A steaming bowl of comfort on the coldest winter evening, where creamy alfredo meets tender pasta in perfect harmony. However, here’s a surprising fact that might change your dinner plans, traditional lasagna requires about 3 hours from start to finish, but this One Pot White Lasagna Soup with Chicken delivers all those beloved flavors in just 45 minutes. Moreover, this genius recipe transforms the labor-intensive layered dish into a soul-warming soup that captures every beloved taste you crave.
Furthermore, this creamy Italian comfort food brings together tender chicken, broken lasagna noodles, and rich alfredo flavors in one magical pot. Additionally, busy families across America have discovered this winter chicken soup saves both time and dishes while delivering restaurant-quality results. Therefore, whether you’re feeding hungry teenagers or hosting a cozy dinner party, this alfredo chicken soup promises to become your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients
The beauty of this white lasagna soup lies in its accessible ingredients that create extraordinary depth of flavor:
Protein Foundation:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs offer richer flavor)
- Alternative: Turkey breast or rotisserie chicken for time-saving convenience
Aromatic Base:
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (sweet onions work beautifully too)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Pasta Component:
- 12 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- Substitute: Wide egg noodles, pappardelle, or rigatoni
Creamy Foundation:
- 32 ounces chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half works for lighter version)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Cheese Blend:
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (adds authentic lasagna texture)
Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional heat)
Fresh Garnishes:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan for serving
Timing
This cozy one pot meal requires strategic timing for perfect results:
| Phase | Time Required | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes | Dice vegetables, cube chicken, gather ingredients |
| Active Cooking | 30 minutes | Sauté, simmer, add components |
| Total Time | 45 minutes | 25% faster than traditional lasagna |
Interestingly, traditional lasagna preparation averages 60 minutes of active work plus baking time. However, this streamlined version cuts preparation by nearly half while maintaining all the beloved flavors.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Base
Start by heating olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Next, season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot oil. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning once, until golden brown on both sides. Importantly, you don’t need to cook the chicken completely through at this stage since it will finish cooking in the soup.
Pro Tip: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to achieve better browning and flavor development.
Step 2: Build the Aromatic Foundation
Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside temporarily. Then, add the diced onion to the same pot, using the flavorful browned bits to create depth. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Subsequently, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Expert Insight: The fond (browned bits) from the chicken contains concentrated flavors that will significantly improve your soup’s taste profile.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour the chicken broth into the pot, scraping up any remaining browned bits from the bottom. Then, add the Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. This creates the flavorful base for your One Pot White Lasagna Soup with Chicken.
Step 4: Return Chicken and Add Pasta
Return the partially cooked chicken to the pot and add the broken lasagna noodles. Stir gently to distribute evenly, then cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches al dente texture. Additionally, the chicken will finish cooking during this time, becoming tender and easily shreddable.
Critical Note: Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken pieces using tongs or a slotted spoon. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. This step creates the perfect texture for your creamy Italian chicken recipe.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Base
Reduce heat to low, then gradually whisk in the softened cream cheese cubes until completely melted and smooth. Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. This technique creates the signature creamy consistency that makes this soup irresistible.
Step 7: Add the Cheese Blend
Remove the pot from heat temporarily, then gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, and ricotta. Mix gently until all cheeses are completely melted and incorporated. Return to low heat if needed, but avoid boiling as this can cause the cheese to separate.
Temperature Tip: Keep the heat low during this step to maintain the smooth, creamy texture.
Nutritional Information
This hearty winter chicken soup provides substantial nutrition while delivering comfort food satisfaction:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (6 servings) | Daily Value % |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 | 24% |
| Protein | 38g | 76% |
| Carbohydrates | 32g | 11% |
| Fat | 24g | 31% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Calcium | 420mg | 32% |
| Iron | 3.2mg | 18% |
Notably, this recipe provides high-quality protein from chicken and dairy, making it an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and satiety. Furthermore, the calcium content supports bone health, while the moderate carbohydrate content provides sustained energy.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Transform this indulgent soup into a lighter version without sacrificing flavor:
Dairy Modifications:
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened cashew cream
- Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt mixed with a splash of milk
- Substitute part-skim mozzarella and reduce overall cheese quantities by 25%
Pasta Swaps:
- Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for added fiber
- Try shirataki noodles for a low-carb version
- Add spiralized zucchini during the last 5 minutes of cooking
Protein Variations:
- Choose lean chicken breast exclusively for lower fat content
- Add white beans for extra fiber and plant-based protein
- Include diced turkey for variety
Vegetable Additions:
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale during the final minutes
- Add diced bell peppers with the onions for extra vitamins
- Include mushrooms for umami depth and additional nutrients
Serving Suggestions
Present this One Pot White Lasagna Soup with Chicken in ways that maximize both visual appeal and flavor:
Classic Presentation:
Ladle the soup into warmed bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and a crack of black pepper. Serve alongside crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping.
Elevated Serving Ideas:
- Create a bread bowl using hollowed-out sourdough boules
- Serve with homemade focaccia topped with herbs and sea salt
- Accompany with a crisp Caesar salad for textural contrast
Family-Style Options:
- Set up a toppings bar with extra cheese, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes
- Provide individual ramekins of grated cheese for customization
- Offer both regular and gluten-free bread options
Portion Guidelines:
This recipe serves 6 generous portions or 8 moderate servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep sessions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Prevent common pitfalls that can compromise your alfredo chicken soup:
Temperature Control Errors:
Many home cooks make the mistake of cooking the soup at too high heat after adding dairy products. This causes the cream and cheese to curdle, creating an unappetizing texture. Instead, maintain low heat and remove from heat when adding cheese.
Pasta Overcooking:
Adding pasta too early results in mushy noodles that break apart. Moreover, overcooked pasta continues absorbing liquid, making the soup thicker than intended. Therefore, time the pasta addition carefully and test for doneness regularly.
Cheese Addition Timing:
Adding cheese while the soup is actively boiling causes separation and graininess. Furthermore, cold cheese added directly to hot soup can create lumps. Consequently, always remove from heat and ensure cheese reaches room temperature before incorporating.
Seasoning Missteps:
Under-seasoning the base broth creates bland results that even cheese cannot fix. Additionally, failing to taste and adjust seasonings at the end misses opportunities for flavor balance.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage maintains the quality and safety of your one pot white soup:
Refrigerator Storage:
Cool the soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. However, note that the pasta will continue absorbing liquid, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.
Freezing Guidelines:
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly. The dairy components sometimes separate during freezing, but gentle reheating and stirring usually restore smoothness.
Reheating Methods:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding additional broth if needed. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly.
Make-Ahead Tips:
Prepare the soup through Step 4, then store the base separately from the dairy components. Add the cream and cheese when ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This One Pot White Lasagna Soup with Chicken transforms beloved lasagna flavors into a comforting, time-efficient meal that brings families together around the dinner table. Moreover, the recipe’s versatility allows for endless customization while maintaining the essential creamy, cheesy characteristics that make it irresistible.
Furthermore, this winter chicken soup proves that comfort food doesn’t require hours of preparation or complicated techniques. Instead, simple ingredients combined thoughtfully create extraordinary results that satisfy both busy weeknight needs and special occasion desires.
Ready to create this cozy masterpiece in your own kitchen? Gather your ingredients, heat up that Dutch oven, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite soup recipe. Don’t forget to share your results and any creative variations you discover along the way!
FAQs
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream, use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, and replace regular cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese shreds. The flavor will differ but remains delicious.
What if I don’t have lasagna noodles?
Any wide, flat pasta works well, including pappardelle, fettuccine broken into pieces, or even rigatoni. Adjust cooking time based on the pasta type you choose.
How can I make this soup thicker?
Create a slurry using 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the simmering soup. Alternatively, mash some of the cooked pasta against the pot sides to release starch.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Absolutely! Use about 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, adding it during Step 6 just to heat through. This saves significant preparation time.
Why did my soup curdle?
Curdling typically occurs when dairy products are heated too quickly or at too high temperature. Always use low heat when adding cream and cheese, and remove from heat entirely when incorporating cheese.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it continues cooking in the hot soup. Additionally, if making ahead, slightly undercook the pasta and store the soup base separately from dairy components.
Follow us on Facebook for fresh recipe ideas!
