Name: Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup Cozy Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup Cozy Meal 🍲✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a comforting and hearty dish that combines the richness of creamy flavors with tender pasta and succulent chicken, then this Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a filling yet flavorful meal, this soup offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Not only is it nourishing, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of chicken pasta soup, creamy chicken soup, or pasta soup recipes in general, you’ll love how this dish hits all the right notes.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 large carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
1 cup pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Preparing the Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Sautéing Vegetables

Add chopped carrots and sliced celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop flavor.

Adding Liquids and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the shredded chicken and season with thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Cooking Pasta

Meanwhile, cook your choice of pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. You can also add the pasta directly into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking, if preferred.

Making the Soup Creamy

Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to create that luscious, creamy texture. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the flavors blend beautifully.

Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add cooked pasta to the soup or serve it separately to prevent it from becoming too soft. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an extra flavorful touch.

4. Tips to Perfect Your Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

For a healthier twist, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Use leftover cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
The soup can be customized with vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrients.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover creamy chicken pasta soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much during storage, stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

6. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This pasta soup recipe pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad. For an enhanced dining experience, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top. You can also serve it with homemade pizza sticks for a fun, casual meal.

7. Variations of Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different pasta shapes based on preference or what’s available in your pantry.

Make it spicy by incorporating hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
For dairy-free versions, replace heavy cream with cashew cream or almond milk.

8. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Can I make this soup healthier?

Absolutely! Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter version. Using whole wheat pasta or spiralized vegetables will also boost the nutritional profile.

How long does it take to prepare?

Overall, this creamy chicken pasta soup takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish — perfect for a quick yet hearty meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but note that the creamy texture may change slightly upon thawing. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently to preserve the flavor and consistency.

What are suitable substitutions for chicken?

You can use cooked turkey, tofu, or even beans as protein substitutes in this comforting soup.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying a bowl of Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm, savory blanket on a chilly day. Its rich, creamy broth combined with tender pasta and succulent chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or meal prep. Perfectly customizable and easy to make, this pasta soup recipe promises comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Don’t forget to explore the best kitchen gadgets to elevate your cooking experience. Happy cooking!

Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Great for quickly cooking and re-heating leftovers or preparing side dishes.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heat distribution for perfect sautéing and simmering.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Ideal for grilling chicken breasts for the soup or making crispy toppings.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: Perfect for preparing coffee to enjoy alongside the meal.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer: Useful for preparing homemade pasta or mixing ingredients efficiently.

Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup Cozy Meal