When chilly evenings call for something rich, hearty, and undeniably soothing, nothing satisfies quite like a bowl of creamy chicken Alfredo soup. It’s everything you love about the classic pasta dish—only warmer, deeper, and spoonable. This comforting recipe blends tender chicken, velvety cheese, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta in a luscious broth, creating a soul-hugging meal that’s as elegant as it is easy.
From the first bite, you’ll recognize the familiar richness of Alfredo sauce. But instead of twirling your fork through fettuccine, you’ll be cradling a bowl full of cozy, savory magic. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this creamy chicken Alfredo soup hits the sweet spot between indulgence and simplicity. Let’s dive into what makes it unforgettable.
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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup for the Coziest Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
Description
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. With tender shredded chicken, bowtie pasta, and a rich, cheesy broth, it’s a hearty meal the whole family will love. Perfect for chilly nights and ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow onion, finely diced
3/4 cup diced carrots
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
4 cups chicken broth
8 ounces bowtie pasta
1 1/2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until they begin to soften.
2. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth base.
4. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Gradually add the chicken broth, then raise the heat and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until slightly thickened.
5. Add the pasta and shredded chicken. Simmer for another 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until fully melted and creamy.
7. Ladle into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a shortcut, you can substitute 1 cup of jarred Alfredo sauce for the butter, flour, and cream step.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
To make it gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Why Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup Is the Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something about creamy soups that taps into a deep need for comfort. With its velvety texture and rich, layered flavor, this chicken Alfredo soup brings immediate warmth—physically and emotionally. The aromatic blend of garlic, onion, and Italian herbs builds a base that’s deeply satisfying from the very first spoonful.
What makes this soup truly special, though, is its fusion of two beloved comfort food categories: creamy pasta and hearty soup. Imagine the creamy decadence of Alfredo sauce blended into a savory broth, filled with bite-sized pasta and shreds of juicy chicken. It’s familiar and fresh all at once—a creative twist on a classic that feels like a warm hug.
Better still, this recipe skips the shortcuts you often find in store-bought versions. There’s no artificial aftertaste, just real ingredients that deliver restaurant-style quality in your own kitchen. It’s cozy, yes—but elevated, too.
Building the Perfect Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup Base
A good soup lives or dies by its base, and this one starts strong with aromatics sautéed in olive oil. Diced onion and carrot bring sweetness and structure, while garlic, black pepper, and a generous blend of Italian seasoning wake everything up. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat—not overpowering, just enough to keep things interesting.
Next comes the roux: a butter and flour mixture cooked just long enough to eliminate the raw taste but not so long that it loses its thickening power. This is the secret to the soup’s creamy body. Instead of using canned sauces or thickeners, the roux gives it a silky consistency that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta and shredded chicken.
Once the roux is ready, the heavy cream and chicken broth go in slowly. This two-part liquid combo gives the soup its signature richness without becoming cloying. The broth brings savory depth, while the cream keeps things indulgent. It’s a balanced base that’s as flavorful as it is luxurious.
Bringing It All Together: Pasta, Chicken, and Cheese
Pasta is more than a filler here—it’s a key component. Bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) is ideal because it holds onto the creamy sauce without going mushy. As it simmers, it absorbs flavor and releases just enough starch to make the soup even smoother.
For the chicken, cooked and shredded is the way to go. Whether you roast your own or use leftover rotisserie chicken, the tender pieces soak up all the savory broth and stay juicy until the last bite. The beauty of this step is its flexibility: it’s a great way to use up leftovers while adding real protein to the dish.
Then comes the final flourish—cheese. A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan melts into the soup at the end, transforming it into something almost decadent. The mozzarella brings stretch and creaminess, while the Parmesan layers in a salty, umami punch that sharpens every flavor note. Stirring in the cheese off-heat ensures a smooth, dreamy finish without separation or grit.
Variations and Tips for Customizing Your Chicken Alfredo Soup
Sometimes you want the full made-from-scratch experience. Other times, convenience wins. If you’re short on time, you can absolutely make a version of chicken Alfredo soup with jar sauce. Just skip the roux and use one cup of high-quality Alfredo sauce in place of the cream and flour step. It won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still satisfy in a pinch.
You can also turn this soup into a baked pasta dish—just transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and broil until golden. Or portion it into containers for a week’s worth of lunches. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can reduce the cream and sub in half-and-half or even whole milk. The result will be slightly thinner, but still comforting. You can also bulk up the veggies or use whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup
While this soup stands strong on its own, pairing it with the right side takes the meal to the next level. A simple Caesar salad or roasted asparagus adds brightness and crunch that contrast beautifully with the soup’s richness. Crusty garlic bread? Always a good idea.
For a creative pairing, serve it alongside this Leek and Potato Stew. The contrast between the creamy chicken Alfredo soup and the earthy, herby flavors of the stew makes for a satisfying dinner spread.
You could also consider adding some steamed greens like broccoli or spinach directly into the soup, especially if you’re looking for an all-in-one meal. The greens fold in seamlessly and balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
Storing and Reheating Tips for Maximum Freshness
Leftovers? You’re in luck. Creamy chicken Alfredo soup stores beautifully for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The pasta will continue to absorb some liquid, so expect it to thicken slightly as it sits.
To reheat, use low heat on the stovetop and add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Avoid boiling—it can cause the cream to separate. Stir gently until warmed through and creamy again.
If you want to freeze it, consider leaving out the pasta and adding it fresh when reheating. This keeps it from getting overly soft and maintains that perfect al dente texture.
FAQs About Chicken Alfredo Soup
Can I make chicken Alfredo soup with jar sauce?
Yes, you can use a jar of Alfredo sauce as a shortcut. Replace the butter, flour, and cream step with one cup of your favorite jarred sauce and add it after the aromatics and broth. It won’t be quite as rich, but it works in a pinch.
Is this similar to Chicken Alfredo Soup from Olive Garden?
Absolutely—it’s even better. This homemade version mimics the creamy texture and cheesy flavor of Olive Garden’s version but uses fresher ingredients and no additives. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you like.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Definitely. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds a seasoned depth that works well with the soup’s other flavors. Just shred it and stir it in with the pasta during the simmering stage.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy dish to adapt without sacrificing taste.
Conclusion: A Creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup You’ll Crave All Season
This creamy chicken Alfredo soup has everything going for it: a velvety base, tender bites of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and melty cheese that wraps around every spoonful. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home—whether you’re curled up on the couch or gathered around the table.
Its versatility makes it a go-to for weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or even serving guests. You can keep it classic or customize it endlessly, and it never disappoints. If you’re in the mood to explore other soup recipes with big flavor, you’ll love this chicken and sun-dried tomato orzo soup—another one-pot wonder worth bookmarking.
So grab your Dutch oven, cozy up, and get ready for your new favorite comfort meal.
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