Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Add the onions, carrots, celery, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables become translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour gradually over the vegetables while stirring constantly to coat everything and prevent clumping. Once incorporated, add the tomato paste if using and stir well. Cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta, remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Check pasta after 15 minutes. The chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature and pasta should be al dente.
- Remove the lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes. Add extra broth if soup is too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
Soup will thicken when stored - add broth or water when reheating. For freezing, omit cream and add when reheating. Cook pasta separately if freezing. Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts. Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for best flavor. Different pasta brands cook at varying speeds, so check early to avoid overcooking. Chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature.
