Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup
Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is the perfect dish for cozy evenings and busy weeknights alike. This delightful soup combines tender chicken, pasta, and a luscious creamy broth that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, this soup brings comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup Journey
Growing up, my grandmother always had a pot of soup simmering on the stove. This recipe reminds me of those family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. I can still hear her stories while we dipped crusty bread into her delightful soups. This Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is a tribute to her legacy and a dish I love to prepare for my loved ones, bringing everyone together just like she did.
What Makes This Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its rich flavor profile and creamy texture, thanks to the combination of heavy cream and whole milk. Additionally, the use of fresh ingredients like garlic and Italian seasoning elevates the taste, making it a restaurant-quality dish you can easily whip up at home. Plus, it’s flexible; feel free to add your favorite veggies to enhance nutrition and flavor.
The Full Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 4 cups (32 ounces) chicken broth
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups (139.5 g) small shell pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup (100 g) Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup (56.5 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the diced chicken with salt, Italian seasoning, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until evenly coated. This step enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned. Transfer chicken to a bowl and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. This adds a delicious depth to the soup.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure not to burn it.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking until smooth. This creates a rich, creamy base.
- Add the uncooked pasta and partially cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. This adds a wonderful cheesy flavor.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color to the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup
This soup is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For variations, consider adding spinach, broccoli, or even carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of pasta or cheeses to find your perfect combination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup?
While you can freeze it, the pasta may become mushy upon reheating. It’s best to freeze the soup without pasta and add it freshly cooked just before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use more milk but the soup will be less creamy.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time. Just add it when you mix in the broth and cream.
Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup
Equipment
- Dutch oven Essential for even cooking of the soup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1.5 cups small shell pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- cups fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the diced chicken with salt, Italian seasoning, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until evenly coated. This step enhances the chicken's flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned. Transfer chicken to a bowl and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. This adds a delicious depth to the soup.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure not to burn it.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking until smooth. This creates a rich, creamy base.
- Add the uncooked pasta and partially cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. This adds a wonderful cheesy flavor.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color to the dish.