CREAMY CHICKEN PASTA SOUP: A HEARTY AND COMFORTING RECIPE

This Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, soft vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta combine to create a warm and hearty meal. Ideal for chilly days or when you’re craving something cozy, this soup comes together in just under 30 minutes with simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.

Follow this step-by-step guide to make a pot of creamy chicken pasta soup, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS CREAMY CHICKEN PASTA SOUP

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with chicken, pasta, and veggies, this soup is a meal on its own.
• Rich and Creamy: A splash of milk or cream adds luxurious texture and flavor.
• Easy to Make: Comes together quickly with minimal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish.
• Customizable: Swap out vegetables, herbs, or pasta to suit your taste.

INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN AND WHY THEY WORK

Cooked, Shredded Chicken (2 cups)

• Adds protein and heartiness to the soup. Rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or poached chicken all work beautifully.

Elbow Pasta (1 cup)

• Short pasta like elbows, ditalini, or small shells is ideal for soups as they cook quickly and hold their shape.

Carrots (1 cup, diced) and Celery (1 cup, diced)

• Classic soup vegetables that add flavor, color, and texture.

Onion (1 small, finely chopped)

• Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the soup.

Chicken Broth (4 cups)

• The savory base of the soup. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

Whole Milk or Cream (1 cup)

• Adds creaminess and richness to the soup. Use heavy cream for a thicker broth or milk for a lighter option.

Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons)

• Used to sauté the vegetables and create a roux for thickening the soup.

All-Purpose Flour (1 tablespoon)

• Combined with butter to form a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it a velvety texture.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

• Adds depth and a touch of savory warmth to the soup.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon) and Dried Parsley (1 teaspoon)

• Classic herbs that complement the chicken and vegetables, adding subtle earthy notes.

Salt and Pepper (to taste)

• Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors in the soup.

Fresh Chives (for garnish)

• Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the finished dish.

STEP-BY-STEP DIRECTIONS: HOW TO MAKE CREAMY CHICKEN PASTA SOUP

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Add 1 small finely chopped onion, 1 cup diced carrots, 1 cup diced celery, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
• Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

• Sprinkle 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables.
• Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth

• Gradually whisk in 4 cups chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Season the Soup

• Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Pasta

• Stir in 2 cups shredded chicken and 1 cup elbow pasta (or your preferred short pasta).
• Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and tender.

Step 6: Add Milk or Cream

• Lower the heat to prevent boiling and stir in 1 cup whole milk or cream.
• Heat through gently, allowing the soup to thicken slightly. Be careful not to let the soup boil, as this can cause the milk or cream to curdle.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light side salad.

TIPS FOR THE BEST CHICKEN PASTA SOUP

1. Cook Pasta Separately for Leftovers
   • If you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual portions before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming soggy as it sits in the broth.
2. Use High-Quality Chicken Broth
   • The flavor of the broth is key to the soup’s success. Use homemade broth if possible, or choose a high-quality store-bought brand.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
   • Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Al dente pasta has a firmer texture and holds up better in the soup.
4. Thicken to Your Liking
   • For a thicker soup, increase the flour to 2 tablespoons or reduce the broth slightly.
5. Customize the Veggies
   • Add spinach, kale, zucchini, or peas for extra vegetables and nutrients.

VARIATIONS TO TRY

1. Cheesy Chicken Pasta Soup
   • Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese at the end for a cheesy twist.
2. Herb-Infused Soup
   • Add a bay leaf or a sprig of fresh rosemary to the broth as it simmers, removing it before serving.
3. Spicy Chicken Pasta Soup
   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Gluten-Free Version
   • Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
5. Vegetarian Option
   • Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add beans or chickpeas for protein.
6. Low-Carb Version
   • Replace the pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH CREAMY CHICKEN PASTA SOUP

This hearty soup pairs perfectly with simple sides:

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty French bread or sourdough is perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds extra flavor and crunch.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A warm, gooey grilled cheese makes for an indulgent pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or broccoli for a healthy side.

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVERS

Storage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Freezing

• This soup freezes well! However, freeze it without the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. Freeze the broth, chicken, and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add freshly cooked pasta.

FAQS ABOUT CREAMY CHICKEN PASTA SOUP

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, shredded chicken breast works just as well.

2. How do I make the soup creamier?

For extra creaminess, use heavy cream instead of milk or stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese.

3. Can I use different pasta?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small shells work wonderfully.

4. How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a non-dairy milk alternative (like almond or oat milk) instead of cream.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Add spinach, kale, peas, or diced zucchini for extra nutrients and variety.

CONCLUSION

This Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is the ultimate bowl of comfort—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. With its tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy broth infused with herbs and aromatics, it’s the perfect choice for cozy nights or when you need a satisfying, one-pot meal.

Whether you follow the recipe as-is or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Pair it with a crusty bread

or fresh salad, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic dish.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful! 😊

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