Chicken Alfredo Soup

Name: Chicken Alfredo Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 yellow onion (diced); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 pound chicken fillets; 8 ounces pasta (Mafaldine or your favorite); 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan; 3.5 ounces spinach; Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Ah, Chicken Alfredo Soup. It’s funny how recipes can be born out of a craving that spirals into something magical! I can still remember the first time I decided to combine the creamy richness of classic fettuccine Alfredo with the comfort of a warm, hearty soup. As I stood in my cozy kitchen, garlic sizzling in the pan, the fragrance wafted through the air, wrapping around me like a warm blanket. With the melting cheese and tender chicken enveloping each spoonful, I knew I had struck gold! It’s a dish that’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about filling your heart with love and warmth. Trust me, every spoonful of this delightful soup will make you feel at home, whether you’re cuddled up on the couch or sharing it with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy & Decadent: Indulge in the rich flavors of garlic, cream, and Parmesan. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Comfort Food Heaven: Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re simply craving something cozy.
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes—you’ll get a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing: A dish that everyone will adore; it’s kid-approved and adult-loved.
Nutrient-Packed: Spinach makes sneaking in those greens easy and delicious without compromising flavor!

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients

1 tbsp unsalted butter: This adds a rich, savory base to your soup. Always melt it in a large pot over medium-low heat for best results.
1 yellow onion (diced): A classic soup staple that brings a sweet and aromatic flavor when sautéed. Don’t forget to chop it small for even cooking!
4 garlic cloves (minced): The star of the show! Fresh garlic elevates the flavor—make sure to use a good quality press or mince it finely.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a lovely herby note. Feel free to mix your favorite dried herbs for a personalized touch!
4 cups chicken broth: The foundation of our soup! Use low-sodium broth for more control over the final saltiness.
1 pound chicken fillets: Protein-packed and tender! Cooking them in the broth keeps them moist and flavorful.
8 ounces pasta (Mafaldine or your favorite): We love Mafaldine for its chewy texture, but you can use any pasta you have on hand!
2 cups heavy cream: For that irresistible creaminess! If you want a lighter option, swap part of it with milk.
1 cup grated Parmesan: The magic ingredient! Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances the soup’s flavor.
3.5 ounces spinach: A nutritious boost! Toss in any other veggies you have on hand for added color and flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Always use fresh ground for the best flavor. Don’t be shy—season to your liking!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Get your prep done before you start cooking

Before diving in, let’s get everything ready! Grate that Parmesan, dice the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Taking a few moments to prep will make the cooking process flow seamlessly—think of it as setting your stage for a beautiful performance!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat that lovely butter over medium-low heat. Once it starts to sizzle, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. As they sauté, take a moment to breathe in the aromas—they’re pure bliss! Sauté everything for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the kitchen smells divine. Stir in the Italian seasoning and let those flavors mingle for a minute.

Pour in the Chicken Broth

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The steam will hug you as you wait! Once boiling, add the chicken fillets, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. The chicken will cook through and absorb all those delightful flavors.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and transfer it to a clean plate. Use two forks to shred the tender fillets—it’ll fall apart easily. Meanwhile, the broth continues to bubble away, infusing even more flavor!

Cook the Pasta

Add your pasta to the pot, cover, and bring it to a boil. Cook it for 2 minutes less than the package directions suggest for that perfect al dente bite. The cooking smell will remind you of your favorite Italian kitchen—so comforting!

Add the Cream & Spinach

When the pasta is nearly ready, pour in that luscious heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan. Watch as it transforms into creamy perfection! Toss in the spinach and let it simmer, just until it wilts—about 2 minutes. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors!

Final Touches

Stir in the shredded chicken, and finish off with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Give it all a taste and adjust the salt if needed. Now, ladle that soup into bowls and prepare to be wrapped in warmth!

Pro Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs always make a world of difference in flavor.
Chicken Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
Pasta Options: If you don’t have Mafaldine, any short pasta works wonderfully—like shells or penne.
Creaminess Adjustment: For a lighter soup, consider using a half-and-half mix instead of all heavy cream.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a delightful kick!
Seasonal Veggies: Swap spinach for kale or chard depending on what’s in season, or toss in some roasted butternut squash for autumnal sweetness.
Cheesy Upgrade: Try mixing in different cheeses, like mozzarella or fontina, for an extra cheesy delight.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Alfredo Soup in charming bowls, garnished with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a refreshing crunch! Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or an iced tea for a casual, cozy meal.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep this soup a day in advance! Just store the ingredients separately and assemble when you’re ready to cook. It lasts about 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge, or you can freeze single servings for a quick meal later on.

Leftovers

Transform leftovers into a delightful pasta bake! Just sprinkle some breadcrumbs and cheese on top, bake until bubbling and golden—it’s an entirely new dish that’s just as cozy!

Freezing

Yes! Chicken Alfredo Soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Store in freezer-safe containers; leave a little headspace for expansion. To thaw, simply move to the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until warmed through. Just add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if it thickens too much!

FAQs

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavors—adjust spices to taste.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! Vegetable broth or water works just fine, just make sure to adjust seasoning accordingly.

Can I add different proteins?
Of course! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked sausage if you prefer a different meat flavor.

Is this soup filling enough for a main meal?
Definitely! With the chicken, pasta, and cream, it’s hearty enough to stand alone. You could even throw in some beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber!

Final Thoughts

Oh, my lovely food enthusiasts, I can’t wait for you to dive into this Chicken Alfredo Soup as it will surely warm your heart and tickle your taste buds! This recipe is so approachable and versatile, just like a trusty friend who always brings comfort during cold and cozy nights. So grab your ingredients, turn on your favorite tunes, and let that kitchen fill with delicious aromas. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

And remember, whenever you find joy in the kitchen, you’re truly tasting life’s greatest blessings. Until next time, may your pots overflow with love and laughter!