Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe: Cozy, Kid-Friendly Comfort Food
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate family-friendly dish. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and pasta, making it hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table—even picky eaters! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you just need a hug in a bowl. What makes it even better is how versatile it is—kids love the cheesy goodness, while grown-ups will appreciate the cozy Italian-inspired flavors.
I’ve made this soup countless times for my family, and it’s always a hit. The creamy broth, bits of juicy chicken, and the way the Parmesan melts into every spoonful will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Bonus: It’s simple to make, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like ditalini or small shells)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Pro Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time and enhance flavor by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s juicy and perfectly seasoned!
- Choose the Right Pasta: Small pasta like ditalini or small shells work best—they cook quickly and are the perfect size for soup.
- Don’t Add Pasta Too Early: Cook the pasta separately or add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Customize the Creaminess: Prefer a lighter soup? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half. Want it even creamier? Add more Parmesan!
- Make It Kid-Friendly: If your kids don’t love chunks of veggies, finely chop the carrots and celery so they blend seamlessly into the soup.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Lower Calorie: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or top each bowl with a dollop of ricotta cheese.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep in Advance: Chop your vegetables and shred your chicken the day before to save time.
- Make the Soup Base: You can prepare the soup (without the pasta) a day in advance, then reheat and add the pasta right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the shredded chicken and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the soup simmers, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until fully combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the soup and stir gently to combine. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan on top.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the consistency.
- Freeze: The soup base (without the pasta) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Conclusion
There you have it—Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup, the perfect cozy meal to warm your family’s hearts and tummies! It’s rich, comforting, and filled with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. If you give it a try, let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, tips, or questions—I’d love to hear from you! ❤️
