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If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal, this Chicken and Pasta Soup Recipe is the answer. This creamy, hearty soup combines tender chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and perfectly cooked ditalini pasta, all enveloped in a luscious broth that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re battling a cold day or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is an easy-to-make dish that checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that allows you to substitute ingredients based on what you have at home!

Ingredients for Chicken and Pasta Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delectable soup:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
8 oz ditalini pasta (or small pasta of choice)
2 medium carrots, sliced

2 cups fresh spinach
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Tip: If you prefer, you can swap ditalini pasta for another small pasta, such as orzo, elbow macaroni, or farfalle.

How to Make Chicken and Pasta Soup

Follow these simple steps to whip up a warm, creamy bowl of chicken and pasta soup:

Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook the pasta: Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the remaining ingredients: Lower the heat and stir in the cooked chicken, fresh spinach, and heavy cream. Mix everything thoroughly and heat the soup through, but avoid bringing it to a boil.

Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Optional: Pair your soup with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken and Pasta Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time:

Use fresh ingredients: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the flavors of this soup.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly in the hot soup.
Prep ingredients in advance: Chop all the vegetables and shred the chicken before you start cooking to make the process seamless.

Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition and variety.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this soup.

Variations and Substitutions

This Chicken and Pasta Soup recipe is highly customizable. Here are some ideas to adapt it to your preferences:

Protein alternatives: Swap the chicken for shredded turkey, ground beef, or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Dairy-free option: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Different pasta shapes: Experiment with other small pasta shapes like shells, bowties, or cavatappi.

Add more greens: Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard can be great substitutes or additions to the spinach.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the soup in advance, here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?: Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe. It’s a convenient option that saves time and adds great flavor.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut milk, or a thickened mixture of milk and butter.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?: Yes, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If reheating in the microwave, do so in short intervals and stir between each interval.
Can I use frozen spinach?: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and drain it before adding to the soup to prevent excess water from diluting the broth.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?: Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving. Alternatively, slightly undercook the pasta when cooking it in the soup.
Can I make this soup in advance?: Yes, you can make this soup in advance. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat as needed. Add fresh spinach during reheating for the best texture.
What other herbs can I use?: Fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary can be used to enhance the flavor. Adjust the quantities based on your preference.
Is this soup kid-friendly?: Yes, this creamy soup is generally loved by kids. If your child is picky about spinach, you can blend it into the broth for a smoother texture.
Can I add cheese to the soup?: Absolutely! A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella can add a deliciously creamy and cheesy element to the soup.
What’s the best type of bread to serve with this soup?: Warm, crusty bread like a baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta pairs wonderfully with this soup. Garlic bread is also an excellent choice.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cream and spinach just before serving.
How can I make this soup healthier?: To lighten the soup, use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream, and increase the amount of vegetables like zucchini, celery, or mushrooms.
What’s a good alternative to olive oil?: You can use butter or avocado oil instead of olive oil. Each will give the soup a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.
Can I double this recipe?: Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate all the ingredients.

Chicken and Pasta Soup Recipe: Creamy, Comforting, and Delicious