There’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of White Chicken Lasagna Soup—a rich and creamy twist on the classic Italian dish. This soul-warming soup combines tender shredded chicken, spinach, and melted mozzarella in a luscious broth infused with herbs and garlic. The broken lasagna noodles soak up all the flavors, making each bite perfectly satisfying.
If you’re craving the heartiness of lasagna but want something warm and cozy in a bowl, this recipe is a game-changer! Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal for those chilly evenings. Serve it with a slice of garlic bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, if needed for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, thyme, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the broken lasagna noodles and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 10-12 minutes).
- Stir in the shredded chicken and spinach, letting them heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, then mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the soup is too thin, add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings:
The Origin of White Chicken Lasagna Soup
Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish known for its layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and rich tomato sauce. However, the white lasagna variation, sometimes called Lasagna Bianca, swaps out the red sauce for a creamy, béchamel-style sauce or Alfredo sauce, offering a milder, cheesier flavor. This comforting soup takes inspiration from White Chicken Lasagna, bringing all its delicious components into a one-pot meal.
By transforming lasagna into soup, this dish provides a quicker and easier alternative while keeping the creamy, cheesy essence that lasagna lovers adore. Unlike traditional baked lasagna, which can be labor-intensive, this soup delivers the same rich flavors in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor!
Rich & Creamy – A silky broth made with heavy cream and melted cheese.
Quick & Easy – Get all the taste of lasagna without the layering and baking.
Family-Friendly – A comforting meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Customizable – Adjust the spices, cheese, or veggies to fit your taste.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your soup grainy. Grating mozzarella and Parmesan fresh will give the soup a smoother texture.
Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience – Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.
Break the Lasagna Noodles into Smaller Pieces – This makes them easier to eat and ensures they cook evenly in the broth.
Season to Taste – Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth in the creamy broth or a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Make It Healthier – Use whole-wheat lasagna noodles, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and add extra spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy soup with crusty garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables to complete the meal. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette also makes a great side dish to balance the richness of the soup.
For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits or fried onions on top before serving!
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb some of the broth over time, so you may need to add extra chicken broth or milk when reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from separating. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the dairy to curdle.
Freezing Tip: If you plan to freeze this soup, cook the lasagna noodles separately and add them in when reheating to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use mushrooms or cannellini beans instead.
Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or crab for a seafood-inspired version.
Extra Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for an extra aromatic and bold flavor.
Different Cheeses: Try swapping mozzarella with provolone, Gouda, or fontina for a different cheesy profile.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
History & Evolution of Lasagna Soup
Lasagna has origins dating back to ancient Rome, where early pasta dishes were prepared with layers of flat dough and various fillings. Over time, Italian regions developed their own lasagna styles, with Northern Italy favoring béchamel-based lasagna (Lasagna Bianca) and Southern Italy using tomato-based sauces (Lasagna al Forno).
Lasagna soup is a modern American twist on this classic dish. By transforming the layered pasta dish into a one-pot meal, home cooks and chefs created a simpler, faster way to enjoy all the flavors of lasagna without the long baking time. This white version swaps the traditional marinara for a creamy, cheesy broth infused with garlic, basil, and tender chicken.
Texture & Flavor Profile
White Chicken Lasagna Soup has a rich, velvety texture thanks to the combination of heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The broken lasagna noodles absorb the flavors, becoming soft yet firm like classic lasagna pasta. The addition of shredded chicken and spinach provides contrast, offering a balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly herby flavors in each spoonful.
If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer, or add more cheese. For a thinner consistency, simply increase the amount of broth or milk.
What to Serve with White Chicken Lasagna Soup
This soup is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience. Here are some excellent serving ideas:
Garlic Bread – The crispy, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
Simple Green Salad – A light Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness.
Parmesan Crisps – Instead of crackers, enjoy crispy cheese bites for an extra crunch.
White Wine (see pairing below) – A light, acidic wine cuts through the creaminess.
Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.
Wine Pairing for White Chicken Lasagna Soup
A good wine pairing enhances the flavors of the soup while balancing its creamy richness. Here are the best choices:
Chardonnay – A lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creamy broth without overpowering it.
Sauvignon Blanc – The crisp acidity of Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness, making each sip refreshing.
Pinot Grigio – A neutral, easy-to-drink choice that won’t clash with the dish’s flavors.
Prosecco – If you prefer a sparkling option, Prosecco’s bubbly freshness pairs well.
For those who prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir can work, but avoid anything too bold like Cabernet Sauvignon, which may overpower the dish.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Overcooking the Noodles – The pasta continues to absorb liquid after cooking. To avoid mushy noodles, cook them al dente or boil separately and add them just before serving.
Curdled Soup – If the heat is too high when adding the milk and cheese, the soup may separate. Keep the heat low when incorporating dairy ingredients.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – Many store-bought shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the best creamy consistency, grate fresh cheese from a block.
Skipping the Seasoning – White sauces can be bland without enough seasoning. Make sure to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and garlic to bring out the full flavor.
Soup Too Thick? – Simply add a bit more chicken broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.
Soup Too Thin? – Add more cheese or a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water) and let it simmer for a few extra minutes.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips
White Chicken Lasagna Soup is great for meal prep, but here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Storage: Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If freezing, do not add the noodles beforehand. Instead, cook and store them separately. Freeze the soup base for up to 2 months and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup on low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture if it thickened in the fridge. Avoid boiling.
Creative Variations of White Chicken Lasagna Soup
This soup is easily adaptable! Here are some ideas for changing up the recipe:
Extra Cheesy: Add cream cheese or ricotta for an even creamier texture.
Herby Boost: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for a more fragrant broth.
Bacon Lover’s Twist: Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat.
Tomato Cream Version: Stir in a spoonful of marinara sauce for a pink-hued broth.
Beefy Variation: Use ground beef instead of chicken for a richer, more traditional lasagna taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have lasagna noodles, you can use bowtie, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or substitute with zucchini noodles.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I use raw chicken instead of pre-cooked?
Yes! Cut raw chicken into small pieces and simmer in the broth until fully cooked before adding noodles and cheese.
How do I keep leftovers from getting too thick?
Noodles will absorb liquid over time. When reheating, add a bit of extra broth or milk to thin it out.
Conclusion
White Chicken Lasagna Soup is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful twist on the classic lasagna, bringing together tender chicken, hearty pasta, rich cheeses, and aromatic herbs in a one-pot meal. It delivers all the indulgence of traditional lasagna but in a cozy, spoonable format that’s easier and quicker to make.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cold-weather meals, this soup is both satisfying and versatile, allowing you to customize it with different cheeses, proteins, or vegetables to suit your taste. Whether you serve it with crusty garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or simply on its own, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your home.
With easy storage and reheating options, this soup is great for meal prep and can be adjusted to be gluten-free, vegetarian, or even spicier for those who love a little heat.
If you’re craving the flavors of lasagna without the layering and baking, this White Chicken Lasagna Soup is the perfect recipe to try. Rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to every bowl!