Oh, friends, let me tell you about the cozy night I first stumbled upon my Deconstructed Lasagna Soup! Picture this: a chilly evening, the kind where the wind dances playfully outside, and inside, the aroma of sizzling garlic and caramelizing onions fills the air. I had cooked chicken leftover from the night before and was feeling a craving for something warm and comforting. Inspired by lasagna but too hungry for complicated layering, this glorious one-pot creation was born. Each spoonful was filled with rich flavors—tender pieces of chicken mingling with hearty noodles, all bathed in a creamy broth that wraps around you like a soft hug. It’s become a staple in our home, a dish that sparks joy and warmth, much like the lingering scent of basil on the countertop. I know you’ll love it too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Whip it up in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
• Flavorful: A delightful combination of spices and creamy goodness that warms your soul.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike will dive right in and ask for seconds!
• Comfort Food: It’s like a hug in a bowl, ideal for chilly evenings.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!

Recipe Snapshot

| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|—————|—————|———–|———–|————|——-|————-|
| Soup | Italian | 10 min | 20 min | 30 min | 6 servings | Easy |

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here!
• 1 onion, diced: This adds sweetness and depth to your soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The aroma of garlic sautéing is simply irresistible!
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Creates the perfect base for a rich flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works in a pinch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and comforting.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings that classic Italian flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: The perfect partner to our oregano, enhance that herbal goodness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: A little seasoning goes a long way to elevate the dish!
• 2 cups lasagna noodles, broken into pieces: These make for hearty, delicious bites.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted cheese makes everything better!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor that everyone loves.
• Fresh basil for garnish: Brightens up the dish with color and freshness.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it soften, stirring occasionally. Then, add the minced garlic, letting those sweet, savory aromas swirl around your kitchen. Trust me, this part is where the magic begins!

Build the Flavor

Once your onions are translucent, toss in the shredded chicken, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 glorious minutes. The flavors are mingling beautifully—take a moment to savor the scent wafting through your kitchen!

Add the Noodles

Time to stir in the broken lasagna noodles! Cook them until they’re tender, which should take about 8-10 minutes. You’ll start to see the noodles puff up and soak in all that delicious broth. Isn’t it delightful when a dish transforms right before your eyes?

Creamy Goodness

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Watch as they melt together into a creamy heaven! Give it a gentle stir to combine everything—this is comfort food at its finest.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your warm, inviting soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil. Dive in while it’s hot—nothing beats that first spoonful against the backdrop of a cozy evening!

Pro Tips for Success

• Use leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning! Taste as you go and make it your own.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, add more noodles or use less broth.
• For extra flair, drizzle a bit of olive oil or balsamic reduction on top before serving!

Flavor Variations

• Vegetable Twist: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a delightful kick.
• Herbed Delight: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor even further.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this comforting soup with a warm crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a delightful meal. I love to serve it in lovely bowls with a sprig of basil perched on top—simple farmhouse charm at its best! As for drinks, a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors wonderfully.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep components like the chicken and veggies a day in advance to save time. Once prepared, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the noodles may absorb some broth, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating!

Leftovers

Transform any leftovers into a delightful pasta bake! Just mix in some additional cheese, place it in a baking dish, and bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden.

Freezing

Yes, this soup can be frozen! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheating on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works, but stir halfway through for even heating!

FAQs

Can I use different proteins?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even sausage can work beautifully as a substitute for chicken.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! Swap the chicken for beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, bell peppers, or peas are wonderful additions. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Food, dear friends, is a canvas where love and warmth come together, and this Deconstructed Lasagna Soup is a masterpiece waiting to be enjoyed. I hope it brings just as much joy and coziness to your home as it has to mine. So gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite cozy tunes, and let’s create something truly special together. Until next time, happy cooking! 🥰