The Best White Chicken Lasagna Soup: A Cozy, Comforting Favorite
There’s something magical about a bowl of soup that can instantly transport you to cozy nights spent in the kitchen, with the aroma of bubbling goodness wafting through the air. For me, that magic comes alive when I make White Chicken Lasagna Soup. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening—creamy, hearty, and just the right amount of indulgent. This soup has become a staple in my home, especially on those busy weeknights when all I really want is an easy dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
I remember the first time I tried making this soup. It was a brisk fall evening, and I had just returned from a day that could only be described as chaotic. You know those days when everything seems to spiral out of control? Yeah, that was me—traffic jams, spilled coffee, and I burned the toast for breakfast. By the time I stepped into my kitchen, I was ready to throw in the towel. But then, I stumbled across a recipe for White Chicken Lasagna Soup, and I thought, “Why not?” Let’s channel that kitchen chaos into something beautiful.
As I started sautéing the onion and garlic, the sound of those ingredients sizzling was the sound of my day slowly melting away. The warmth from the pot wrapped around me, and before I knew it, the luscious aroma swept through the whole house. It was like my own little version of an embrace—just me and my pot of soup. In just under an hour, I wasn’t just making dinner; I was creating comfort in a bowl. And honestly, I didn’t expect to fall so deeply in love with a soup recipe.
But what makes this White Chicken Lasagna Soup special? It’s a full flavor explosion that you can whip up without breaking a sweat. Comfort food doesn’t have to take hours in the kitchen; it can be simple yet satisfying. Plus, it’s loaded with protein thanks to the chicken and cheese, making it a great option for those looking for high protein meals. It’s also budget-friendly—perfect for a busy family! So if you’re in search of easy weeknight dinners or just something to warm your soul, read on.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to Make: Seriously, if I can do it amidst the chaos of the day, so can you! It’s mostly about tossing ingredients into a pot and letting the magic happen.
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Comfort Food at Its Finest: The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness will feel like a cozy embrace.
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Meal Prep Champion: Leftovers taste even better the next day, so you can make it ahead and enjoy effortless lunches.
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Picky Eater Approved: The cheesy, hearty flavors are usually a hit, so it’s perfect for families with little ones or picky eaters.
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Health on a Spoon: Loaded with protein and veggies, this is a healthy comfort food option that doesn’t leave you feeling guilty.
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Versatile: You can customize this soup however you like—add more veggies, switch up the cheese, or even play with the spices!
Gather up your ingredients and let’s dive into the delightful kitchen adventure of making White Chicken Lasagna Soup!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Oh boy, where do I even start? The unique twist on traditional lasagna makes this soup stand out in the sea of winter comfort foods. Who would’ve thought that we could combine the rich flavors of lasagna into a soup and have it still feel like a warm hug? The creaminess from the heavy cream and ricotta cheese mingles perfectly with the rich chicken broth and zesty tomatoes. And let’s not forget the cheesy topping—that melty mozzarella and Parmesan elevate everything to a whole new level.
When you walk into a room where this soup has just been served, the aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the table. The intoxicating scent of sautéed onions and garlic ignites excitement in everyone’s bellies. And once you take that first comforting spoonful, the satisfaction and warmth that follows is unbeatable.
Ingredients
To make this hearty soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I usually go for rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can totally roast your chicken if you’ve got the time—either way, the shredded chicken adds that vital protein boost.
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8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: Traditional in lasagna, these noodles give the soup structure and that lasagna feel without all the layering!
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1 onion, diced: The fragrant foundation of your soup; onions are essential!
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3 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better! It adds depth to the dish.
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4 cups chicken broth: A good quality broth infuses the soup with savory goodness.
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1 cup heavy cream: This is where we get our luscious, creamy texture. Feel free to swap for half-and-half for a lighter version.
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1 can diced tomatoes: You’ll be surprised by how much flavor this adds!
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1 tsp Italian seasoning: It brings all the herby goodness we crave.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! It elevates the dish.
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1 cup ricotta cheese: The creaminess adds to the lasagna feel and is full of protein, making this a high protein meal.
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melty and gooey—who can resist?
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty note that balances out the creaminess.
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Fresh basil for garnish: A pop of color and flavor!
Tips for Ingredients
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Chicken: Use whatever you’ve got on hand. Leftover grilled chicken works great, too! Just shred it up and you’re good to go.
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Noodles: Don’t hesitate to swap in gluten-free lasagna noodles if you’re avoiding gluten.
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Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some goat cheese or feta for a different tang!
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Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. I mean, we’re all trying to eat a bit healthier, right?
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Don’t do this: Avoid using low-quality broth. It makes a difference, trust me!
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s dive into this glorious soup creation! Grab your trusty pot and let’s get cooking.
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Sautéing the Base: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil (about a tablespoon should do it). Toss in the diced onion and garlic. You want to sauté these until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3 to 5 minutes. Honestly, I could live in a world where onion and garlic are always sizzling; it’s that good.
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Add the Good Stuff: Stir in your shredded chicken, canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil. The beautiful aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm cloud of bliss.
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Toss in Those Noodles: Here’s the fun part! Break the lasagna noodles into pieces and stir them in. Lower the heat and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, until they’re tender. I always sneak a piece or two during this stage—oops! Just can’t resist.
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Creamy Heaven: Once the noodles are tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in your heavy cream and ricotta cheese. This gives the soup that rich, creamy texture that’s just oh-so-savory. Make sure you taste it here, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You know, for scientific reasons!
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Cheesy Goodness: Top your concoction with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the pot briefly to let the cheese melt into a gorgeous, gooey blanket over the soup. The sight alone is enough to make your heart skip a beat!
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Basil Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the top. That gorgeous green color? Yes, please! It makes the dish pop visually and adds freshness.
And there you have it! The aroma wafting from your kitchen should have everyone making their way to the table.
Tips for Best Results
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Prep Ahead: If you know you’ll be busy during the week, shred the chicken and chop your veggies ahead of time. It’ll save you precious minutes and make cooking on busy nights feel like a breeze!
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Simmer for Flavor: If you have an extra 15 minutes, let the soup simmer longer before adding the cream and cheese. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld together.
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Taste as You Go: Don’t wait until the end to taste your soup. It’s all about adjustments; you might need a pinch more salt or some extra seasoning.
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Thinning Out: Feel free to add more broth or cream if you prefer a thinner soup. Everyone has their own take on it, and there’s no wrong way!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
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Low Fat: Swap heavy cream for a lighter option like evaporated milk or reduce the amount of cream used.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with diced zucchini or mushrooms for a delightful veggie version, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
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Herb It Up: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a fresher taste. Basil, oregano, or thyme work great in this recipe.
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Cottage Cheese: If ricotta isn’t your thing, cottage cheese is a fantastic, high-protein alternative!
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Seasonal Swaps: In winter, think about adding in some kale or Swiss chard right when you add the cream. In summer, fresh tomatoes can take the place of canned ones for brightness!
Directions
- Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in broken lasagna noodles and cook until tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, ricotta cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
Alongside your soup, I recommend a light salad. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup brilliantly. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a slice of garlic bread or a gooey grilled cheese would be perfect!
For drinks, keep it simple with a crisp white wine, or go non-alcoholic with sparkling water infused with lemon slices. Or just cozy up with a warm cup of tea—because why not? This and a rom-com is perfection!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
First off, let’s be real: leftovers can sometimes be the best part. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored correctly, it can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to maintain that creamy texture—you know how leftovers can be!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
If you want to prepare this as a freezer meal, save the cheese topping until you reheat! Let the soup cool, then pour it into freezer-friendly containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, add cheese, and let it melt into delicious bliss!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the Noodles: Keep an eye on those lasagna noodles. Overcooked noodles turn mushy and can ruin the texture of your soup.
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Not Enough Seasoning: This soup deserves flavor! Taste and adjust seasoning as you go; don’t leave it to chance.
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Skipping the Cream: I get it; we’re all trying to eat a bit healthier, but don’t skimp on the cream! It elevates the soup into a comforting bowl of happiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook it fully before shredding. Instant pot or crockpot methods work perfectly.
Is it okay to use gluten-free noodles?
Of course! Just make sure to follow the package instructions regarding cook times since different brands may vary.
Can I double this recipe?
You bet! Just be careful with the pot size. A larger pot will ensure even cooking and prevent boil-overs.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A good cutting board
- A sharp knife for chopping
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A wooden spoon for stirring
- Airtight containers for leftovers
Final Thoughts
White Chicken Lasagna Soup will always hold a special spot in my heart and on my dinner table. Its comforting flavors and easy preparation make it a dish I know I can turn to time and again. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a connection to those cozy nights tucked in at home, good food, and even better company. I invite you to make it your own. Whether it’s adding your favorite veggies or swapping in a delicious twist, let this soup be a backdrop for your kitchen adventures.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!
White Chicken Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 8 oz lasagna noodles, broken into pieces These give the soup structure.
- 1 medium onion, diced Fragrant base for the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth to the flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use a good quality broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a rich, creamy texture.
- 1 can diced tomatoes Adds flavor to the soup.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavoring.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Adds to the lasagna feel.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Melty and gooey.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Balances creaminess with a salty note.
- as needed fresh basil for garnish Adds freshness and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken, canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles to the pot and lower the heat. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and ricotta cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Top the soup with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the pot briefly to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.



