Irresistible White Chicken Lasagna Soup is a cozy, comforting bowl packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and all the flavors you love from classic lasagna—but in soup form! It’s got a rich, creamy broth, tender noodles, sautéed onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs that make every spoonful feel like a warm hug.
I love making this when the weather cools down because it’s so easy to whip up and feels like a special meal without a lot of fuss. The combination of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses gives it a wonderful richness, and adding fresh spinach or basil on top really brightens up the flavors. I find that letting it simmer a bit helps all those flavors get to know each other, which makes it even more delicious.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this soup is with a big slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s perfect for a relaxed weeknight dinner or when friends drop by. Honestly, every time I make it, people keep asking for seconds, and that always makes me smile. If you’re a fan of lasagna but want something a bit quicker and cozier, this soup is definitely a must-try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using cooked shredded chicken breast for tender, lean protein. Rotisserie chicken is also an easy option if you want to save time.
Lasagna Noodles: Break dried noodles into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Fresh pasta squares can replace dried noodles for a softer texture.
Cheeses: Ricotta adds creaminess and mild flavor, while mozzarella gives stretch and melt. Parmesan adds a salty, sharp punch. For a lighter option, use part-skim cheeses.
Spinach: Fresh chopped spinach brightens the dish. You can swap it for kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a heartier green.
Broth & Cream: Chicken broth forms the flavorful base. Half-and-half or heavy cream gives the soup its creamy texture. For dairy-free versions, try coconut milk, though this changes the flavor.
How Can I Make the Soup Creamy Without Curdling the Cheese?
Adding cheese and cream to hot soup can sometimes cause curdling. To avoid this, follow these tips:
- Mix the ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and cream together in a separate bowl first.
- Slowly stir the cheese-cream mixture into the soup over low heat.
- Keep the soup warm but avoid boiling after adding cream and cheese.
- Stir gently and consistently to distribute heat evenly and prevent clumps.
These steps help the cheese melt smoothly and keep the soup silky and rich without any grainy texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large stockpot – perfect for cooking the soup all in one pot and easy to stir.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir without scratching your pot.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, celery, spinach, and herbs.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right.
- Medium bowl – to mix the cheese and cream before adding to the soup.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for Italian sausage for a spicier, meatier soup.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies and texture.
- Use fresh basil or thyme instead of dried herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Stir in a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick that pairs well with creamy broth.
Irresistible White Chicken Lasagna Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 12 oz lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces or use fresh pasta squares
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and cozy meal ready in about 30 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
2. Add the Seasonings:
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the flavors come alive.
3. Add Broth and Noodles:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the broken lasagna noodles, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook according to the noodle package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until tender but still firm.
4. Add Chicken and Spinach:
Stir in the shredded chicken and chopped spinach. Let the soup simmer an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
5. Mix and Add the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, and half-and-half or cream. Stir until smooth. Slowly add this cheese mixture to the soup, stirring well to combine. Heat through gently, but do not allow the soup to boil to prevent curdling.
6. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or extra herbs. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley, and sprinkle some black pepper on top for extra flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Pair this comforting soup with crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for a cozy dinner that the whole family will love.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding and adding it to the soup. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave to speed things up.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding the cheese mixture. Refrigerate for up to 2 days, then gently reheat and stir in the cheese mixture right before serving to keep it creamy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it slowly on the stove over low heat and stir often to prevent the cheese from separating.
Can I Substitute the Lasagna Noodles?
Yes! You can use broken spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different pasta shapes cook at different rates.
