If you are craving a cozy, comforting meal that captures all the best flavors of classic Italian cooking, this Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is here to delight you. Imagine the rich tang of crushed tomatoes mingling with tender shredded chicken and tender pasta, all brought together with the perfect blend of aromatic herbs and melting cheeses. This soup is a wonderful twist on the beloved chicken Parmesan dish, reimagined as a warm, hearty bowl that’s simple to prepare but packed with soul-satisfying flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe lies in a handful of wholesome ingredients that blend effortlessly to create a dish bursting with taste and texture. Each element plays a key role—from the golden olive oil that carries the aromatics to the cheeses that add luscious creaminess and savory depth.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing that unlocks the flavors of onion and garlic.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and body to the broth when softened gently.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuse the soup with their iconic, fragrant punch.
- Dried oregano: Offers warm, slightly peppery notes essential to Italian dishes.
- Dried basil: Complements oregano with its sweet, herbal undertones.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Bring a subtle heat kick that livens up the soup beautifully.
- Crushed tomatoes (28-ounce can): Form the rich, tangy foundation for this hearty soup.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture, uniting all flavors harmoniously.
- Cooked, shredded chicken: Makes the dish protein-packed and satisfying.
- Salt and black pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance and balance the taste.
- Small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni): Offers a tender bite that soaks up the flavorful broth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup for nutty, savory richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates melty, gooey, irresistible pockets atop the soup.
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped): Brightens the presentation and freshness with a pop of green.
- Panko breadcrumbs (optional): Adds a delightful crunch as a topping to contrast the creamy soup.
How to Make Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the diced onion. Cooking it for a few minutes until it softens brings out its natural sweetness, setting a flavorful base. Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the dried oregano, basil, and, if you like a bit of spice, red pepper flakes. Let all these aromas mingle for about 30 seconds until you can’t help but breathe in that heavenly scent.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, mixing everything so the flavors blend seamlessly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer before adding the shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This step is where all the ingredients start to meld, creating a hearty, soul-comforting base just like your favorite chicken Parmesan.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the small pasta shapes and cook them according to their package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. This addition turns the soup into a fulfilling meal, with tender noodles soaking up the vibrant tomato-chicken broth. It’s important to keep everything on a gentle simmer to allow the pasta to cook evenly without breaking down.
Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and gently fold the grated Parmesan cheese into the soup. This step is where the soup gains that luscious, silky texture and adds comforting depth of flavor. Stir well until the cheese melts completely, binding everything together in delicious harmony.
Step 5: Serve with Mozzarella and Toppings
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and crown each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese. Let it melt naturally or pop the bowls under a broiler for a minute or two to get bubbly, golden cheese topping. For a satisfying crunch, sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs on top and finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil. Each spoonful is a celebration of textures and flavors worthy of loving company at your dinner table.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil bring a pop of color and refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and tomato broth. Don’t forget those melty mozzarella strands and the crisp panko breadcrumbs if you’re using them; they elevate your bowl from cozy to gourmet with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
This soup shines wonderfully as a stand-alone meal, but pairing it with a simple side salad dressed lightly with lemon or balsamic vinaigrette keeps the meal light and fresh. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also make excellent companions, perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth and soaking up every bit of that cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe for guests, try ladling it into rustic bowls and adding a swirl of olive oil on top for shine and richness. You can also assemble individual mini crostinis topped with mozzarella and a sprinkle of oregano to serve alongside, creating a charming and cohesive meal experience that will wow everyone around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the broth from absorbing other fridge odors. Before serving, a gentle reheat will restore the comforting flavors without drying out the delicate pasta and chicken.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, but it’s best to do so before adding the pasta to maintain texture upon thawing. Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge. This way, you’ll have an easy meal ready for busy days without compromising on that homemade taste.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help loosen the soup if it thickens too much. Add mozzarella just before serving to enjoy that fresh, melty cheese goodness every time you reheat this soup.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves you time. Just shred the meat and add it in step 2. It brings extra flavor and tenderness that complements the herbs and tomato base perfectly.
What pasta works best for Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even small shells are ideal because they hold the broth well and cook quickly. Avoid large pasta that might overpower the soup or take longer to cook.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant to keep the soup satisfying, and don’t skip the cheeses—they bring amazing depth regardless of meat.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely. The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can increase their quantity or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat to your liking. Just balance it carefully so the cheesy, tomato flavors stay front and center.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy if I’m making this soup ahead of time?
The best tip is to cook the pasta separately and add it when serving, or cook the pasta inside the soup just before serving if possible. This keeps the noodles perfectly tender without absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy over time.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is one of those meals you’ll find yourself reaching for whenever you want something delicious, satisfying, and straightforward to make. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that hug you from the inside out. Give it a try, and you might just discover a new favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend lunches. Your kitchen — and your taste buds — will thank you for it!
Print
Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup is a comforting and hearty dish inspired by classic chicken Parmesan flavors. It features tender shredded chicken, rich tomato broth, aromatic herbs, tender pasta, and a melty cheese topping, making it a perfect warm meal for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 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
Main Ingredients
- 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)
Cheese and Garnish
- 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
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Chicken: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add shredded chicken, salt, and black pepper. Cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly and integrates into the soup, adding richness.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into individual bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt naturally or place under the broiler for a couple of minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden topping. Sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs on top if using and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, keep the red pepper flakes; omit if you prefer milder flavors.
- Pasta can be substituted with gluten-free alternatives for dietary needs.
- The panko breadcrumbs topping adds a delightful crunch but can be skipped for a softer texture.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; add extra cheese and panko just before serving.
