If you’re searching for a creamy, comforting dish that’s brimming with flavor, this Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Soup might just be your new favorite! Bursting with juicy chicken, tender pasta, a bounty of fresh veggies, and a velvety Parmesan-laced broth, every bite feels like a cozy hug. The real magic comes from the careful layering of flavors—even in its simplicity, every one of the Ingredients works together to make this bowl deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family on a cool night or just craving a homemade meal with leftovers to savor, you’ll love how easy and rewarding this soup is to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what makes this soup sing! The Ingredients list is wonderfully straightforward, yet each star brings something special—chicken for heartiness, spinach for color, Parmesan for richness, and a trio of onions, carrots, and celery for the deepest flavor. Here’s your roadmap to deliciousness:

Step 1:

Begin by heating olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken pieces along with one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear until the chicken is golden and just cooked through—about four to five minutes. This step is essential; it builds foundational flavor and locks in juiciness, making the soup hearty right from the start.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In that same glorious pot (no need for extra dishes!), toss in your diced onions, carrots, celery, sundried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté for three to four minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and the kitchen smells divine. This medley of Ingredients is what gives the soup its classic base and irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Build Body with Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle flour across your vegetable mix, scattering it evenly, and stir well to combine. Add the flour in stages to avoid any clumping or dry pockets. If you want a hint of tomato flavor, add your tomato paste now. Stir until everything is well blended and the flour has absorbed the oil and juices—this will give your soup that enveloping creamy texture later on.

Step 4: Add Broth and Deglaze

Gradually whisk in chicken broth, starting with about six cups and adding more later if you want a thinner soup. Scrape up the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot—that’s pure gold for taste! Stir constantly as you pour, ensuring that the flour dissolves smoothly into the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer and Add Pasta

Bring the mixture to a lively boil, then stir in your pasta, remaining Italian seasoning, and another dash of salt and pepper. Cover, lower the heat, and let it all simmer for about twenty minutes. This is the moment where the chicken turns succulent, veggies soften, and pasta becomes tender but firm—don’t overcook, as nobody likes mushy shells!

Step 6: Finish with Cream, Cheese, and Spinach

Uncover the pot and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in fresh spinach and a generous handful of grated parmesan reggiano cheese. Simmer for five more minutes until the spinach wilts completely and the soup is thick and luxurious. Taste and adjust your seasonings if needed, then get ready to serve your masterpiece!

Take this soup from soul-warming to restaurant-worthy with a handful of clever garnishes. A shower of extra grated Parmesan melts into each bowl; a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as basil or parsley adds color and vibrancy. For a touch of heat, red pepper flakes work wonders. And don’t forget a drizzle of good olive oil or even a few extra pieces of sundried tomato for presentation—each garnish lets those Ingredients shine just a bit brighter.

Side Dishes

This creamy soup is a star on its own, but it loves good company. Pair it with a crusty baguette or some warm garlic bread to mop up all that silky broth. A fresh green salad with a zingy vinaigrette works beautifully to balance the richness. Or, keep it Italian with a simple Caprese salad—any sides will celebrate the core Ingredients and complement their flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn family dinner into something memorable by presenting this soup in hollowed round bread bowls for a dramatic effect (plus, you get to eat the bowl!). If you’re hosting friends, serve smaller portions in espresso cups or shot glasses for a chic appetizer. For meal prep, ladle into mason jars and pack along with a grated cheese packet on the side—this keeps the Ingredients fresh and lunch break-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so your Ingredients only get better with time! If your pasta soaks up too much broth, simply add a splash of chicken stock when reheating to loosen things up.

Freezing

If you’re thinking ahead, freeze the soup before adding the pasta, cream, and spinach for the very best texture. Pour into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat gently, and then stir in cooked pasta, cream, cheese, and spinach for a just-made freshness. This tip preserves the delicious qualities of your Ingredients while keeping everything vibrant.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking or curdling. If it’s too thick, add more broth until it’s just right. The flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge! For microwave reheating, use short bursts and stir in between to warm all the Ingredients evenly.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw?

Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a huge time saver! Just skip the initial searing step and add shredded or diced cooked chicken during the last five minutes—this way, it warms through without getting tough. Rotisserie chicken brings its own roasted, seasoned flavor to your soup Ingredients.

What pasta shapes work best in this soup?

Small shells are a favorite because they scoop up bits of chicken and veggies, but ditalini, elbows, or small penne work just as well. Whichever you choose, cook until just al dente to avoid mushiness, especially if you plan to store leftovers with the rest of the Ingredients.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Of course! Swap the flour for a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free pasta, and double-check your broth label. The Ingredients still come together for a silky, hearty, gluten-free meal.

How do I keep the spinach bright and not soggy?

Add spinach near the end of cooking and simmer just until wilted—about five minutes. Using baby spinach also helps, as the tender leaves hold up better in the creamy soup and keep all the Ingredients looking vibrant and green.

Is there a way to lighten up the soup?

You can absolutely swap in half and half or even whole milk instead of heavy cream, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember, the Ingredients will yield a slightly thinner broth, but the soup still tastes fantastic and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Soup is the dinner you make when you want real comfort and a table full of smiles. The Ingredients are easy to find but pull together into a meal that feels special and nourishing. Give it a try—you’ll love how deliciously cozy, versatile, and family-friendly it is!

Chicken Pasta Soup