Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Greens (Optional): If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- 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