Easy Chicken Parmesan Soup: A Comforting Recipe!

It seems like just yesterday my daughter, Lily, came home from school with a craving. “Mom, can you make Chicken Parmesan, but like, soup?” she asked with those puppy-dog eyes. I laughed, but the idea stuck with me. Could I turn our family’s favorite comfort food into a cozy, slurpable soup? Turns out, yes! And it’s been a regular request ever since.

This Chicken Parmesan Soup has become a real winner in our house. It’s the perfect way to get that classic Chicken Parmesan flavor without all the fuss of breading and baking. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies. It’s funny how sometimes the best recipes are born from the simplest requests, isn’t it?

This is one of those recipes where I felt like I was experimenting in the kitchen. I had the flavors of Chicken Parmesan in my head, but getting the right texture and consistency for a soup was a fun challenge. I learned that using good quality chicken broth is key. And a little bit of cream cheese at the end? Pure genius!

Now, I make this Chicken Parmesan Soup with confidence, knowing it’s going to be a hit. The aroma fills the house, and everyone gathers around the table, ready to dig in. There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it tastes like a family favorite. I hope this Chicken Parmesan Soup becomes a cherished part of your family’s mealtime too. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting and delicious Chicken Parmesan Soup. Don’t worry – the ingredients are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store. And trust me, this Chicken Parmesan Soup ingredient list keeps things simple without sacrificing flavor!

Raw ingredients for homemade Chicken Parmesan Soup including chicken, vegetables, cheese, and spices
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cooked pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the best Chicken Parmesan Soup, I recommend using a good quality chicken broth. It really makes a difference in the overall flavor. I usually opt for low-sodium so I can control the salt level myself.

This Chicken Parmesan Soup is forgiving if you need to swap things out. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works just fine. If you want a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of cream cheese.

You’ll find everything for this Chicken Parmesan Soup at your regular grocery store, making it a convenient option for a weeknight meal. Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier blending into the soup. My family prefers when I use small shell pasta in our Chicken Parmesan Soup, but any small pasta shape will work.

How to Make It

Here’s how to bring this Chicken Parmesan Soup to life, step by step. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal on the table in no time. Remember, cooking is all about having fun, so relax and enjoy the process!

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This is the foundation of our Chicken Parmesan Soup, so take your time and let those veggies get nice and tender.
  2. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing while this Chicken Parmesan Soup cooks!
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer. This Chicken Parmesan Soup typically takes me about 30 minutes from start to finish.
  4. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know your Chicken Parmesan Soup is ready when the chicken is no longer pink inside.
  5. Stir in the cooked pasta. Cook for a few more minutes until the pasta is heated through. I like to cook my pasta separately to avoid it getting too mushy in the soup.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This is the secret ingredient that makes this creamy and delicious Chicken Parmesan Soup!
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. Don’t worry if your Chicken Parmesan Soup looks a little thick; that’s the cream cheese doing its job.

Here’s where I used to mess up my Chicken Parmesan Soup – now I always remember to soften the cream cheese before adding it to the soup. It blends in much easier and creates a smoother texture. While your Chicken Parmesan Soup is cooking, you’ll have time to prepare a simple side salad or some crusty bread.

Serving Ideas

This Chicken Parmesan Soup is a meal in itself, but here are some serving ideas to make it even more special. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a casual family dinner, or even a potluck with friends. This dish is all about comfort and flavor, and these serving suggestions will only make it better!

My family loves this Chicken Parmesan Soup with a side of garlic bread for dipping. The warm, garlicky bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful broth. It’s also delicious with a simple green salad.

Everyone reaches for seconds when this Chicken Parmesan Soup comes out with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a dollop of ricotta cheese on top. The extra cheese adds a rich, creamy element that takes the soup to the next level.

This Chicken Parmesan Soup is perfect for those nights when you want something really satisfying! It’s also a great option for a chilly day when you need a warm and comforting meal. It is also really delicious served with a crispy caesar salad.

For a fun twist, try serving this Chicken Parmesan Soup in bread bowls. It’s a unique and delicious way to enjoy the soup, and it makes for a beautiful presentation. If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day!

For a lighter version, you can use skim milk instead of cream cheese. I’ve also tried adding different vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, to sneak in some extra nutrients. My kids didn’t even notice! This Chicken Parmesan Soup reminds me of another family favorite, Chicken Alfredo Soup.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Parmesan Soup, answered with my best home-cooking wisdom. I hope these tips help you feel confident and ready to make this recipe your own! If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy Chili’s Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe.

Can I make this Chicken Parmesan Soup ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This soup is great for meal prepping. Just make the soup according to the instructions, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for my Chicken Parmesan Soup?

No problem! You can substitute with heavy cream or sour cream. Just add it in at the end, like you would with the cream cheese. It will still give the soup a creamy texture.

How do I store leftover Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Can I freeze this Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture of the pasta might change slightly. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken to make this Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Definitely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can use that to save time. Just add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.

What kind of pasta is best for Chicken Parmesan Soup?

I like to use ditalini or small shells because they’re a good size for soup. But you can use any small pasta shape you like, such as elbow macaroni or orzo.

Can I add vegetables to this Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Yes, absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. Just add them to the pot along with the carrots and celery. For more recipe ideas, check out Creamy Reuben Soup. Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup | Net Cooking Talk is also worth a look for slow cooker options.

The Final Word

This Chicken Parmesan Soup has truly earned its place in our family’s recipe collection. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a warm and comforting soup.

My Chicken Parmesan Soup Tips:

  1. Don’t skip the veggies. The onion, carrots, and celery add a depth of flavor that you don’t want to miss.
  2. Soften the cream cheese. This makes it easier to blend into the soup and creates a smoother texture.
  3. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

I’ve tried a few variations of this recipe with success. One time, I added a splash of white wine to the soup while the vegetables were cooking. It added a lovely depth of flavor. Another time, I used Italian sausage instead of chicken for a heartier soup. My husband loved that version!

My daughter, Lily, prefers when I add extra Parmesan cheese to her bowl. My son, Tom, likes it with a dollop of ricotta cheese on top. Feel free to experiment and find what your family loves best! This easy Chicken Parmesan Soup is truly adaptable to your own tastes and preferences.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it your own. I have no doubt that your family will love it as much as mine does. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the table with smiles on their faces. There’s just something special about sharing a warm, comforting bowl of Chicken Parmesan Soup with the people you love. So go ahead, get in the kitchen, and create some mealtime memories! The Café Sucre Farine offers another great version of Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup. You may also like An Affair From the Heart’s Easy Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe for more inspiration. This homemade Chicken Parmesan Soup is worth making at home for dinner!

Finished Chicken Parmesan Soup on the stove in a pot, ready to serve.

 
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Chicken Parmesan Soup

Delicious Bowl of Chicken Parmesan Soup

Enjoy all the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan in a hearty and delicious soup! This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

  • Author: Lyra Saint
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
  2. Add onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Pour in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add pasta and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Return chicken to the pot and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

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