Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup: 15-Min Comfort

July 27, 2025

Creamy chicken pasta soup has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially on those chilly evenings when only something warm and hearty will do. I remember the first time I tried making a chicken pasta cream soup recipe from scratch; the aroma of simmering chicken broth, tender pasta, and aromatic vegetables filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. It’s surprisingly simple, and learning how to make creamy chicken pasta soup truly changed my weeknight dinners. This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, rich, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Incredible Flavor: It’s rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned for a truly comforting taste.
Quick Prep Time: With only 15 minutes of prep, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Family Favorite: This soup is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a perfect easy creamy chicken pasta soup option.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with chicken, pasta, and veggies, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes or added vegetables.
Pure Comfort: It’s the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Simple to Make: This easy creamy chicken pasta soup recipe is foolproof, even for beginner cooks.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious bowl of comfort. Here’s what you’ll need for this fantastic chicken pasta cream soup recipe:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni) – choose a pasta that holds its shape well.
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the veggies.
1 medium onion, diced – about 1 cup, for that essential savory base.
2 carrots, sliced – adds sweetness and color.
2 celery stalks, sliced – for that classic aromatic vegetable flavor.
3 cups chicken broth – the foundation of our flavorful soup.
1 cup milk – helps create a lighter creaminess.
1/2 cup heavy cream – this is key for achieving that luxurious, rich texture in your chicken pasta soup with heavy cream.
2 cloves garlic, minced – for a punch of flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic herb pairing with chicken.
Salt and pepper to taste – adjust to your preference.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) – for a fresh garnish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 medium onion, diced, 2 carrots, sliced, and 2 celery stalks, sliced. Sauté these aromatics for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their sweet fragrance.
Step 3: Stir in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Cook for just 1 minute more until the garlic is fragrant and the thyme releases its earthy scent. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Pour in the 3 cups chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the 1 cup small pasta. Cook according to the pasta package directions until it’s perfectly al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low. This is where our soup transforms into a beautiful chicken and pasta soup with cream. Gently stir in the 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded, 1 cup milk, and the star of the show, 1/2 cup heavy cream.
Step 6: Let the soup simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly. You’ll notice how wonderfully creamy it becomes, creating a truly satisfying chicken and pasta soup with cream.
Step 7: Season your delicious creamy chicken pasta soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, stir in the 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness and color. Serve this comforting chicken and pasta soup with cream hot and enjoy!

Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup: 15-Min Comfort - Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this soup absolutely perfect. Follow these tips for the most delicious, comforting bowl:

For the creamiest texture, don’t boil the soup after adding the milk and cream. A gentle simmer is all you need to heat it through and thicken it slightly.
Always cook your pasta separately if you plan on having leftovers. Adding pasta directly to the soup means it will absorb more liquid and can become mushy when reheated.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end! This is crucial for any soup, especially one with a creamy base.
Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy chicken pasta soup?

The secret is in the ratio of milk to heavy cream and not letting it boil after they’re added. This prevents the dairy from separating and ensures a silky smooth finish. If your soup isn’t creamy enough, it’s usually because the dairy wasn’t incorporated correctly or it boiled too rapidly. For more tips on achieving the perfect consistency, you can explore resources on dairy science in cooking, such as those found on foodscience.com.

Can I make creamy chicken pasta soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prep this soup ahead! Cook the chicken and vegetables, and make the broth base without the pasta, milk, or cream. Store these components separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the broth mixture, then add the cooked pasta, milk, and cream. This method is similar to how many recipes are prepped for convenience.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy chicken pasta soup?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta, which makes it mushy. Another is boiling the soup after adding dairy, which can cause it to curdle. Always cook pasta al dente, and gently heat the creamy components on low heat. For more cooking techniques, check out guides on serious eats.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

This hearty soup is practically a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few extra touches to make your chicken pasta soup for dinner truly special. For a complete and satisfying meal, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into that rich, creamy broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also offers a lovely contrast to the soup’s richness.

You can also elevate your bowl with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream right before serving. For a heartier meal, try serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food experience. If you’re looking for other comforting dishes, you might enjoy our turkey meatloaf recipe.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious creamy chicken pasta soup:

Calories: 420cal
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 650mg

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. Enjoy this comforting bowl!

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How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Proper storage is key to enjoying this delicious homemade creamy chicken pasta soup even after the initial meal. Once your soup has cooled slightly (don’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours), transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to freeze it for longer, be aware that the pasta might soften upon thawing, but it’s still a great option for future quick meals. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. For more storage tips, you can refer to general guidelines on foodsafety.gov.

When it’s time to reheat, allow frozen soup to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You might need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency. Microwaving is also an option; heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

What is creamy chicken pasta soup?

Creamy chicken pasta soup is a comforting and hearty soup made with tender pieces of chicken, pasta, vegetables like carrots and celery, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth. It’s a satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner and offers a delightful contrast to lighter brothy soups. If you enjoy this type of soup, you might also like our beef and bowtie pasta with alfredo sauce.

Can I substitute the pasta?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni, you can get creative. Rotini, farfalle, or even small shells work well. If you’re looking for something like a chicken fettuccine cream soup, you could use wider noodles, but be mindful they might break down more during cooking. For other pasta ideas, explore our recipes section.

Why is my chicken pasta soup not creamy?

If your soup isn’t as creamy as you’d like, it could be due to a few things. Ensure you’re using both milk and heavy cream for richness. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the dairy, as this can cause it to separate. Sometimes, simply adding a bit more milk or cream, or even a swirl of cream cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan, can boost creaminess.

Can I make this a chicken fettuccine cream soup?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be more like a chicken fettuccine cream soup! Simply swap out the small pasta for fettuccine noodles. Cook the fettuccine separately according to package directions until al dente, then add it to the soup at the very end along with the chicken and dairy. This prevents the fettuccine from becoming overcooked and mushy.

Variations of Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup You Can Try

This versatile soup is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Here are a few ideas to customize your bowl and make it your own. For a heartier and more colorful meal, try transforming it into a creamy chicken vegetable pasta soup by adding extra veggies like peas, corn, or even some chopped spinach in the last few minutes of simmering. If you love cheesy goodness, a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese stirred in at the end, creating a delightful chicken pasta soup with parmesan, adds an amazing depth of flavor and even more creaminess. You might also enjoy our crispy roasted cauliflower as a side dish.

You can also experiment with different protein sources, like turkey or even white beans for a vegetarian option. For a quicker preparation, a slow cooker version can be made by browning the chicken and softening the vegetables first, then adding everything else to the slow cooker. Just add the pasta towards the end to prevent it from getting too mushy!