White Chicken Lasagna Soup

Forget everything you thought you knew about comfort food; prepare for a culinary revelation. This White Chicken Lasagna Soup transforms a classic layered dish into an astonishingly creamy, robust, and effortlessly enjoyable bowl. Imagine tender chicken, al dente lasagna noodles, and a rich, cheesy béchamel all melded into a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a modern palate.

This is a pragmatic, technical triumph, delivering profound satisfaction without the traditional oven-baked fuss. We’re about to deconstruct a beloved Italian staple and rebuild it into something truly innovative.

Why You’ll Love This White Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe

• Unparalleled Creaminess: Experience a velvety smooth texture, reminiscent of the best béchamel, without the complex layering.
• Efficient Comfort: Achieve classic lasagna flavors in a fraction of the time, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritionally Balanced: Easily integrate vegetables and lean protein, making this White Chicken Lasagna Soup a wholesome meal.
• Modern Culinary Approach: Utilizes smart techniques to maximize flavor and minimize effort, aligning with innovative kitchen practices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this exceptional White Chicken Lasagna Soup demands attention to component quality. Precision in ingredient selection ensures a superior outcome, reflecting a true understanding of flavor architecture.

• For the Soup Base:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin for richness
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced for even flavor distribution
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic depth
  • 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced for sweetness and texture
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced for classic mirepoix foundation
  • 8 cups chicken broth, low sodium for precise seasoning control
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces for quick cooking and tender results
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, for a concentrated herbaceous profile
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional, for a subtle heat dimension
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, for foundational seasoning
• For the Lasagna Elements:
  • 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces (use oven-ready for efficiency)
  • ½ cup heavy cream, for luxurious body and mouthfeel
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%), for balancing richness
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for sharp, salty umami
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for gooey texture and mild creaminess
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened, for ultimate creaminess and stability
  • ½ cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional, for color and nutrients)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a bright, fresh finish

Substitutions & Variations

As a pragmatic expert, I understand the need for adaptability without compromising quality or health. This White Chicken Lasagna Soup provides an excellent framework for strategic modifications.

• Protein Power-Up: Substitute chicken with lean ground turkey or even white beans for a vegetarian option. Ensure adequate seasoning if opting for plant-based alternatives.
• Noodle Nuance: Explore whole wheat lasagna noodles for increased fiber, or gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary restrictions. Break them slightly smaller to prevent clumping.
• Vegetable Fortification: Introduce finely chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers during the sautéing phase to boost nutrient density. Add hardy greens like kale towards the end of cooking for optimal texture.
• Dairy Dynamics: For a lighter profile, utilize low-fat cream cheese and milk. A splash of unsweetened almond milk can also work, but adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Spice Spectrum: Elevate the flavor profile with a pinch of nutmeg alongside the Italian seasoning for an authentic béchamel note, or a dash of smoked paprika for earthy depth.

As a pragmatic expert, I understand the need for adaptability without compromising quality or health. Check out The Best Cheesy Chicken-Filled Crescents for more protein-rich meal ideas that you can quickly modify to suit your family’s preferences.

Equipment You’ll Need

Achieving culinary excellence, even with a seemingly simple soup, hinges on employing the right tools. Adam advocates for modern kitchen gear that enhances precision and efficiency in preparing this White Chicken Lasagna Soup.

• A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large stockpot (6-8 quart) for even heat distribution and ample capacity.
• A sturdy cutting board and a sharp chef’s knife for precise ingredient preparation.
• A wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula for stirring.
• A measuring cup and measuring spoons for accurate ingredient ratios.
• A ladle for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps precisely to construct a flawlessly executed White Chicken Lasagna Soup. Every action contributes to the final, delectable outcome.

1. Aromatic Foundation: Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened and translucent, ensuring the mirepoix sweetens without browning excessively. This builds the fundamental flavor layer for your White Chicken Lasagna Soup.
2. Garlic & Spice Infusion: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant, allowing the aromatics to bloom and release their full essence.
3. Chicken Integration: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pot. Season with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
4. Broth & Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Noodle Introduction: Add the broken lasagna noodles to the simmering soup. Stir well to prevent sticking. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. Ensure consistent stirring, especially during the first few minutes after adding the noodles.
6. Creamy Confluence: While the noodles cook, in a separate small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk until smooth. This creates a homogeneous mixture, preventing lumps in the final soup.
7. Cheese & Cream Integration: Reduce the heat to low. Stir the cream cheese mixture into the soup. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are melted and the soup is beautifully creamy. Avoid bringing the soup to a boil once dairy is added, as this can cause separation. This step defines the luxurious texture of our White Chicken Lasagna Soup.
8. Final Touches: Stir in the fresh spinach (if using) and chopped parsley. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve Immediately: Ladle the rich, savory White Chicken Lasagna Soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and parsley, if desired.

Follow these steps precisely to construct a flawlessly executed White Chicken Lasagna Soup. To take your dish to the next level, refer to 6 Ingredients For The Best White Cheese Chicken Lasagna for tips on the essential ingredients that will elevate your cooking.

Pro Tips for Success

Elevate your White Chicken Lasagna Soup from merely good to truly exceptional with these precise, technical insights.

• Mise en Place is Paramount: Prepare all your ingredients before you begin cooking. Dicing, mincing, and measuring ahead of time ensures a smooth, efficient cooking process and prevents critical errors in timing.
• Bloom Your Aromatics: Do not rush the sautéing of your mirepoix. Allowing the onions, carrots, and celery to soften and sweeten fully builds a foundational layer of flavor that permeates the entire White Chicken Lasagna Soup.
• Temper Your Dairy: When adding the cream cheese mixture, ensure it’s well-whisked and added to a gently simmering (not boiling) soup. This technique prevents the dairy from curdling, maintaining a silky-smooth texture.
• Noodle Management: Break lasagna noodles into uniform, manageable pieces (approximately 2 inches). Stir frequently after adding them to the soup to prevent them from clumping together and ensure even cooking. Using “oven-ready” lasagna noodles can sometimes result in less stickiness.
• Seasoning in Layers: Season the chicken and vegetables as you cook, and then adjust the final seasoning after all components are combined. This iterative approach guarantees a perfectly balanced flavor profile for your White Chicken Lasagna Soup.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Maximize the longevity and enjoyment of your White Chicken Lasagna Soup with proper storage and reheating techniques.

• Cool Promptly: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Divide into smaller portions if storing a large batch to expedite cooling and prevent bacterial growth.
• Refrigeration: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb liquid and may soften further, making the soup thicker.
• Freezing: This soup freezes remarkably well. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of extra chicken broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency, as the noodles will have absorbed a lot of liquid. Avoid aggressive boiling, especially if dairy is present, to maintain its creamy texture.

Maximize the longevity and enjoyment of your White Chicken Lasagna Soup with proper storage and reheating techniques. For a delightful pairing suggestion, consider The Best Chicken Marsala Recipe You’ll Ever Try to serve alongside your soup for a complete meal.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Complementing this rich White Chicken Lasagna Soup with lighter, fresh accompaniments balances the meal perfectly.

• Crisp Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s richness.
• Garlic Bread or Crostini: For a classic pairing, serve with warm, crusty garlic bread or toasted crostini for dipping into the luxurious broth.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus spears, seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, offer a vibrant green vegetable option that is both healthy and flavorful.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon, adds a healthy dose of fiber and a gentle crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this White Chicken Lasagna Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For protein, incorporate cannellini beans or white kidney beans, added at the same stage you would the chicken. You could also include sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and umami.

Why did my White Chicken Lasagna Soup become too thick after storing?

This is a common occurrence due to the lasagna noodles continuing to absorb liquid as the soup cools and sits. The starch from the noodles also contributes to thickening. Simply add a splash of extra chicken broth or milk when reheating, stirring until you reach your preferred consistency. This will restore the creamy balance of your White Chicken Lasagna Soup.

What type of lasagna noodles work best for White Chicken Lasagna Soup?

Regular, oven-ready lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces, work exceptionally well. They cook directly in the broth, absorbing the flavors. While traditional dry lasagna sheets can be used, they might require a minute or two longer to cook. Avoid fresh pasta sheets unless you reduce cooking time significantly to prevent them from becoming mushy in your White Chicken Lasagna Soup.

White Chicken Lasagna Soup is an innovative take on traditional lasagna, transforming the layered dish into a hearty soup that offers the same rich flavors with optimal convenience. For more insights into its variations and origins, visit this informative resource.

Final Thoughts

This White Chicken Lasagna Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to modern culinary ingenuity. It delivers profound comfort, rich flavor, and technical elegance in a single bowl, simplifying a classic without sacrificing a shred of its indulgent character. Prepare to redefine your cold-weather meal expectations with this remarkable creation.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This nutritional data provides an estimate for one serving of White Chicken Lasagna Soup, based on approximately 6 servings per recipe.

White Chicken Lasagna Soup

This White Chicken Lasagna Soup transforms a classic layered dish into an astonishingly creamy, robust, and effortlessly enjoyable bowl. Imagine tender chicken, al dente lasagna noodles, and a rich, cheesy béchamel all melded into a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a modern palate.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgi
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 8 cups chicken broth, low sodium
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into 2-inch pieces
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped, optional
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
5. Add broken lasagna noodles and stir. Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes until noodles are al dente.
6. In a bowl, whisk together cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk until smooth.
7. Reduce heat to low, stir in cream cheese mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
8. Stir in spinach and parsley, cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts. Adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.

Notes

Mise en place is important. Bloom your aromatics by properly sautéing. Temper dairy to avoid curdling.