Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, diced
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Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (to taste)
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1 cup diced onions
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½ cup diced celery
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½ cup diced carrots
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
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6 cups chicken broth
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1 cup small pasta shells
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2 cups fresh spinach
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1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add diced chicken, season, and cook until no longer pink.
Step 2: Add onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Sprinkle flour gradually over the veggies, stirring well to avoid clumps.
Step 4: Stir in tomato paste (if using). Deglaze the pot with a splash of broth, scraping up the brown bits.
Step 5: Add remaining broth and pasta. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer 15–20 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 6: Stir in spinach, cream, and parmesan. Let spinach wilt and soup thicken slightly.
Step 7: Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with toasted bread.
Notes
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Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
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Substitute milk for cream for a lighter version.
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Add white beans or kale for extra nutrition.
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Tomato paste is optional but adds richness.
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Pasta will soak up broth over time—add more when reheating leftovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American with Tuscan influence