If you adore the comforting flavors of Italian classics but want something cozy and heartwarming, this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is a total game-changer. It captures the beloved cheesy, tangy essence of chicken parmesan in a rich, savory soup that’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave a bowl of pure satisfaction. Combining tender chunks of chicken, fragrant herbs, gooey Parmesan cheese, and vibrant greens in a tomato-based broth, this soup feels like a warm hug with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this soup means gathering a handful of simple yet absolutely essential ingredients. Each adds its own dimension from savory depth to fresh brightness, making every bite perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying.
- Olive oil: Use this to gently sauté aromatics, bringing out their natural sweetness and layering flavor.
- Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and hearty base to the broth.
- Garlic: Infuses that classic Italian aroma and a bit of zing.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein star, tender and succulent once cooked.
- Dried oregano and basil: These herbs provide that unmistakable Italian flair with earthy and peppery notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch wakes up the flavor with a gentle kick.
- Salt and pepper: The basics to enhance all the natural tastes in the dish.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful, comforting liquid foundation of the soup.
- Diced tomatoes and tomato paste: Together they create a rich tomato base with layered sweetness and tang.
- Small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni): Adds satisfying texture and makes the soup feel hearty.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in beautifully, giving that signature nutty, sharp richness.
- Chopped fresh spinach or kale: Brings color, nutrients, and a slight earthiness to balance the richness.
- Fresh basil leaves: Optional, but fresh basil adds aromatic freshness as a garnish that lifts the whole dish.
- Grated mozzarella cheese: Optional for an extra melty, cheesy indulgence.
- Crusty bread: Perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook until it turns translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step softens the onion and releases its natural sweetness, setting a flavorful base. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, filling your kitchen with that irresistible garlicky scent.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Pieces
Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces directly into the pot. Cook them until lightly browned and thoroughly cooked through, stirring occasionally so each morsel gets a chance to caramelize slightly. This not only ensures tenderness but also builds rich flavor as the chicken absorbs those aromatic oils.
Step 3: Season with Herbs and Spice
Sprinkle in dried oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together so the spices evenly coat the chicken and onions. This seasoning blend gives the soup a true Italian soul and a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the pot, followed by the canned diced tomatoes with their juice and a tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir everything well to combine and bring the soup up to a gentle boil. This rich and tangy broth is the heart of the Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe and will become even more flavorful as it simmers.
Step 5: Add and Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, add your chosen small pasta—ditalini or elbow macaroni work best—to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. The pasta adds delightful bite and makes the soup truly filling and comforting.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan and Greens
With the pasta tender and just right, turn the heat to low and fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with your chopped spinach or kale. Cook gently until the greens are wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step gives the soup its signature cheesy creaminess and a pop of color and freshness from the greens.
Step 7: Final Seasoning Adjustments
Now is the perfect time to taste your creation and tweak seasonings if needed. Add a little extra salt or pepper if the flavors need brightening or balancing, ensuring every spoonful sings with deliciousness.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup piping hot in bowls and top with fresh basil leaves and grated mozzarella cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread on the side to dunk and mop up every bit of that soul-warming soup.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves add a bright, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy broth. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or melty mozzarella cheese on top turns this soup into a luscious, savory feast. These garnishes elevate presentation and flavor without any extra fuss.
Side Dishes
This soup is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread makes it perfectly complete. You can also serve a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to lighten up the meal and provide some refreshing crunch alongside the warm soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an impressive yet rustic presentation. You can also sprinkle chopped toasted pine nuts or drizzle a bit of good-quality extra virgin olive oil on top to add texture and a lux touch. These little details make your Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe feel like a special occasion every time!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making your leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to keep the garnishes and bread separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, so it’s a perfect option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave for long periods, as the greens and cheese may not warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred or chop the chicken and add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through instead of starting raw.
What pasta works best in Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal because they cook quickly and blend nicely with the soup without overpowering it.
Can I substitute spinach with other greens?
Yes! Kale is a fantastic alternative for a slightly heartier texture. You could also try Swiss chard or even arugula for a different flavor profile, just add them towards the end so they wilt gently.
Is this soup spicy?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild warmth, so the soup has a gentle kick rather than being spicy-hot. You can adjust or omit the pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the chicken or replace it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is the perfect marriage of comfort food and Italian flair that you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. It’s simple to make, packs a ton of flavor, and always feels like a warm, cozy hug in a bowl. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
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Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and comforting Chicken Parmesan Soup that combines tender chicken, flavorful herbs, pasta, and greens in a savory tomato broth topped with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for a cozy meal served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Pasta and Greens
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
Cheeses and Garnishes
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Grated mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine the spices with the chicken and onion mixture.
- Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato paste. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Cook the pasta: Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add cheese and greens: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped spinach or kale, cooking until the greens are wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated mozzarella cheese, if desired. Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- Use small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Fresh spinach and kale can be substituted with other leafy greens you prefer.
- To make the soup spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when adding the cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; pasta may absorb some broth, so add extra broth when reheating if needed.
