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 incredibly satisfying Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is a complete meal in itself, a truly filling and healthy soup that will leave everyone feeling nourished. To make it a truly memorable dinner, consider serving it with a warm, crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls – perfect for soaking up every last bit of the rich, creamy broth. A light, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette would offer a wonderful contrast to the soup’s comforting richness. Before serving, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a swirl of extra cream, or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely finishing touch. This soup also makes fantastic leftovers! Store any extra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s common for the pasta to absorb some liquid, so have a little extra broth or milk on hand to thin it back to your desired consistency.
We truly hope this Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup becomes a go-to in your recipe collection, bringing warmth, comfort, and deliciousness to your family table. Whether you’re seeking a ‘Dinner Idea When You’re Sick’ or just a fantastic ‘Raining Day Dinner Idea’, this recipe delivers ‘Healthy Exciting Meals’ with ease. Give it a try and share your experience in the comments below – we love hearing your feedback and any creative twists you add! Happy cooking from the Easy Home Recipes kitchen! #HealthyExcitingMeals #CreamyAsianSoup #RainingDayDinnerIdeas #LeftoverSoup #DifferentCurryRecipes #DinnerIdeasWhenYoureSick #ColdNightRecipes #EasyDinnerRecipesForFamilyWhenSick #FillingHealthySoup
