If you are craving a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug in a spoon, this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It takes all the beloved flavors of classic chicken Parmesan—juicy chicken, rich Parmesan, savory garlic, and herbaceous Italian seasoning—and transforms them into a luscious, creamy soup that is both satisfying and hearty. Perfect for cozy nights or when you want a flavorful meal that pleases every craving, this recipe effortlessly blends familiar tastes into a bowl of pure deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and fresh ingredients is the secret to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from tender chicken pieces providing substance, to creamy Parmesan delivering that cheesy depth, and fragrant garlic lifting the entire dish with its aromatic charm.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: diced into bite-sized pieces to cook quickly and stay tender.
- Fresh garlic: minced to infuse the broth with a rich, savory aroma.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: the flavorful base that keeps the soup light yet hearty.
- Heavy cream: adds luxurious creaminess that rounds out the soup perfectly.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): bring a touch of acidity and bright color.
- Italian seasoning: a fragrant blend of herbs that elevates every spoonful.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: the star ingredient for that authentic chicken Parmesan flavor.
- Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken
Start by dicing the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces—this helps each morsel cook evenly and absorb the flavors better. Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden brown crust; this not only locks in juiciness but also adds depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Add Broth
Once the chicken is nicely browned, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about one minute—just long enough to bring out its fragrance without burning it. Then, carefully pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat until the broth comes to a gentle boil. This step creates a flavorful yet light foundation for the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Cream
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices to add a subtle tang and vibrant color. Pour in the heavy cream to introduce that luxurious creaminess characteristic of classic chicken Parmesan dishes. Let this mixture simmer for about ten minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 4: Season with Italian Herbs
Now is the time to sprinkle in your Italian seasoning. This blend of herbs—usually basil, oregano, and thyme—brings that irresistible Italian flair to the soup. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed, ensuring every spoonful bursts with perfect seasoning.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Lower the heat and gently fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into the soup, thickening it slightly and imparting that unmistakable cheesy richness. This finishing touch seals the deal on an unforgettable Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup piping hot, ideally garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up every creamy, flavorful bite—trust me, this combination is pure comfort food bliss.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped fresh basil or parsley can brighten the dish both visually and in flavor. Sprinkle some more Parmesan cheese on top for a melty, cheesy finish. A drizzle of good olive oil also elevates the richness and gives the soup a beautiful shine.
Side Dishes
While this soup is hearty on its own, crusty garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or even some roasted vegetables make fantastic side dishes. These choices add texture contrasts and round out the meal, turning a simple bowl of soup into a satisfying dinner experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make this feel extra special, serve the Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe in small, individual bread bowls or rustic mason jars. Topping each serving with crisp, homemade Parmesan crisps adds a playful crunch that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day! Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that heavy cream can sometimes separate after thawing, so gentle reheating and stirring will bring it back to its creamy glory.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to help the cheese reincorporate smoothly. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves time. Add it near the end of cooking to warm through without overcooking the meat.
Is this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is mild and focuses on the savory and cheesy flavors of chicken Parmesan. However, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup, but it will be less creamy and rich. To maintain thickness, you might need to add a cornstarch slurry while simmering.
What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?
For the best flavor and melt, use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano rather than pre-grated packaged cheese. It melts better and has a richer taste.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and seasoning don’t contain hidden gluten. Always check ingredient labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe quickly became one of my favorite go-to dishes for cooler evenings or anytime I need a cozy but nourishing meal. Its comforting flavors and creamy texture hit all the right spots, and it’s so simple to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Give it a try—your taste buds and heart will thank you!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Chicken Parmesan Soup combines tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and creamy Parmesan in a hearty broth. Perfect for warming up any day, it features a medley of Italian flavors simmered together for a satisfying and delicious bowl of soup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
Other
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces. Season them with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot with the chicken and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir in the diced tomatoes and heavy cream, then reduce the heat to let the soup simmer gently.
- Simmer and Season: Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in the Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed to taste.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the soup becomes creamy and rich.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread for dipping to complete the meal.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level in the soup.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will be less creamy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Adding fresh basil or parsley as garnish can enhance color and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure that the chicken broth and seasoning are gluten-free and omit any bread served alongside.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
