Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

The creamy, comforting texture of this chicken pasta soup is the kind of dish that wraps you up in warmth from the inside out. As the broth simmers, the flavors meld together in such a beautiful harmony—tender chicken, delicate herbs, and the rich creaminess that gives each spoonful a luxurious mouthfeel. The pasta soaks up just the right amount of liquid, making it hearty without being too heavy. There’s something about the way the soup thickens as it cools slightly, giving you that perfect balance of richness and lightness in each bite.

I love how adaptable this soup is too. It’s the kind of recipe where you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand—spinach, carrots, or even a handful of peas—and they just melt into the soup, adding bursts of color and freshness. It’s one of those dishes that’s as forgiving as it is delicious. If you’re feeling like a little extra indulgence, a sprinkle of Parmesan on top can take it over the top. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights or when you need a bit of comfort after a long day.

Key Ingredients in Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Each ingredient in this soup plays an essential role, contributing to the depth of flavor and the comforting creaminess that makes this dish so irresistible. From the tender chicken breasts to the finishing touch of Parmesan, every bite is packed with deliciousness. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  The star of the dish, chicken breasts provide lean protein and absorb the savory broth, becoming tender as it simmers.
• Olive oil
  This healthy fat is perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness that complements the other flavors.
• Small onion, diced
  Onions bring a touch of sweetness and depth to the base of the soup. As they soften, they create the foundation of flavor that ties everything together.
• Garlic, minced
  Garlic adds a fragrant, savory punch that infuses the soup with aromatic warmth, making it smell as good as it tastes.
• Chicken broth
  The liquid backbone of the soup, chicken broth gives the dish a rich, savory flavor that sets the stage for the creamy elements to come.
• Heavy cream
  This is the magic ingredient for creating that luscious, velvety texture. It thickens the broth and makes each spoonful feel indulgent.
• Whole milk
  Whole milk balances out the richness of the cream, ensuring the soup is creamy without being overly heavy.
• Dried thyme
  Thyme adds a subtle earthy, herby note that enhances the chicken and broth, bringing a hint of warmth to every bite.
• Dried basil
  Basil infuses the soup with a slightly sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the thyme, creating a lovely herb blend.
• Salt
  Salt is the key to bringing out the natural flavors in the chicken and broth, highlighting the depth of the other ingredients.
• Black pepper
  A little black pepper adds a touch of heat and brightness, giving the soup that perfect balance of flavors.
• Pasta (such as rotini or penne)
  The pasta soaks up the soup’s creamy broth, making each spoonful hearty and satisfying. The shape of the pasta helps hold onto the liquid, adding to the soup’s texture.
• Frozen peas
  These little bursts of sweetness not only add color to the soup, but they also provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy broth.
• Grated Parmesan cheese
  Parmesan is the finishing touch, adding a salty, umami flavor that takes the soup from good to great. It melts into the soup, creating a rich and savory layer.
• Chopped fresh parsley
  Fresh parsley adds a bright, herby note that lightens the soup and adds a pop of color right before serving.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Crusty Bread for Dipping
There’s something about a warm bowl of soup and a slice of crusty bread—perfect for sopping up all that creamy goodness. A loaf of sourdough or baguette adds a wonderful texture contrast, and it’s always a hit for dipping into that rich broth.

A Side Salad for Freshness
Balance out the creamy richness with a simple side salad. A mix of fresh greens, maybe a few cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will provide a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the soup’s comforting flavors.

Extra Parmesan and Red Pepper Flakes
For those who love a bit of extra flavor, sprinkle a little more Parmesan on top for that salty umami kick. A pinch of red pepper flakes also adds just the right amount of heat to contrast the creaminess, making each spoonful even more exciting!

How to Store Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), storing this creamy chicken pasta soup is a breeze, and you’ll be able to enjoy its comforting flavors again in no time. First things first, let the soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent any condensation from forming in the container, which can water down the soup when reheated.

For short-term storage, simply transfer the soup into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta might absorb some of the broth during this time, so when you reheat, you can always add a splash of extra milk or broth to bring back that creamy consistency.

If you’re planning to keep it for a bit longer, you can freeze the soup. Just be sure to leave out the pasta before freezing—since pasta can become a bit mushy after being frozen and thawed. After portioning out the soup into freezer-safe containers, pop it in the freezer where it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat it up on the stove, adding fresh pasta as you go. It’s like having a comforting bowl of soup ready whenever you need it!

Conclusion

And there you have it—a bowl of creamy chicken pasta soup that’s not just a meal, but a comforting experience. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or just need a little pick-me-up, this soup is sure to become a favorite. From the tender chicken to the rich, velvety broth and the perfectly cooked pasta, every spoonful feels like a warm hug. The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is—throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, add a sprinkle of Parmesan, or maybe a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. It’s all about making it your own!

I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you. Any twists or additions you’ve made? Or maybe you’ve got a favorite side dish that pairs perfectly with this soup? Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments—I’m always up for a good kitchen chat! If you run into any questions while making it, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy every last bite of your delicious bowl of comfort!

Print Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr

Calories: 550

Description

A comforting bowl of creamy chicken pasta soup, where tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety broth come together in perfect harmony. With hints of garlic, herbs, and a touch of cheese, it’s the ultimate cozy meal for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)

• 1 cup frozen peas

• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the olive oil to the pot and allow it to warm up.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion to the pot.
4. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
5. Add the minced garlic to the pot with the onion and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
6. Season the onions and garlic with the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
7. Stir the seasonings into the onions and garlic for about 30 seconds to release their aromas.
8. Place the chicken breasts into the pot with the onion and garlic mixture.
9. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side, allowing them to brown slightly.
10. Once the chicken is browned on both sides, pour in the chicken broth.
11. Bring the broth to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and registers 165°F on a meat thermometer.
12. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
13. Shred the chicken using two forks into bite-sized pieces.
14. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the broth.
15. Add the heavy cream and whole milk to the pot, stirring to combine.
16. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to warm through.
17. While the soup simmers, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil.
18. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
19. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
20. Add the frozen peas to the soup and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they are heated through.
21. Stir in the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing everything together until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
22. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
23. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Note

• For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
• Feel free to swap in different pasta shapes, but shorter ones like rotini or penne work best for this soup.
• For extra creaminess, you can add more Parmesan cheese or a splash of cream to taste.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or simmer longer after adding the cream and milk.
• Chopped spinach or kale can be added with the peas for added greens and texture.

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta soup recipe, easy creamy chicken soup, chicken pasta soup with cream, homemade chicken pasta soup, best creamy chicken pasta soup