Description
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup is a comforting, hearty dish combining tender shredded chicken, savory tomato broth, and classic Italian seasonings. Enhanced with Parmesan and melted mozzarella cheese, and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fresh herbs, it captures the flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan in a cozy, satisfying soup perfect for any day of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce and Broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Soup Base
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
Cheeses and Toppings
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Chicken: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the small pasta. Continue to cook according to the pasta package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Melt the Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and is well incorporated into the soup, giving it a rich texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt naturally or place under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden topping. Optionally sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Parm Soup!
Notes
- For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Broiling the mozzarella cheese is optional but adds a delicious golden crust.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta to make the soup gluten-free.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce cheese quantities or use part-skim cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
