This Chicken Lasagna Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! It has tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and delicious pasta all in a warm broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
You can pair it with some crusty bread for a fun twist! It’s a great way to enjoy classic lasagna flavors without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil provides a lovely flavor for sautéing. If you’re in a pinch, vegetable oil or butter can work just fine too.
Chicken Broth: I like using low-sodium chicken broth. You can swap it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, or even homemade broth if you have it!
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience here. You can also use leftover chicken or even turkey for a similar taste.
Lasagna Noodles: If you can’t find lasagna noodles, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like penne or even spaghetti, just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half works great. If you want to avoid dairy, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor Balance in My Soup?
Building flavor in your soup is key! Start by sautéing the onions and garlic; they create a fantastic base. Don’t rush this step, as it enhances the taste significantly.
- Make sure you let the onions soften fully before adding garlic and spices.
- Using fresh spices gives a wonderful aroma, but dried Italian seasoning works well too.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to ensure the perfect balance. Tasting as you go is essential!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Lasagna Noodles in Soup?
Cooking lasagna noodles directly in soup is efficient! Break them into smaller pieces so they cook quickly and blend well with other ingredients. Keep the heat to a gentle simmer to prevent overcooking.
- Check the pasta after about 8 minutes; you want them tender but not mushy. If you prefer a firmer bite, reduce the cooking time.
- Add the noodles about halfway through your cooking process for better texture.
Enjoy making your Chicken Lasagna Soup with these handy tips!
Chicken Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
For the Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
For the Creamy Finish:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Lasagna Soup can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and 20 minutes cooking, letting you enjoy a lovely and hearty meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. You want them nice and translucent!
2. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook it all together for about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful aroma.
3. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a boil to get those flavors combined.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the broken lasagna noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the noodles are tender, which should take around 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them!
5. Add Chicken and Spinach:
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the shredded chicken and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach has wilted—you want it vibrant and flavorful!
6. Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and flavors blend beautifully. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with an extra sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. If you’re feeling fancy, pair it with some crunchy crackers or crusty bread for an awesome meal!
Enjoy a warm, creamy, and comforting bowl of chicken lasagna soup that’s packed with tender shredded chicken, cheesy broth, lasagna pasta, and fresh spinach. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Regular Pasta Instead of Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! If you don’t have lasagna noodles on hand, feel free to substitute with any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, keeping an eye on the pasta to prevent overcooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover Chicken Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep most of the ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook. However, it’s best to add the cream and cheese just before serving to maintain that creamy texture.
Is This Soup Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove when ready to enjoy!
