Introduction
Creamy white chicken lasagna soup is the ultimate comfort food that transforms the classic Italian dish into a warming bowl of soup. Combining the rich flavors of lasagna with tender chicken and a creamy broth, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a satisfying meal. It’s a hearty, delicious option that will leave you wanting more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breast – 1 pound, cooked and shredded
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Onion – 1 medium, diced
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Carrots – 2 medium, diced
Celery – 2 stalks, diced
Chicken broth – 4 cups
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Lasagna noodles – 8 sheets, broken into pieces
Spinach – 2 cups, fresh or frozen
Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper – to taste
Prep Time
Prep time for the creamy white chicken lasagna soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering and preparing all the ingredients before cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this dish is about 30 minutes. Thus, the total time to prepare and serve this soup is approximately 45 minutes. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it an excellent choice for families or meal prepping for the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cooking the chicken in a large pot over medium heat. You can either use rotisserie chicken or cook raw chicken breasts in the pot along with some olive oil until they are fully cooked. Once done, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions become translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of your soup.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in chicken broth and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Pasta
Stir in uncooked lasagna noodles, breaking them into smaller pieces if desired. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Add in cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring until fully incorporated. This will give the soup its creamy texture. Make sure there are no lumps from the cream cheese.
Step 6: Add Spinach
Toss in fresh spinach and let it wilt in the hot soup for a couple of minutes. This will add nutrients and color to your dish.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken lasagna soup!
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
Feel free to use any type of cooked chicken you have on hand, including leftovers or canned chicken for convenience.
Note 2: Cream Cheese
Bring the cream cheese to room temperature before adding it to the soup for easier mixing.
Note 3: Vegetable Variations
You can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
Note 4: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Note 5: Freezing the Soup
This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change. To freeze, make sure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick and efficient cooking technique where ingredients are cooked in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This method enhances the flavors of the ingredients and adds a bit of browning, which helps in developing a rich taste for the soup.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking ingredients gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique helps meld the flavors together and ensures that the chicken is cooked thoroughly while remaining tender.
Layering flavors
Layering flavors is the process of adding ingredients at different stages of cooking to build complexity in a dish. In the case of lasagna soup, adding garlic, herbs, and spices at various points allows each element to shine through.
Whisking
Whisking is essential when incorporating ingredients like cream into the soup. This technique helps to combine the components uniformly, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the dish.
Finishing
Finishing a dish involves adding the final touches before serving. In this recipe, garnishing with fresh herbs or cheese not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds freshness and additional flavor to the soup.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins such as turkey or even make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding extra vegetables.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers for up to three months, and reheat gently while adding a little liquid if necessary.
What can I use instead of cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half, milk, or a non-dairy cream substitute depending on dietary preferences.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry made of cornstarch and water or let it simmer longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to enhance the nutritional value and texture of the soup.
Conclusion
The creamy white chicken lasagna soup is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering a warm, comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and textures. The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and pasta makes it a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy night at home. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a sense of comfort, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Soup
A rich and creamy blend of spinach and ricotta cheese can be a wonderful vegetarian alternative. This soup offers a similar texture and a delightful flavor to complement your meal.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Combine your favorite pasta with chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce for a hearty baked dish that pairs wonderfully with the chicken lasagna soup.
Vegetable Lasagna Soup
For a lighter option, try a vegetable version using various seasonal vegetables, featuring a rich tomato base and dollops of ricotta for creaminess.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks
Serve warm garlic parmesan breadsticks alongside the soup for dipping, enhancing the experience with a crunchy texture and flavorful addition.
Caprese Salad
A fresh caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil can act as a refreshing side, perfectly balancing the richness of the soup.