Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced carrots, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Add the small pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
- Finally, stir in the milk or half-and-half until heated through. Do not boil after adding milk to prevent curdling.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot.
Full Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup whole milk or half-and-half (for extra creaminess)
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Shopping List
- Produce: 1 large yellow onion, 2 cloves garlic, 2 medium carrots, 5 ounces fresh spinach
- Meat & Poultry: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Dairy & Eggs: 1/2 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 6 cups chicken broth, 1 cup small pasta, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt
Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch oven or stockpot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Variations & Serving Ideas
This hearty Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is a truly satisfying meal all on its own, a filling healthy soup that comforts from the inside out. For a truly complete and comforting dinner experience, serve generous bowls alongside warm, crusty artisan bread or soft dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich, savory broth. A crisp, vibrant green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette would offer a refreshing contrast to the soup’s creamy texture. To enhance presentation and flavor, consider a final garnish of freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or even a dollop of pesto swirled into each bowl. Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, remember that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so you might want to add a splash of extra chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
I genuinely hope this Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup brings immense comfort and joy to your family, becoming a go-to recipe whether you’re seeking healthy exciting meals, a warm embrace on a cold night, or a soothing dinner when someone’s feeling under the weather. It’s truly a labor of love, crafted to make your mealtime both delicious and effortless. Please give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below – I’d love to hear how you made it your own! Happy cooking from my kitchen to yours! #HealthyExcitingMeals #CreamyAsianSoup #RainingDayDinnerIdeas #LeftoverSoup #DifferentCurryRecipes #DinnerIdeasWhenYoureSick #ColdNightRecipes #EasyDinnerRecipesForFamilyWhenSick #FillingHealthySoup