Description
A heartwarming chicken soup with rich flavors, tender chicken, and creamy broth, perfect for busy evenings and impressing loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1-1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
- 6-8 cups chicken broth
- 6 oz pasta (small Italian shells work well)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2-1 cup grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese
- 2 1/2-3 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine, adding the flour in stages to avoid lumps. If using tomato paste, add it at this stage and stir to incorporate.
- Add the broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you stir.
- Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then add the pasta and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add cream, spinach, and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is creamy and well-blended.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy with a slice of warm, crusty bread!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat by adding more broth if needed.
