Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup: The Ultimate Cozy 30-Minute Meal

Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is the kind of recipe that gives you a big warm hug from the inside out. Picture this: it’s chilly outside, you’re tired after a long day, and all you want is something comforting, hearty, and satisfying—but without spending hours in the kitchen.

This Easy creamy chicken pasta soup checks every box. It’s quick, rich, and creamy, yet light enough to not leave you feeling sluggish. The combination of shredded chicken, soft ditalini pasta, and velvety cheese creates a flavor harmony that feels homemade with minimal effort. And here’s the best part—it’s ready in under 30 minutes. So whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Grab your spoon—dinner is about to get cozy.

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What is Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup?

Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is the perfect blend between classic chicken noodle soup and indulgent mac and cheese. Think of it as the best of both worlds—comforting, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. The tender chicken gives it heartiness, the pasta makes it filling, and the creamy base, loaded with cheddar and cream cheese, gives it that irresistible richness that just melts on your tongue.

Unlike heavier chowders, this soup maintains a delicate balance, offering the creaminess you crave without feeling over the top. It’s a go-to meal when you want something homemade and hearty but don’t have hours to spend simmering a pot. If you love recipes like Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup or Homemade Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, this one will fit right into your comfort food rotation.

Reasons to Try Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

There are a dozen reasons to fall in love with Easy creamy chicken pasta soup, but let’s hit the highlights. First, it’s incredibly quick—prep and cook time combined take less than 30 minutes. Second, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes and more relaxation after dinner (because no one loves doing dishes).

Third, it’s versatile! You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken, switch up the veggies, or even swap the pasta for a gluten-free option. And of course, it’s a hit with both adults and kids—especially picky eaters who can’t resist the cheesy, creamy goodness. On busy nights, this soup is the dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. For other quick comfort meals, try One Pot Taco Spaghetti or Crockpot Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup.

Ingredients Needed to Make Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

• 1 lb (450g) cooked shredded or chopped chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken)
• 4 cups (1L) low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and fresh black pepper
• 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta (or any other small pasta)
• 2 cups chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Make Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

Ready to make this cozy Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup? Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to create a velvety, flavorful bowl of comfort that tastes like it simmered all afternoon—but in reality, it takes under 30 minutes.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start this step-by-step journey by heating 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Once warm, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and release their sweet aroma. This step is key—it builds the rich, flavorful base of your Easy creamy chicken pasta soup. If you love hearty soups with a strong veggie foundation, check out our Hearty Bok Choy Chicken Soup for another nourishing option.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Build Flavor

Once your veggies are soft and fragrant, stir in the shredded chicken. Whether you’re using freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken, it’ll soak up those savory flavors beautifully. Let it cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. For a fun twist, try using leftover chicken from recipes like Crockpot Ranch Chicken—it adds an extra layer of tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth to come.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Creams

Now it’s time to make things luxuriously creamy. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter touch), followed by the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir slowly as the cream cheese melts—this is where the magic happens, creating that smooth, velvety base you’ll crave. Cover the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to blend into a rich, comforting broth. If you’re looking for similar creamy soup inspiration, try our Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup—it shares this same luscious texture with a cheesy, savory twist.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat to medium and stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta. Then sprinkle in the shredded mild cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently to help the cheese melt evenly and prevent the pasta from clumping. Let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the soup has thickened slightly. This step-by-step process ensures that every bite of your Easy creamy chicken pasta soup is perfectly balanced with creamy, cheesy goodness and a comforting bite of pasta. For a beefier variation, take a peek at our Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta—same concept, different star ingredient!

Step 5: Stir in the Spinach and Season to Taste

Now that your soup is thick and creamy, it’s time to add some greens for a pop of color and freshness. Toss in the chopped spinach and stir gently until it wilts into the hot soup. Taste and season with kosher salt and black pepper as needed. This final step-by-step touch adds brightness and balance to your bowl, keeping it from feeling too heavy. If you love this light veggie addition, you might also enjoy our Ginger Lime Chicken and Rice Soup, which uses fresh ingredients for a flavorful finish.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Easy creamy chicken pasta soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. For an extra bit of flair, serve with toasted bread or homemade croutons. You can even drizzle a touch of olive oil or add red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. This final step-by-step moment transforms your simple pot of soup into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s cozy, satisfying, and full of flavor.

Each of these step-by-step instructions helps you build layers of taste and texture in your Easy creamy chicken pasta soup, turning basic ingredients into something special. For more comforting, easy dinner ideas, try our One Pot Creamy Chicken Soup or Delicious Creamy Tortellini Soup. They follow the same simple, foolproof method—because the best meals are the ones that make you feel at home with every spoonful.

What to Serve with Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to turn it into a full meal, pair it with some warm crusty bread or a simple green salad. A slice of garlic bread or a batch of Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet can also make a comforting side combo. If you prefer lighter pairings, serve with roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw for a fresh bite.

Key Tips for Making Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

For the best Easy creamy chicken pasta soup, don’t skip sautéing your vegetables first—it’s what gives the soup that “cooked-all-day” taste. Use rotisserie chicken when you’re short on time, and make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it in so it blends smoothly. If the soup gets too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. And finally, cook your pasta just until tender; overcooked pasta can turn the soup mushy.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup

This soup stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep. Let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 2 months. When reheating, add a bit of broth or milk to bring back that creamy texture—because soups tend to thicken as they sit. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the soup a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Add the pasta just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Can I use other pasta types? Yes—macaroni, shells, or even orzo work great.
Is it freezer-friendly? It is! Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of cream.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a pot of Easy creamy chicken pasta soup simmering away on the stove. It’s comfort in a bowl, easy enough for a weeknight, and cozy enough for a Sunday dinner. Whether you’re serving family or friends, this soup promises smiles and second helpings every time. If you loved this, check out our Amazing Sicilian Chicken Soup or Creamy Ranch Chicken in the Crockpot for more creamy, soul-warming dishes.

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