Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach

Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach is a nutritious, hearty, and flavor-packed meal perfect for any night of the week. This recipe combines tender chicken, a variety of fresh vegetables, and pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy broth that comforts and satisfies. Prepared in under 30 minutes, this soup is ideal for busy families, weeknight dinners, or meal prep without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

We use shredded cooked chicken, a mix of aromatic vegetables, and a combination of cream, cream cheese, and cheddar to create a smooth and rich texture. The addition of spinach adds freshness and a boost of vitamins, while ditalini or other small pasta shapes provide heartiness that turns this soup into a complete meal.

Why This Creamy Chicken Soup Stands Out

Unlike standard chicken soups, this version has layers of flavor and texture. The sautéed vegetables bring sweetness and depth, while the creamy cheese base ensures a velvety consistency. Adding the pasta later in cooking allows it to absorb the broth’s flavor without becoming mushy. Spinach adds color and nutrition at the last step, maintaining its vibrant green appearance and delicate texture. This method ensures every spoonful is balanced and satisfying.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

We carefully select ingredients that enhance flavor, texture, and nutritional value:

Chicken: 1 lb (450g) shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken
Broth: 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth for a light, flavorful base
Olive oil: 2 teaspoons for sautéing vegetables
Vegetables: ½ cup diced celery, 1 cup diced carrots, ½ cup chopped onion, 2 cloves minced garlic
Cheese: 1½ cups shredded mild cheddar cheese, 1 cup softened cream cheese, optional ½ cup parmesan for garnish
Cream: ½ cup heavy cream for richness
Seasonings: ½ teaspoon kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pasta: 2 cups uncooked ditalini or other small pasta
Greens: 2 cups chopped spinach

This combination produces a soup that is creamy, cheesy, and nutrient-dense, while still being quick and easy to make.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
2. Add the chicken: Stir in shredded or chopped cooked chicken and sauté for an additional 3 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb some of the aromatics.
3. Combine the liquids and cheeses: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Stir well to combine, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and cook for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Add pasta and cheddar: Lower the heat, then add uncooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente.
5. Add spinach and season: Stir in chopped spinach toward the end of cooking and let it wilt. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this creamy, comforting chicken pasta soup hot.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Soup

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and enhanced flavor.
• Do not overcook pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. Add it last and simmer just until tender.
• Cheese choices matter: Mild cheddar melts smoothly, but you can use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
• Customize vegetables: Add peas, corn, or mushrooms for additional texture and nutrition.
• Make ahead: This soup can be made a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add fresh spinach at the end to preserve color and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup as a complete meal with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. For extra flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This dish is also freezer-friendly and reheats well, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Nutritional Information per Serving

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 27 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg

This soup is high in protein, full of vitamins from spinach and vegetables, and balanced for a wholesome dinner.

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