Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach

Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious recipe perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This soup combines tender, cooked chicken with a rich, creamy broth, perfectly cooked pasta, and fresh spinach, resulting in a comforting, hearty dish that can be on your table in under 30 minutes.

The combination of cheeses, cream, and chicken broth creates a smooth, velvety base, while the diced vegetables add freshness and texture. This recipe is versatile: you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, swap in your favorite small pasta, or adjust the cream and cheese to taste.

Why This Chicken Pasta Soup Stands Out

What makes this recipe special is its balance of nutrition and flavor. The chicken provides high-quality protein, the spinach adds iron and vitamins, and the small pasta creates satisfying carbs. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a dish that both kids and adults will love, while remaining simple enough for everyday cooking.

Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Every ingredient contributes to the depth and comfort of the soup:

• 1 lb (450g) cooked, shredded or chopped chicken breast (rotisserie works great for speed)
• 4 cups (1 L) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and fresh black pepper
• 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
• 2 cups chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
2. Add chicken: Stir in cooked chicken and continue cooking for 3 minutes, allowing it to warm through and absorb flavors.
3. Build the creamy base: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Cover the pot and bring to a gentle boil, cooking for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cook the pasta and cheese: Lower the heat, add uncooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer until the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness.
5. Add spinach: Stir in chopped spinach toward the end of cooking, letting it wilt gently into the soup.
6. Season and serve: Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Serve in bowls and optionally top with parmesan cheese.

This creamy chicken soup is rich, comforting, and loaded with fresh vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Best Results

• Use rotisserie chicken for speed and added flavor.
• Small pasta shapes like ditalini, macaroni, or shells work best for an even texture.
• Adjust creaminess: Add more cream or cheese for a richer soup, or reduce for a lighter option.
• Make-ahead friendly: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later.

Nutrition Highlights (per serving)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 26 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 720 mg
• Sugar: 4 g

Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition, and it can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes.

Print