Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful, making it the perfect dish for cozy nights in or sharing with friends. Plus, the fresh spinach and hint of lemon give it a refreshing twist that makes me feel like I’m both indulging and staying healthy at the same time!

When the winter cold closes in, I take comfort in serving up a bowl of my Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup. With its aromatic base of garlic and onions and the ever-so-slightly herbed mix of thyme and rosemary, this soup is as warm and nourishing as anything I could dream up.

It’s full of bright, winter veggies like carrots and spinach, and it couldn’t be heartier with pasta and chicken. Before you get all personal with me about how I serve a “soup” with a fork, let me insist that you can and should eat this dish with a fork.

Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe Ingredients

• Olive oil: Rich in healthy fats, enhances flavor, promotes heart health.
• Garlic: Boosts immune system, adds a savory aroma.
• Carrots: Source of vitamins and fiber, adds natural sweetness.
• Celery: Low-calorie, adds crunch, contains antioxidants.
• Chicken broth: Base of soup, rich in minerals, provides savory depth.
• Chicken breasts: High in protein, lean meat, key for muscle repair.
• Pasta: Provides carbohydrates, adds body and texture.
• Spinach: Packed with iron and vitamins, enhances nutrient content.

Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

How to Make this Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe

1. In a big pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it is see-through, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Add the garlic, minced, the carrots, sliced, and the celery, sliced, to the pot. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Mix in the dried thyme and dried rosemary, letting the herbs release their wonderful aroma, about 1 minute.

4. Add the chicken broth and water, and throw in the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.

5. Submerge the chicken breasts in the liquid by adding them to the pot. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is done. If you have a 4-quart or larger pot, a 12-ounce can of beer (or another 12-ounce liquid) can be used.

6. Take the chicken breasts out of the pot and place them aside to cool a bit. Using two forks, pull the chicken apart to make shreds.

7. Put the pasta into the pot and turn up the heat to medium. Stir well.

8. Simmer the soup for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir as necessary to keep everything together and not sticking.

9. Add salt and pepper to the soup until it tastes good. Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt in the soup until it’s just wilted (1-2 minutes).

10. Before serving, remove the bay leaf. If using, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for added flavor. Enjoy!

Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot (4-quart or larger)
2. Wooden spoon (for stirring)
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Two forks (for shredding chicken)
8. Ladle (for serving)

FAQ

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?It is true that chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They impart more flavor and tenderness to the soup.
• Can I make this soup in advance?Definitely. The tastes usually mature when prepared beforehand. Warm it on the stovetop with a gentle hand and thin it out with extra broth or water if it has thickened up too much.
• What can I substitute for fresh spinach?Alternatives to Swiss chard include kale or Swiss chard. If using them, chop them finely and allow a few extra minutes for cooking.
• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?Just use gluten-free pasta, like rice pasta or quinoa pasta.
• Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?Indeed, vegetable broth is a fitting stand-in and will still yield a soup that is high in flavor.
• Is there a way to add more flavor?A splash of white wine or more herbs, like oregano or basil, can really kick up the flavor in this dish.
• How should I store leftovers?Store uneaten portions in a container that seals tightly. Keep it in your fridge. It will be good for three days. If you want to keep it longer than that, put it in a container and throw it in the freezer. It will reheat beautifully.

Wintery Chicken Pasta Soup Recipe Substitutions and Variations

2 tablespoons olive oil can be substituted with 2 tablespoons avocado oil.
2 shallots, diced, can replace 1 medium onion, diced.
1 teaspoon dried thyme can be replaced with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
One pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast.
1 cup pasta (such as ditalini or small shells) can be swapped out for 1 cup of couscous or quinoa.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance Flavor with Browning: Before adding the broth and water, allow the onions and other vegetables to caramelize slightly by cooking them for an extra minute or two, stirring occasionally. This will deepen the flavor of the soup.