There’s something uniquely satisfying about a big, steaming bowl of pasta soup—especially when it blends creamy comfort with the bold flavors of a Philly-style chicken dish. That’s exactly what you get with Chicken Philly Pasta Soup: a lemony, herb-laced meal that brings together juicy seared chicken, silky spaghetti, fresh zucchini, and a velvety sauce powered by cream cheese and garlic. It’s hearty yet bright, indulgent but surprisingly fresh—perfect for weeknights when you want something nourishing but not fussy.
With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish has quickly earned a spot in our weekly rotation, thanks to its satisfying texture, rich flavor, and high-protein profile. Whether you’re looking to elevate your usual pasta night or need a crowd-pleaser that still feels light, this is one to bookmark.
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Chicken Philly Pasta Soup: A Creamy, Cozy Twist on a Classic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A creamy, comforting Chicken Philly Pasta Soup featuring spiralized zucchini, cream cheese, seared chicken, and lemon for a fresh twist.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thin
8 ounces plain cream cheese, softened
3 medium zucchini, spiralized or thinly sliced
½ lemon, zested and juiced
1 large white onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound spaghetti
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon dried tarragon
1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons hot water
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then cook for about 3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet along with the diced onion. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic, lemon zest, and dried tarragon. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the pan. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
5. Mix in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce gently thicken. Add a small squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer on medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Add the remaining lemon juice during the final minute.
7. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in well-salted water according to package directions. Add the zucchini to the pasta water during the last minute of cooking, then drain.
8. Serve the creamy chicken over the spaghetti and zucchini. Finish with fresh basil and extra black pepper if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust seasoning as needed. You can substitute gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cream cheese to suit dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
What Makes Chicken Philly Pasta Soup So Irresistible?
There’s a reason this recipe has been quietly stealing hearts in kitchens across the country. It starts with that warm, creamy base—infused with cream cheese, lemon, and chicken broth—that gives the soup its rich, indulgent quality. But what truly sets Chicken Philly Pasta Soup apart is how it channels the flavor profile of a Philly chicken sandwich—garlicky, savory, and full of tender chicken goodness—into a pasta soup form that feels entirely new.
The spiralized zucchini adds a fresh twist, soaking up the sauce and giving each bite a little spring and brightness. It’s a creative way to sneak in more vegetables without sacrificing that decadent texture we crave in creamy pasta dishes.
And then there’s the citrus. A touch of lemon zest and juice lifts the richness, giving the soup a clean finish that keeps you coming back for more. The result is a well-balanced bowl that satisfies all the senses.
Ingredients that Build Layers of Flavor in Chicken Philly Pasta Soup
At first glance, the ingredient list might look simple—but each item plays a powerful role. The cream cheese is what gives the broth its signature silkiness, melting down into a luscious base that clings to every strand of spaghetti. It’s this rich texture that gives Chicken Philly Pasta Soup its cozy, stick-to-your-ribs quality.
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast keeps the dish lean while still delivering tender, juicy meat when sliced thin and cooked just right. A quick sear locks in flavor, especially when seasoned with a little salt and black pepper before hitting the pan.
Then come the supporting stars—diced onions, minced garlic, and dried tarragon. These humble pantry ingredients build a deeply aromatic foundation that makes the whole kitchen smell like home. Add in a cornstarch slurry for gentle thickening, and the soup transforms into a glossy, spoon-coating masterpiece.
Step-by-Step: Crafting the Perfect Chicken Philly Pasta Soup
It all begins in a large skillet, where chicken gets its golden edges. This first step isn’t just for browning—it creates those flavorful bits at the bottom of the pan that will later enrich the sauce. Once the chicken is set aside, sautéing onions in olive oil allows their natural sweetness to emerge, setting the stage for the garlic, lemon zest, and dried tarragon to build depth.
Lowering the heat before adding the cream cheese is key. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth sauce as you stir in the chicken broth. The cornstarch mixture comes in next, thickening the sauce just enough to feel luxurious without becoming heavy.
When the chicken returns to the pan, the magic starts. A quick simmer lets it soak up the sauce while finishing its cook, and the final splash of lemon juice balances the richness like a dream.
Meanwhile, spaghetti cooks separately in well-salted water. Zucchini is added in the last minute—just long enough to soften without turning mushy. Once drained, the pasta and zucchini nestle into bowls, ready to be topped with the creamy chicken mixture and finished with basil and pepper.
Serving and Storing Chicken Philly Pasta Soup
Presentation matters, even for weeknight meals. When serving Chicken Philly Pasta Soup, a sprinkle of chopped basil adds color and a burst of freshness that cuts through the creaminess. A final grind of black pepper over each bowl enhances aroma and brings everything together.
Leftovers? They hold up beautifully. Store any remaining soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but a splash of broth or water while reheating brings it right back to life.
This recipe is also meal-prep friendly. You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately from the pasta and zucchini. When ready to eat, combine and reheat for a meal that feels fresh without the effort.
Variations and Substitutions for Chicken Philly Pasta Soup
One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility. Want to use a different pasta shape? Go for it. Penne, linguine, or even pastina can all work well. For a gluten-free option, swap in your favorite rice-based or chickpea spaghetti.
If you’re dairy-sensitive, replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free version or try blended cashews and a splash of almond milk for a similarly creamy effect. Just be sure to keep that lemon in the mix—it’s the brightness that ties everything together.
Looking to add more veggies? Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can blend seamlessly into the base. To boost the protein even further, consider stirring in some white beans or topping with grated parmesan or a poached egg.
Why Chicken Philly Pasta Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Weekly Rotation
It’s easy to see why this dish checks so many boxes: fast, filling, flexible, and absolutely delicious. With just 5 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking time, it delivers weeknight convenience without compromising on flavor or texture.
Protein lovers will appreciate the 41 grams per serving, while those watching their macros can enjoy a balanced meal that doesn’t rely on heavy cream or butter. The spiralized zucchini is a clever way to cut carbs while enhancing flavor and nutrition.
And perhaps most importantly, it feels like comfort food. That’s the secret sauce of Chicken Philly Pasta Soup—it brings together cozy, creamy, tangy, and fresh in every single bite. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
For another creamy, satisfying chicken bake, check out this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake for more inspiration.
FAQ: Chicken Philly Pasta Soup Questions Answered
What’s the difference between Chicken Philly Pasta Soup and easy chicken pastina soup?
While both dishes offer comfort in a bowl, Chicken Philly Pasta Soup is creamier and richer, with bold flavors from lemon, garlic, and cream cheese. Easy chicken pastina soup, on the other hand, is typically broth-based and more minimal, often with fewer ingredients and a simpler taste.
Is Chicken Philly Pasta Soup like old fashioned chicken pastina soup?
Not exactly. Old fashioned chicken pastina soup is typically light, brothy, and often used as a soothing meal for recovery. Chicken Philly Pasta Soup is heartier and creamier, drawing influence from Philly-style chicken flavors with a pasta twist.
Can I freeze this soup with pasta and zucchini?
It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce mixture separately. Pasta and zucchini can become mushy after freezing, so cook those fresh when reheating for best texture.
What are good side dishes for this type of soup?
A crisp green salad or garlic-roasted broccoli pairs beautifully. Crusty bread or garlic knots are also great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Conclusion: The Weeknight Hero You Didn’t Know You Needed
Chicken Philly Pasta Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment. It brings all the warmth of a classic soup together with the indulgence of creamy pasta and the savory punch of seasoned chicken. The lemon, zucchini, and herbs elevate it beyond basic comfort food, while the easy prep makes it accessible even on the busiest nights.
So if you’ve been stuck in a weeknight dinner rut, this recipe is your ticket out. Give it a try, experiment with the add-ins, and make it your own. You might just discover your new favorite go-to.
And if you love creamy, comforting pasta dishes with a twist, don’t miss this Chicken Ranch Pasta Bake—it’s another weeknight wonder worth adding to your list.
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