Creamy Pesto Chicken Soup brings together tender chicken, fragrant basil pesto, and a rich broth that feels indulgent without being heavy. This recipe focuses on balance, using everyday ingredients to create a meal that works for busy evenings and relaxed weekends alike. The combination of pasta, greens, and cheese makes it filling, while the pesto adds depth without overpowering the other flavors. If you enjoy soups that feel both familiar and special, this dish fits neatly into that space and delivers consistent results with minimal effort.
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Creamy Pesto Chicken Soup That Delivers Comfort and Flavor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A comforting, creamy soup made with tender chicken, basil pesto, pasta, spinach, and cheese. Perfect for an easy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 sweet onion, diced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons basil pesto
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup water
1 cup small pasta
14 ounces artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
4 to 6 ounces baby spinach leaves
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup shredded Italian-style cheese blend
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and chicken, sprinkle with salt, and cook until chicken is mostly cooked and onion is soft.
2. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Add pesto and mix until combined.
3. Slowly add chicken broth, stirring constantly. Stir in water and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add pasta and artichoke hearts. Cook at a low boil for the pasta’s recommended time.
5. Stir in spinach about 2 minutes before pasta is done.
6. Add milk, reduce heat, then stir in cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning and serve warm.
Notes
Stir continuously when adding dairy to prevent curdling. Add extra broth when reheating if the soup thickens.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
H2: Why Creamy Pesto Chicken Soup Works for Weeknight Meals
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup as a balanced comfort option
This soup offers warmth and satisfaction while still including protein, vegetables, and herbs in one bowl. Chicken provides structure and keeps the dish filling, while spinach and artichokes add freshness that offsets the creamy base. The result feels comforting but not overly rich.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup with simple pantry ingredients
Most of the ingredients are easy to find and often already on hand. Olive oil, flour, broth, milk, and pasta form a reliable base. Pesto acts as a flavor shortcut, delivering herb and garlic notes without extra prep.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup that fits busy schedules
From start to finish, this recipe comes together quickly. Everything cooks in a single pot, which reduces cleanup and keeps the process efficient. It is ideal for evenings when time matters but quality still counts.
H2: Key Ingredients That Build Flavor
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup and quality protein choices
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook evenly and stay tender when cut into bite-sized pieces. They absorb the pesto and broth well, ensuring every spoonful includes savory flavor.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup with herbs, greens, and pasta
Basil pesto anchors the flavor profile, while spinach wilts gently into the broth. Artichoke hearts add mild tang and texture. Small pasta shapes cook directly in the soup, thickening it naturally.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup using dairy for smooth texture
Milk and shredded Italian-style cheese create a smooth, cohesive finish. Adding them toward the end prevents separation and keeps the soup velvety rather than heavy.
H2: Cooking Method and Texture Tips
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup cooked evenly on the stovetop
Cooking the onion and chicken together builds a flavorful base. Lightly browning the chicken before adding flour helps develop depth without drying it out.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup consistency control
Gradually adding broth while stirring keeps the mixture smooth. The flour thickens the liquid gently, while pasta starch contributes body as it cooks.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup without curdling or clumping
Lowering the heat before adding milk and cheese is key. Stir continuously and avoid boiling once dairy is incorporated to maintain a clean, creamy texture.
H2: Serving Ideas and Smart Pairings
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup with crusty bread or salad
A slice of toasted bread or a simple green salad complements the richness well. These sides add contrast without competing with the main dish.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup as a full meal
With protein, pasta, and vegetables included, this soup stands on its own. One bowl offers a complete and satisfying dinner.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup for meal prep
This recipe works well for make-ahead lunches. Store portions separately and reheat gently for best results. If you enjoy rotating soups, you may also like Tomato Basil Chicken Soup or Roasted Cauliflower Parmesan Soup for variety.
H2: Storage, Reheating, and Variations
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup storage safety
Cool leftovers completely before refrigerating. Store in airtight containers for up to three days to preserve flavor and texture.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup reheating tips
Reheat over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much during storage.
H3: Creamy pesto chicken soup ingredient swaps
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or swap spinach for kale. Gluten-free pasta works well if added carefully and cooked just until tender.
H2: FAQs
H3: Creamy pesto soup
This style of soup highlights basil pesto as the main seasoning. It pairs well with chicken, dairy, and mild vegetables, creating a layered but approachable flavor.
H3: Chicken pesto soup eating well
This recipe balances indulgence and nutrition by combining lean protein, greens, and controlled portions of dairy. It fits comfortably into a varied, mindful eating plan.
H3: Is this soup good for leftovers?
Yes. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for next-day meals when reheated gently.
H2: Conclusion
Creamy Pesto Chicken Soup is a reliable choice when you want comfort without complication. Its straightforward method, flexible ingredients, and satisfying texture make it a recipe worth returning to throughout the year. Whether served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers, it consistently delivers warmth and flavor in every bowl.
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