Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup
Hola! And if you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls head over heels for the bold, soul-warming flavors of Mexico, well… you’re about to find out. I grew up under the bright Orlando sun, but some of my warmest memories were stirred up in steamy kitchens filled with bubbling pots and laughter. This creamy chicken lasagna soup takes me right back there—it’s comfort food with a twist, cozy like an abuela’s hug and rich like an Alfredo sunset. Creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and brimming with tender chicken, mushrooms, and spinach, this bowl is my go-to when I need something hearty but homey. Whether you’re feeding your family or batch cooking for the week, this soup is one of those recipes that’ll make your kitchen smell like love.
Quick Recipe Overview
Category | Details |
---|---|
Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Cook Time | 40 minutes |
Total Time | 50 minutes |
Servings | 6 |
Difficulty | Easy |
Cuisine Type | American Italian Fusion |
Best Season to Serve | Fall and Winter |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The blend of cream cheese, parmesan, and heavy cream creates a silky, comforting broth you’ll want to sip by the spoonful.
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with shredded chicken, lasagna noodles, mushrooms, and spinach, this soup is a full meal in a bowl.
- Easy to Make: Uses rotisserie chicken and pantry staples for a low-effort, high-reward meal.
- Customizable: Swap the mushrooms or spinach for your favorite veggies, or spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Family-Approved: This soup gets rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters in my house—kid-friendly and adult-loved.
Creamy Chicken Lasagna Soup With Mushrooms and Spinach
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
This creamy chicken lasagna soup features a rich parmesan-garlic broth, tender rotisserie chicken, mushrooms, spinach, and broken lasagna noodles—pure cozy comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 10 lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
- 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Microwave cream cheese until very soft (20-second intervals).
2. Heat oil and butter, sauté onions for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
4. Add mushrooms and Italian seasoning, cook 5–6 minutes.
5. Stir in flour, cook for 1 minute.
6. Add 2 cups broth, stir well, then add remaining broth and cream.
7. Add noodles, bring to boil, then simmer gently for 20 minutes, lid ajar.
8. Add chicken and cream cheese chunks, stir until melted (3–5 minutes).
9. Stir in parmesan and spinach. Let cheese melt and spinach wilt.
10. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust thickness with broth or cream if needed.
Notes
Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent noodles from sticking.
Soup thickens as it sits—add broth when reheating.
Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor.
Freeze soup without noodles/spinach; add fresh when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Italian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 668
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1317mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 151mg
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 10 lasagna noodles, broken into small pieces
- 2 cups cooked/rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (packed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Tips Table
Ingredient | Tip |
Cream Cheese | Soften in microwave in 20-second intervals for easier melting |
Olive Oil & Butter | Use both for a richer base flavor |
Garlic | Freshly minced garlic adds robust flavor; avoid jarred |
Mushrooms | Sauté until all moisture is released for best texture |
Flour | Helps thicken the soup; cook thoroughly to avoid raw taste |
Chicken Broth | Low-sodium recommended so you can control saltiness |
Lasagna Noodles | Break into uneven bite-sized pieces for a rustic look |
Parmesan | Freshly grated melts better and enhances flavor |
Spinach | Add at the end to preserve its color and nutrients |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Cream Cheese: Microwave cream cheese in 20-second intervals until soft.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until water has evaporated.
- Thicken the Base: Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to remove raw taste.
- Add Broth and Cream: Gradually stir in 2 cups of chicken broth, ensuring flour dissolves. Add remaining broth and heavy cream.
- Cook Noodles: Add broken lasagna noodles. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover with lid slightly ajar and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chicken and Cream Cheese: Add shredded chicken and softened cream cheese in small chunks. Stir until fully melted (about 3-5 minutes).
- Finish with Spinach and Cheese: Stir in parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Let spinach wilt and cheese melt.
- Season and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper. Adjust thickness by simmering longer or adding more broth/cream.
Helpful Tips
- Stir Often: Noodles can stick to the pot, so stir occasionally while simmering.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Cut Cream Cheese into Pieces: Helps it melt faster and more evenly.
- Taste Before Salting: Parmesan and broth already add saltiness.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Simmer Gently: A rolling boil can make cream curdle and noodles mushy. Keep the heat moderate.
- Layer Flavors: Sauté onions and garlic well before adding liquids to build flavor.
- Finish with Freshness: Add spinach and parmesan at the end to preserve their texture and taste.
- Leftovers Need Liquid: Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating as the soup thickens overnight.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Sausage Version: Replace chicken with cooked Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the chicken and use veggie broth, add zucchini or bell peppers for texture.
- Alfredo Vibes: Swap Italian seasoning for a touch of nutmeg and add more parmesan for a creamier Alfredo-style broth.
- Crockpot Friendly: Combine all ingredients except spinach, parmesan, and cream cheese in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, then stir in remaining ingredients to finish.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It thickens overnight, so add extra broth when reheating. For freezing, omit the noodles and spinach, freeze the base for up to 3 months, then reheat and add fresh noodles and spinach before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and fresh cracked black pepper. Pair it with warm garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A drizzle of olive oil and a few red pepper flakes add a rustic, restaurant-style finish.
Pairing Ideas
Pair with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or Caesar salad. For drinks, try a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a sparkling lemonade. A slice of tiramisu makes a dreamy dessert follow-up.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth or cream as needed. For microwave reheating, use 50 percent power and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, but thicker pasta like penne or bowties work best and hold up well in soup.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and swap flour for a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze before adding noodles and spinach for best texture. Add them fresh when reheating.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta, but the flavor and thickness may vary slightly.
Is this soup spicy?
No, it’s mild and kid-friendly. Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Note: flavor and texture will change.
How can I reduce the calories?
Use light cream, less cheese, and whole wheat pasta or skip the cream cheese for a lighter version.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
Serving Size | 1 bowl |
Calories | 668 kcal |
Protein | 30g |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Fat | 41g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 4g |
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
There you have it: creamy chicken lasagna soup that’s comforting, filling, and packed with cozy vibes. It’s a must-make for cool nights or when your soul just needs a warm hug in a bowl. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!