If you are craving a cozy dinner that combines all the heartiness of lasagna with the ease and comfort of soup, you have found your next favorite meal. The Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe turns traditional lasagna into a luscious, creamy, and flavorful bowl. It brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, vibrant spinach, and a cheesy blend that will have you reaching for seconds and thirds. Every spoonful wraps you in rich textures and Italian-inspired aromas that feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in giving this soup its incredible depth of flavor, creamy texture, and appealing color. From the richness of butter to the brightness of fresh spinach, these essentials come together beautifully.
- 2.5 tbsp butter: Using unsalted butter, like Kerrygold, adds a luscious richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 onion (finely diced): Provides a sweet, aromatic base that builds savory complexity.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts the savory notes with its pungent warmth.
- 2.5 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the soup with classic Italian herbs.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances every ingredient, balancing the soup’s profile.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle kick of heat and spice.
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes: For a gentle warmth that complements the creaminess.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together; choosing a good-quality broth like Swanson less sodium is key.
- 1 lb chicken (cut into 1-inch bite-sized chunks): The hearty protein star that makes this soup satisfyingly filling.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, julienne cut): Adds sweet, tangy bursts and rich texture complexity.
- 2 cups pasta: The comforting carb that mimics traditional lasagna noodles in every spoonful.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Gives the soup its creamy, silky texture without being too heavy.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch: The secret thickener that ensures this soup has that perfect, hearty lasagna consistency.
- 1 cup spinach: Brings fresh green color and a healthy punch of nutrients.
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth and a warm earthiness.
- Ricotta cheese: A creamy dollop to finish each bowl with luscious richness.
- Parmesan cheese: For a sharp, nutty topping that enhances the overall flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese (whole milk preferred): Melts beautifully into the soup to provide that signature cheesy stretch.
How to Make Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This is where the base flavor of your soup begins, so let those aromatics slowly release their magic without burning.
Step 2: Season and Add Broth
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes to the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir to coat everything with those spices, then pour in the chicken broth. The broth will start the cooking process for the chicken and infuse the soup with a warm herbal essence.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the simmering broth. Allow them to cook through fully, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so each piece cooks evenly. This step ensures tender chicken that soaks up the tomato and herb-rich base.
Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pasta
Stir in the julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes along with the pasta. The sun-dried tomatoes offer bursts of tang and chewy texture, while the pasta adds comforting substance reminiscent of lasagna noodles. Cook until the pasta is al dente, usually around 8 minutes.
Step 5: Thicken and Add Creaminess
In a small bowl, whisk the half-and-half with cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This thickens the broth and transforms it into a creamy, luscious base that feels indulgent yet fresh.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Spices
Gently fold in the spinach and sprinkle the smoked paprika into the soup. As the spinach wilts, it contributes a lovely pop of color and a mild earthiness, balancing the creamy and cheesy notes perfectly.
Step 7: Cheese it Up
Just before serving, stir in some shredded mozzarella for a gooey melt. When you ladle the soup into bowls, add a generous dollop of ricotta and a sprinkle of parmesan on top. These finishes make the soup feel just like your favorite Italian lasagna in a bowl.
How to Serve Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate every spoonful, top with fresh basil leaves or freshly cracked black pepper. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a bright contrast, while extra parmesan cheese always makes for an irresistible finish.
Side Dishes
This soup shines with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through its richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up all the creamy goodness and making the meal complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a small ramekin of ricotta on the side for guests to add. You can layer it with some toasted breadcrumbs for crunch or carefully ladle it over a small toasted bread round in each bowl for an interactive, cozy meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to enjoy it later. Freeze in smaller portions to make reheating easier. When freezing, avoid adding fresh spinach or cheese—add them back fresh upon reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth or half-and-half if the soup thickens too much. Finish by adding fresh spinach and a sprinkle of cheese to revive that just-made creaminess and color.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves time and adds deliciously cooked chicken to your soup. Just shred it and add it after the broth has come to a simmer.
What pasta works best in Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work wonderfully, offering the perfect bite-size element that mimics lasagna noodles without overwhelming the soup.
Is this soup very spicy due to the chili flakes?
The red chili flakes add just a gentle warmth that balances the richness without overpowering it. You can always adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I make this soup vegan or vegetarian?
You can substitute vegetable broth, omit the chicken, and use plant-based cheeses and milk alternatives. Tofu or hearty mushrooms could replace the chicken for protein, though the flavor will change from the original.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy and slightly thick, similar to the consistency of traditional lasagna sauce but more fluid, perfect for sipping with a spoon.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe that this Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe is a game-changer when you want all the indulgence of lasagna without the fuss of layering noodles and sauce. Warm, cheesy, and packed with vibrant ingredients, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that cozy comfort in every bowl!
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Best Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Best Chicken Lasagna Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines all the delightful flavors of classic lasagna in a warm, satisfying soup form. Featuring tender chicken chunks, Italian herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and plenty of cheeses, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2.5 tbsp unsalted butter (such as Kerrygold)
- 1 onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably less sodium, such as Swanson)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, cut into 1-inch bite-sized chunks
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed and julienne cut
- 2 cups pasta (small shapes like elbow or shells recommended)
- 1 cup spinach
Dairy and Thickening
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- Ricotta cheese, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (preferably whole milk mozzarella, such as Galbani)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the 2.5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red chili flakes, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their aroma.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and sauté until they are lightly browned on all sides but not necessarily cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and add the sun-dried tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
- Thicken Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it, stirring constantly. Allow the soup to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in the fresh spinach and mozzarella cheese, allowing the cheese to melt and the spinach to wilt.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- Use small pasta shapes that hold up well in soup, like elbow macaroni or small shells.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are not oil-packed, rehydrate them in warm water before adding.
- Adjust chili flakes to your spice preference or omit for a milder soup.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
- For a thicker soup, increase cornstarch to 3 tablespoons.
