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 Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup, whether made on a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, is a truly filling healthy soup that stands proudly as a complete meal. To make it a truly memorable dinner, consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty artisan bread or soft dinner rolls – perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious, creamy broth. A light, fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette would offer a wonderful contrast to the soup’s richness. For that final flourish, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese not only adds beauty but enhances the flavor. This soup makes fantastic ‘Leftover Soup’ too; simply store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Remember, pasta can absorb liquid when stored, so a little extra broth or milk might be needed when reheating to restore its perfect consistency.
We hope this Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup becomes a cherished addition to your recipe collection, bringing comfort and warmth to your home, whether you’re seeking easy dinner recipes for family when sick, a cozy meal for cold night recipes, or just a delicious, filling healthy soup on a raining day. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create healthy exciting meals that truly nourish the body and soul. Don’t hesitate to make it your own – perhaps trying different curry recipes for a unique twist! Give it a go, share your culinary creations, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking! #HealthyExcitingMeals #CreamyAsianSoup #RainingDayDinnerIdeas #LeftoverSoup #DifferentCurryRecipes #DinnerIdeasWhenYoureSick #ColdNightRecipes #EasyDinnerRecipesForFamilyWhenSick #FillingHealthySoup
