Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! This Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup is exactly what you need. It combines all the delicious elements of a classic lasagna – creamy cheese, savory chicken, rich tomato sauce, and tender noodles – into a warm, satisfying soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
What is Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup?
Ever wondered how lasagna, that glorious monument of layered pasta, cheese, and sauce, could possibly transform into a soup? It sounds a little crazy, right? Like someone accidentally dropped a whole lasagna into a pot of broth and decided to run with it! But hey, we’re not ones to shy away from culinary adventures. In this recipe, we’ve deconstructed the classic lasagna and reimagined it as a comforting, flavorful soup.
Did someone forget to buy lasagna sheets, or did they choose a soup bowl over a baking dish? Whether it’s a case of creative genius or a happy accident, one thing’s for sure: this soup is a winner! They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this soup is sure to win over the whole family. So, grab your spoons and get ready to slurp up some lasagna goodness. Trust me, you’ll be hooked! Give this Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup a try – you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. First, the creamy texture adds a touch of indulgence that turns an ordinary soup into something special. Making it at home means you can skip the overpriced restaurant version and control every ingredient, saving money and ensuring quality.
Plus, the customizable toppings like fresh basil, a dollop of ricotta, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese elevate each bowl. If you enjoy a hearty soup like Tuscan Sausage Soup, you’ll love this creamy, cheesy twist! Why not gather your ingredients and give this comforting soup a try?
Key Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup:
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- Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, cooked and shredded
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Dried Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Chicken Broth: 8 cups
- Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Lasagna Noodles: 8 ounces, broken into small pieces
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Ricotta Cheese: 1/2 cup, optional for topping
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated, plus more for topping
- Fresh Basil: Chopped, for garnish
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
How to Make Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup:
This soup is surprisingly easy to whip up, delivering a flavorful and soul-satisfying meal in about 45 minutes. The rich creamy sauce, tender chicken, and chewy lasagna noodles combine for a truly winning combination.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken breast using your preferred method (boiling, baking, or grilling). Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Combine the Base: Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Noodles: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot. Stir to make sure the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Chicken and Cream: Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Heat through for a few minutes, but do not boil.
- Add Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the soup and stir until its melted
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of ricotta cheese (optional), extra Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What to Serve Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup With:
To complement the richness of this Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup, consider serving it with a light side salad dressed with a vinaigrette to balance the flavors. Crusty bread, garlic bread, or seasoned croutons are also fantastic for dipping into the creamy broth. A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully as well.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup:
- Chicken Prep: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
- Noodle Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of lasagna noodles or other small pasta shapes like penne or farfalle.
- Vegetable Variety: Add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to each bowl.
- Creamy Texture: For an even creamier soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender before adding the heavy cream.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends. Mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses would work well.
- Broth Flavor: Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Be aware that the noodles may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing.
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of lasagna goodness!
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
A: Yes, ground beef or Italian sausage can be used in place of chicken. Brown the ground beef or sausage before adding the vegetables.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients except the noodles, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the noodles and cook for another 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
A: You can substitute other small pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or rotini.
Q: Can I add spinach to this soup?
A: Yes, add a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until the spinach is wilted.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: No, this soup is not gluten-free because it contains lasagna noodles. However, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make it gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen overnight! Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
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