Sitting on the porch with a steaming bowl of white chicken lasagna soup, the memories of my childhood come rushing back. Growing up, this comforting dish was a staple in our household, and the aroma of it simmering on the stove was always a welcome sight. My mom would spend hours carefully crafting the perfect balance of flavors, and I can still remember the way the creamy broth and tender chicken would warm me from the inside out.
As an adult, I’ve tried countless variations of white chicken lasagna soup, but nothing quite compares to the recipe my mom perfected over the years. There’s just something about the way the noodles soak up the rich, velvety sauce, and the blend of spices that creates a symphony of flavors in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to a cozy, comforting place – like wrapping yourself in a warm hug on a chilly day.
Why This white chicken lasagna soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect white chicken lasagna soup
What sets this white chicken lasagna soup recipe apart is the careful attention to detail and the use of a few unexpected ingredients that take it to the next level. The key is to start with high-quality, fresh ingredients and to take the time to build the flavors layer by layer. By simmering the broth with a blend of herbs and spices, you create a depth of flavor that simply can’t be replicated with a store-bought mix.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- – Chicken breasts: The foundation of the soup, these juicy, tender pieces of protein are the star of the show.
- – Onion and garlic: These aromatic veggies provide the base for the flavorful broth.
- – Lasagna noodles: Breaking up the noodles into bite-sized pieces adds a unique texture and a nostalgic, comforting element.
- – Cream cheese: This rich and creamy ingredient gives the soup its signature velvety texture.
- – Chicken broth: The liquid base that brings all the flavors together.
- – Spices: A blend of oregano, basil, and a touch of nutmeg elevates the overall taste.
Step-by-Step white chicken lasagna soup Instructions
Preparing Your white chicken lasagna soup
This white chicken lasagna soup is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. With a total preparation and cooking time of around 90 minutes, you’ll want to set aside some time to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to reach its full potential. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a sharp knife to get started.
1- Begin by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté these aromatic ingredients in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant.
2- Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Meanwhile, break the lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and add them to the simmering broth.
4- Once the noodles are tender, about 10-15 minutes, stir in the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and a generous helping of dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
5- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
6- Ladle the steaming white chicken lasagna soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your white chicken lasagna soup is a hit every time, keep these pro tips in mind:
– Use high-quality, free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture.
– Don’t be afraid to let the soup simmer for a bit longer to really develop the flavors.
– Adjust the amount of cream cheese to your desired creaminess level.
– Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they can become mushy.
– Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
Serving and Storing Your white chicken lasagna soup
Perfect Pairings for white chicken lasagna soup
This white chicken lasagna soup is a true comfort food classic, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. A fresh, crisp salad or a crusty loaf of garlic bread make the perfect accompaniments, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup.
For a heartier meal, you can serve the soup alongside a simple grilled cheese sandwich or a warm, buttery biscuit. And don’t forget the beverages – a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea are both excellent choices to complement the flavors of the soup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Fortunately, white chicken lasagna soup is a dish that actually gets better with time. The flavors continue to meld and intensify as it sits, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or making ahead.
Once the soup has cooled, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot. The soup also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it for weeks to come.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for white chicken lasagna soup
Creative white chicken lasagna soup Variations
While the classic white chicken lasagna soup is a family favorite, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on the dish. For a seasonal twist, try swapping out the chicken for turkey and adding diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or fontina, to create a unique flavor profile.
Making white chicken lasagna soup Diet-Friendly
For those following a gluten-free diet, you can easily substitute the lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. To make a low-carb version, skip the noodles altogether and serve the creamy chicken and vegetable broth over a bed of steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken myself?
A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving shortcut. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup in the final steps.
Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: If you find the soup is a bit too thin for your liking, you can try a few different techniques. First, let the soup simmer for a bit longer to allow the noodles to absorb more of the broth. You can also make a simple roux by melting a bit of butter in a separate pan, then whisking in an equal amount of flour. Slowly incorporate this roux into the soup to help it thicken up.
Q: Can I make this soup in the slow cooker or Instant Pot?
A: Definitely! This white chicken lasagna soup adapts very well to slow cooker and pressure cooker methods. Simply add all the ingredients to your chosen appliance and let it do the work. Adjust the cooking times as needed, and you’ll have a delicious, hands-off meal.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe for white chicken lasagna soup typically yields 6-8 servings, depending on the portion size. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish, so a bowl or two makes for a complete meal.
White Chicken Lasagna Soup
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy, delicious white chicken lasagna soup. Loaded with tender chicken, melty cheese, and classic lasagna flavors, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. – In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil over high heat. Add chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
2. – Remove chicken from broth and shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
3. – Add broken lasagna noodles to the broth and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender.
4. – Stir in heavy cream, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. – Simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
6. – Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, you can mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it into the soup.
– Customize with your favorite lasagna fillings like spinach, ricotta, or Italian sausage.
– Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This white chicken lasagna soup is a true comfort food classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and nostalgic lasagna noodles, it’s a dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly winter evening or enjoying it as a cozy lunch, this recipe is guaranteed to warm your soul and leave you feeling satisfied.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a masterpiece in the kitchen. I promise, once you try this white chicken lasagna soup, it will become a permanent fixture in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
