans or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Customize Your Noodles: Use any pasta you have on hand if you don’t have lasagna noodles, such as bow ties or penne.

Make It Lighter: Reduce the amount of cream cheese or use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.