Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for cozy evenings. Packed with tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Step 2: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and starts to turn golden.
3. Step 3: Pour in chicken broth and add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors and ensure the chicken is cooked through.
4. Step 4: Lower heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until melted and the soup becomes creamy. If using, add fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use milk, but note the soup will be less rich.
• Add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme and basil if available for a brighter flavor.
• To make it gluten-free, confirm your chicken broth is gluten-free or make your own.
• Leafy greens such as kale or spinach add extra nutrition and color.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Avoid boiling during reheating to prevent the soup from curdling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cutting and cooking to ensure even cooking and better texture.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese works well as substitutes, offering a similar salty, nutty flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses with additives, as they may not melt smoothly.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 76 reviews

A rich and comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup combining tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy Parmesan cheese with fresh herbs and optional greens for a hearty meal.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy and Cheese

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Optional Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
2. Cook Chicken: Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and starting to brown.
3. Simmer Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to fully cook the chicken and meld the flavors.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Lower heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
5. Add Greens (Optional): If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
6. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

• Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream will lighten the soup but will make it less creamy.
• Fresh greens such as spinach or kale add nutrition and color but can be omitted for a simpler soup.
• For thicker soup, reduce chicken broth by simmering longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent curdling.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, easy chicken soup, hearty soup, comforting soup recipe