There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it features the rich, creamy flavors of lasagna—with a twist! One chilly evening, as I stood in the kitchen contemplating dinner, I found myself craving the heartiness of lasagna but didn’t want to fuss with layers and baking. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of White Chicken Lasagna Soup. This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and melted Parmesan cheese in a creamy broth that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Perfect for those busy weeknights, this one-pot wonder is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavors that will delight your family and friends alike. Best of all, you can have a soul-warming meal ready in just 45 minutes! So grab your favorite soup pot and let’s dive into this simple recipe that transforms the beloved classic into a standout dish you’ll be dreaming about!
Why You'll Love This White Chicken Lasagna Soup
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal in a hurry.
- The rich and creamy flavors of the soup offer a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with taste.
- With its versatility, you can customize the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences, swapping in your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Visually appealing with its colorful veggies and creamy texture, this soup will impress your guests and family alike, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
White Chicken Lasagna Soup Ingredients
Discover the essential ingredients for a flavorful meal!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – a must for a tender and juicy base; you can substitute with turkey if preferred.
- Olive oil – adds richness and helps in searing the chicken perfectly.
For the Soup Base
- Salted butter – contributes to the creamy richness and enhances the flavors of the veggies.
- Yellow onion – adds a fragrant, savory foundation to the soup.
- Carrot – brings natural sweetness and color.
- Celery stalks – adds crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic cloves – for that aromatic punch; don’t skip this!
- Fresh broccoli – brightens the dish with color and nutrition.
Seasonings
- Kinder’s The Blend seasoning – gives a balanced flavor kick; or use a mix of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Garlic powder – deepens the garlic flavor.
- Onion powder – complements the fresh onion and adds depth.
- Black pepper – for a little heat; adjust to your taste.
- Herbes de Provence – infuses the soup with a lovely herbal aroma; it’s a delightful addition.
For the Thickening
- All-purpose flour – thickens the soup and gives it that creamy texture; you can use cornstarch as a gluten-free alternative.
For the Liquid Gold
- Chicken broth – the flavorful base of your soup; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
- Heavy cream – makes the soup luxuriously creamy, ensuring every sip is unforgettable.
For the Pasta
- Lasagna sheets – broken into pieces to give that classic lasagna feel; can substitute with other pasta if necessary.
For the Finish
- Parmesan cheese – freshly grated for the best flavor and a cheesy finish; sprinkle more on top before serving for extra indulgence!
With these ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from creating the heartwarming White Chicken Lasagna Soup that everyone will love!
How to Make White Chicken Lasagna Soup
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Season the chicken breasts on both sides with your chosen seasoning. In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 4 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
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Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
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Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to coat evenly. Cook the roux for 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour flavor.
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Whisk in the chicken broth gradually, about 375 milliliters at a time. Once incorporated, pour in the heavy cream. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and herbes de Provence.
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Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add chopped broccoli and broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring often to prevent the pasta from sticking, until the noodles are al dente.
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Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the soup is smooth. Chop the reserved chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot. Mix thoroughly and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
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Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze White Chicken Lasagna Soup
Fridge: Keep any leftover White Chicken Lasagna Soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth for the best creamy consistency.
Avoiding Separation: When reheating, stir frequently to prevent the creamy base from separating, ensuring every bowl is as delightful as when it was freshly made.
Make Ahead Options
These White Chicken Lasagna Soup is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the soup base (everything up to adding the pasta) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1 through 5, let the soup cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To preserve the bright flavor of the broccoli, add it just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, gently reheat the soup on the stove, add your broken lasagna noodles, and simmer until the noodles are al dente. With this make-ahead method, you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free dinner in no time!
What to Serve with White Chicken Lasagna Soup?
Creating the perfect meal doesn’t stop at the soup; consider these delightful pairings to enhance your dining experience!
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery slices are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, adding a comforting crunch.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a zesty dressing balance the richness of the soup while adding a refreshing contrast.
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Steamed Asparagus: The bright, fresh flavor of asparagus complements the heartiness of the soup, providing a nutritious and colorful side.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy, and slightly garlicky, these breadsticks will soak up every bit of the delicious broth, making them irresistible!
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea brings a refreshing citrus touch, beautifully cutting through the creaminess of the soup.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, serve warm cookies; their sweetness is a cozy finish after a hearty bowl of White Chicken Lasagna Soup.
White Chicken Lasagna Soup Variations
Feel free to explore different twists and turns with this comforting soup to make it uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a tummy-friendly option.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty, meatless alternative. It still delivers on richness!
- Creamy Spinach: Swap out broccoli for fresh spinach leaves, adding them just a few minutes before serving for a vibrant green boost. It brightens up the dish and enhances nutrition!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup a delightful heat that will warm you from the inside out. This little addition makes it a flavor-packed delight!
- Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheese types like mozzarella, gouda, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a unique flavor profile. Each variety adds its own delicious character!
- Pesto Infusion: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of basil pesto right before serving to give your soup a burst of fresh, aromatic flavors that transport you to an Italian piazza.
- Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the pot before serving for a zesty aroma and refreshing brightness that complements the creaminess beautifully. It’s like sunshine in a bowl!
- Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for even more heartiness, making this soup a protein-packed meal that satisfies! Just ensure it’s warmed through before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your chicken is perfectly moist in the White Chicken Lasagna Soup, don’t skip the searing step; this locks in the juices and flavor.
- When cooking the vegetable base, remember to stir frequently to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- For the roux, mixing the flour with the vegetables helps avoid clumps, so be sure to coat them evenly before adding the broth.
- Maintain a careful simmer when cooking the noodles to achieve that perfect al dente texture without mushiness.
White Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are plump and have a pale pink color without any dark spots or discoloration. Fresh chicken should feel firm to the touch and not have an unpleasant odor. If you can’t find boneless, skinless chicken breasts, skinless thighs can be a juicy alternative.
How should I store leftover White Chicken Lasagna Soup?
Very simply! Keep any leftover White Chicken Lasagna Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can affect the texture.
Can I freeze White Chicken Lasagna Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No problem! If you find your White Chicken Lasagna Soup has thickened too much during storage, just add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating. Stir continuously over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency, ensuring all the flavors come back to life.
Is this soup suitable for anyone with dairy allergies or who is lactose intolerant?
I recommend considering alternatives for those with dairy sensitivities. You can replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen White Chicken Lasagna Soup?
To reheat, move the soup from the freezer to the fridge the night before to thaw. Once it’s thawed, pour it into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in a splash of cream or broth as needed, stirring frequently to prevent separation, and heat until warmed through, about 10 to 15 minutes. Enjoy your comforting soup again!
White Chicken Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with your chosen seasoning. In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 4 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
- Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to coat evenly. Cook the roux for 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour flavor.
- Whisk in the chicken broth gradually, about 375 milliliters at a time. Once incorporated, pour in the heavy cream. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and herbes de Provence.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add chopped broccoli and broken lasagna noodles. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring often to prevent the pasta from sticking, until the noodles are al dente.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the soup is smooth. Chop the reserved chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot. Mix thoroughly and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
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