Warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying, this Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup is everything you crave when the temperatures drop and cozy nights call for a bowl of homemade goodness. Creamy broth wraps tender ditalini pasta, juicy chicken, and rustic vegetables in a velvety hug of flavor, making it a go-to for both quick weeknight dinners and relaxed weekend meals.
Each spoonful delivers a comforting mix of texture and flavor—the kind that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether served with a hunk of crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl.
What Kind of Ditalini Should I Use?
Ditalini pasta is traditionally used in hearty soups due to its small tubular shape, which captures bits of broth, herbs, and vegetables beautifully. For this recipe, regular semolina ditalini works wonderfully. If you want a healthier spin, try whole wheat or legume-based versions, which add extra fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients for the Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken adds hearty protein and tender texture. Thighs provide a richer flavor, while breasts keep things lean.
Ditalini Pasta: The star carb in this soup, ditalini offers just the right size and chew to soak up the creamy broth without overpowering it.
Carrots and Celery: Classic soup vegetables that bring sweetness and depth. Carrots add color, while celery adds an aromatic backbone.
Potatoes: A starchy element that makes the soup extra filling and gives the broth a natural thickness.
Onion and Garlic: Foundational aromatics that infuse the soup with savory depth.
Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing body and umami.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: For that luxurious creamy finish that turns this from a regular soup into a craveable comfort dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and blends beautifully with the creamy base.
Butter and Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and richness, combining flavor layers effortlessly.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of herbs at the end brightens every spoonful.
Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Simple seasonings that bring all the ingredients into flavorful harmony.
How To Make the Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil and a touch of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to start softening the vegetables.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Nestle the chicken thighs or breasts into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth until the ingredients are just covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Shred and Return the Chicken
Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and give everything a good stir.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Simmer
Add the ditalini pasta to the soup and cook for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half along with a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and flavors to meld.
Step 7: Final Touches
Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving. Optional: a few cracks of fresh black pepper and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Serving and Storing Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup
This soup is best served piping hot in a deep bowl, topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Pair it with a crusty sourdough or garlic bread to scoop up the velvety broth. A light side salad with tangy vinaigrette also complements its creamy richness beautifully.
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the consistency thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente and avoid overcooking during reheating. You can also cook the pasta separately and add it to individual bowls before serving.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Absolutely. Just shred and add it in Step 4, reducing the broth simmer time by about 10 minutes.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Yes! Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a plain, unsweetened non-dairy milk like oat or cashew. Use a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for flavor.
What other pasta can I use if I don’t have ditalini?
Small shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or small shells work well too. Choose something that holds up in broth without overwhelming the bite.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Spinach, peas, or kale stir in easily toward the end. Roasted mushrooms also add a rich, earthy touch.
What if I want a thicker soup?
Mash a few of the cooked potatoes in the pot or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) during the last simmer.

Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup for Chilly Nights
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This hearty creamy ditalini soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. With tender chicken, rich broth, velvety cream, and cozy vegetables, every spoonful delivers warmth and satisfaction. Perfect for family dinners or meal-prepping comfort bowls all week long.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup ditalini pasta
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté onion for 4 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Place chicken into the pot and pour in chicken broth to cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
- Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in ditalini pasta and simmer for 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream and Parmesan. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner