Chicken Parmesan Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, this Chicken Parmesan Soup is just what you need! It combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and cheesy goodness into one delightful dish. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends at gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on chilly days!

What makes this recipe special is how it brings together the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan in a cozy soup form. The combination of herbs, fresh veggies, and pasta creates a nourishing meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Chicken Parmesan Soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy and hearty soups! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes based on what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
• Comforting Flavor: With all the familiar tastes of chicken Parmesan, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Chicken Parmesan Soup. You’ll find that everything you need is likely already in your pantry or fridge!

For the 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

For the Broth

• 4 cups chicken broth
• (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

For the Pasta and Greens

• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale

For Serving

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Grated mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
• Crusty bread, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Parmesan Soup is its flexibility! You can mix things up based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of raw chicken for an even quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or provolone for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños!

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Sauté 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. Sautéing these aromatics first builds a flavor foundation that enhances your soup.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. This step is crucial because browning adds depth to the flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Add Spices

Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well. These spices bring out that delicious Italian flair we love from classic chicken Parmesan.

Step 4: Pour in Broth & Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth along with diced tomatoes (juice included) and tomato paste. Stir everything together before bringing it all to a gentle boil. This is where your soup starts transforming into something truly special!

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add your small pasta to the pot next. Cook according to package instructions until al dente while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking pasta directly in the soup allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Greens

Once your pasta is cooked perfectly al dente, reduce heat to low. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with chopped spinach or kale until wilted—about 2-3 minutes should do it! The cheese adds creaminess while greens boost nutrition.

Step 7: Taste & Adjust Seasoning

Now’s your chance! Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. A little tweaking here ensures every bowl is bursting with flavor just right for you!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Serve hot! Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle some grated mozzarella cheese on top if desired. Don’t forget that crusty bread for dipping—trust me; it’s heavenly!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this Chicken Parmesan Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan Soup

Creating the perfect Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your soup is both delicious and comforting.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup, making it taste vibrant and wholesome.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For those who like a kick, feel free to add more!
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to sneak in additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
• Make it ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld together. Make a big batch for meal prep and enjoy it throughout the week!
• Customize the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for unique flavor variations while still keeping that cheesy goodness.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup

Serving Chicken Parmesan Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that brightens the flavors.
• Grated mozzarella cheese: Melting mozzarella on top gives a gooey texture that complements the soup beautifully.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A little extra virgin olive oil right before serving enhances richness and adds a lovely sheen.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into your hearty soup, crusty bread provides a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy broth.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing balances well with the rich flavors of the soup, making for a refreshing side.
• Garlic knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are not only delicious but also perfect for soaking up every last bit of your Chicken Parmesan Soup.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables offers a colorful and nutritious complement to your meal, adding both flavor and visual appeal.

Enjoy making your Chicken Parmesan Soup delightful not just in taste, but also in presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Parmesan Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips on how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, consider storing it separately if you don’t plan to eat it all at once.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• This Chicken Parmesan Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Parmesan Soup that might help you make this cozy dish even better!

Can I use leftover chicken for Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Absolutely! Shredded or diced leftover chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and will save you time.

How can I make Chicken Parmesan Soup healthier?

You can boost the nutritional value by adding more veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Additionally, using whole-grain pasta can enhance its health benefits.

What type of cheese can I use besides Parmesan?

While Parmesan adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute with Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano if you prefer something different.

Is Chicken Parmesan Soup good for meal prep?

Yes! This Chicken Parmesan Soup stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Can I omit the pasta from Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Yes! If you want a lighter version, feel free to skip the pasta or replace it with a gluten-free alternative like rice or quinoa.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Parmesan Soup as much as I do! It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!