If you are searching for the ultimate comforting dish that blends the heartiness of lasagna with the warmth of soup, you have to try this Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken and Spinach Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining tender chicken, gooey cheese, and fresh spinach in a silky broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for cooler evenings or any time you need a satisfying, soul-warming meal, this soup takes under an hour to make and is packed with layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for seconds and thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together to create layers of flavor in this dish, each playing an essential role. From the savory chicken to the creamy cheeses and fresh spinach, these components build a rich, delicious soup that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
- 3 tbsp salted butter: Creates a rich base and helps thicken the soup when combined with flour.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Essential for making the roux that gives the soup its creamy texture.
- 3 small carrots, diced or sliced: Adds a subtle sweetness and lovely color contrast.
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds depth and a gentle onion flavor that rounds out the broth.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth.
- 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herb blend that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tsp red chili flakes: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the creamy base.
- 1/4 tsp fresh grated nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the creaminess with subtle warmth.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper: For seasoning that highlights all ingredients well.
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that keeps the soup hearty but light.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for shredding into the soup.
- 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces: Mimics the texture of classic lasagna pasta fragments.
- 1 cup frozen whole leaf spinach, thawed and drained: Adds vibrant color and nutritious greens.
- 1 cup half and half (or whole milk or heavy cream): Boosts the creamy richness without heaviness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible stringy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated or shredded parmesan: Adds savory sharpness that balances the creaminess.
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature: Creates the luscious, silky mouthfeel that defines the soup.
How to Make Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Start by melting the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. This forms the creamy foundation that will thicken your soup perfectly. Next, add diced carrots, onions, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and a pinch of fresh nutmeg. Stir and cook for a few minutes until everything is fragrant and the veggies begin to soften, unlocking their natural flavors that will develop throughout the soup.
Step 2: Simmer the Chicken and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and gently nestle the chicken thighs into the pot. Season with appropriate amounts of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper, then cover and let it simmer on medium heat for about 20 to 25 minutes. The slow simmer allows the chicken to become tender and infuses the broth with irresistible savory goodness.
Step 3: Shred Chicken and Add Pasta and Spinach
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, use two forks to shred it finely right in the pot or carefully remove it to shred and return it. Bring the soup to a boil on high heat, then stir in the broken lasagna noodles and thawed spinach. Let it cook until the noodles are tender, around 8 to 10 minutes, making sure each bite is filled with the lovely textures of pasta and greens.
Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Cheeses
Turn the heat down and carefully add the half and half along with shredded mozzarella, parmesan, and room temperature cream cheese. Stir gently but continuously until the cheeses melt fully, blending into the broth and thickening it into a luxuriously creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you feel it’s too thick, a splash of additional broth or water can help perfect the texture.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Serve Hot
Allow your soup to cool slightly for about 10 minutes—this helps the flavors meld even more and makes it safe to enjoy. Serve it warm, and prepare for the compliments to fly as everyone digs into this cozy, creamy masterpiece.
How to Serve Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your bowl by sprinkling freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness. A sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a lovely finishing touch that makes every spoonful feel special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots that allow you to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can also lighten the meal, balancing the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken and Spinach Recipe in rustic bowls with a few toasted lasagna noodle shards on top for texture. For a fun twist at a dinner party, serve small portions in mini mason jars or espresso cups as an elegant appetizer that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover soup in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Leave out the noodles when freezing if possible, as they can become mushy; add fresh pasta when reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove to prevent scorching. Stir occasionally and add broth or milk if the soup thickens too much while warming back up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but thighs tend to remain juicier and more tender after shredding, which adds richness to the soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the chicken, or use plant-based chicken alternatives to keep it hearty and delicious.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free alternatives for the half and half, cream cheese, and shredded cheeses. Nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor if you want to keep it vegan.
How spicy is this soup with the red chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a mild heat that complements the creamy broth without overwhelming it. You can adjust the amount or omit entirely based on your heat tolerance.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Fresh spinach works great! Just add it near the end of cooking to wilt it gently, keeping that vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken and Spinach Recipe is a warm, satisfying dish that brings all the best parts of lasagna into a cozy soup form. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want something that feels homemade and comforting without too much fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen as it has become in mine!
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Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Chicken and Spinach Recipe
This Hearty and Creamy White Lasagna Soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and warm broth with gooey cheeses for a delicious twist on traditional lasagna. Ready in under an hour, this comforting soup is perfect for cozy meals and features broken lasagna noodles, spinach, and a creamy blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour
- 3 small carrots, diced or sliced
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/4 tsp fresh grated nutmeg or pinch of ground nutmeg
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 8–10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen whole leaf spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup half and half (or whole milk or heavy cream)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
Instructions
- Make the roux and sauté vegetables: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the flour. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Then add the diced carrots, onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, and nutmeg. Stir together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and the vegetables start to soften.
- Add broth and chicken, simmer: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the pot, and season with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Cover the pot and simmer on medium heat for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Once done, shred the chicken directly in the pot or remove it to shred before returning it to the soup.
- Cook noodles and add spinach: Increase heat to high to bring the soup to a boil. Stir in the broken lasagna noodles, thawed spinach, and half and half. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add cheeses and finish soup: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and softened cream cheese. Mix carefully until the soup becomes thick, creamy, and all the cheeses are fully melted and combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup becomes too thick, thin it with extra broth or water to your desired consistency.
- Cool slightly and serve: Allow the soup to cool for about 10 minutes to let flavors meld and the soup to thicken slightly. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy white lasagna soup.
Notes
- You can substitute half and half with whole milk or heavy cream depending on your desired richness.
- Breaking the lasagna noodles into smaller pieces helps them cook faster and makes the soup easier to eat.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of red chili flakes to taste.
- Shredding the chicken directly in the pot saves time and reduces cleanup.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level in the soup.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken, adding extra vegetables or beans instead.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American