This White Chicken Lasagna Soup is a warm, comforting bowl filled with tender chicken, yummy noodles, and lots of cheesy goodness. It’s all the flavors of lasagna but in a cozy soup form!
When I make this, my kitchen smells heavenly! I love to top it with extra cheese and some fresh herbs for that little extra touch. Perfect for chilly days, don’t you think?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor for sautéing. If you’re out, canola oil or avocado oil works too. They have similar cooking properties.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is a great base. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken. If you’re vegetarian, consider using mushrooms or tofu instead!
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan blend perfectly for creaminess. If you want fewer calories, reduce the amount or substitute with lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-friendly option.
Lasagna Noodles: Breaking lasagna noodles gives that traditional feel. If you don’t have them, you could use any short pasta, like fusilli or penne. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and creamy. For a lighter version, use more milk instead, or consider coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Maximum Flavor from My Ingredients?
Building flavor is key in this soup. Start by sautéing the onion until it’s soft and slightly golden—it adds depth. Then, cook the mushrooms until they’re browned; this caramelization brings out their umami!
- Heat olive oil on medium, add onions, and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking for about 5-6 minutes until golden.
- Don’t rush the flour step; it should cook for 1-2 minutes for a smooth texture.
- Whisk in chicken broth slowly to prevent lumps; simmer gently to meld the flavors.
Remember to taste at every stage, adjusting seasoning as you go. A little salt can elevate the dish, while fresh herbs at the end will brighten it up!
White Chicken Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup heavy cream
- For the Flavor:
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Noodles & Greens:
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- For the Cheesy Goodness:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional dollops to swirl in soup)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to a warm, cheesy bowl of comfort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This will help build a delicious flavor base.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot; cook until the mushrooms are tender and browned, approximately 5-6 minutes. The addition of garlic enhances the aroma and flavor!
3. Create the Roux:
Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly. This step thickens your soup and helps achieve that creamy texture.
4. Add Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to warm through.
5. Season the Soup:
Add in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to blend all those wonderful flavors.
6. Cook the Noodles:
Next, toss in the broken lasagna noodles and cook until they are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
7. Fold in the Goodness:
Stir in the shredded chicken and fresh spinach leaves, cooking until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through. This is where your soup starts to come alive!
8. Melt the Cheeses:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until they melt and create a creamy soup—your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your delicious creation and adjust the seasoning as necessary. A little more salt or pepper might be all you need!
10. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the hot soup in bowls and, if desired, add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, a sprinkle of pepper, and optional sun-dried tomatoes for an extra touch of flavor.
11. Enjoy!
Pair your White Chicken Lasagna Soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for a comforting meal. Cozy up and enjoy every cheesy, rich sip!
This luscious, creamy soup combines the essence of white chicken lasagna in a satisfying bowl full of cheesy, herby, tender chicken and noodles—perfect for warming up on any day!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken for added convenience or any leftover cooked chicken. If you’d like a veggie alternative, consider using mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Can I Substitute the Cream Ingredients?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace the heavy cream with additional whole milk. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
For a complete meal, enjoy your White Chicken Lasagna Soup with crusty bread or garlic bread. A simple side salad can also complement the meal beautifully!