Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

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When I first made this Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup, I didn’t expect it to become an instant hit with everyone at the table. It was meant to be a cozy weeknight experiment, but the moment I tasted that velvety broth laced with cheese and herbs, I knew it was something special. It wrapped me in warmth and comfort like a favorite blanket on a chilly evening.

What sets this soup apart is how it manages to feel both indulgent and wholesome at once. With tender shredded chicken, creamy Parmesan, and hints of garlic and basil, every spoonful feels like an invitation to slow down. It’s the kind of soup that satisfies without being heavy, perfect for when you’re craving comfort but still want a touch of elegance.

I’ve played around with various chicken soups over the years, but this one? This one stays in rotation. It’s simple, hearty, and has that classic Chicken Parmesan flavor profile we all love, reimagined into a one-pot wonder. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes like my creamy beef and shells or stovetop creamy ground beef pasta, this soup will fit right into your comfort food lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

This soup brings everything you love about Chicken Parmesan into a spoonable format. It’s creamy without being overly rich, flavorful without requiring hours of prep, and cozy enough to become a weekly staple. The ingredients are pantry-friendly, and it all comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers both satisfaction and simplicity.

Ingredients

Chicken breast: Lean, tender, and perfect for shredding once cooked, chicken breast is the protein star of this soup.

Onion and garlic: These aromatics build a flavorful base that deepens the taste of the broth.

Crushed tomatoes: Adds a rich, slightly tangy body to the soup, reminiscent of traditional Chicken Parmesan sauce.

Chicken broth: A must for the base, it gives depth and ties all the ingredients together.

Heavy cream: This brings the creamy element that makes this soup so comforting and smooth.

Parmesan cheese: The signature flavor booster. It melts into the soup, creating a luscious, cheesy depth.

Italian seasoning and fresh basil: These herbs add an aromatic, savory Italian flair.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.

Pasta (like ditalini or small shells): Adds substance, turning the soup into a full meal.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and start building flavor.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts into the pot. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the pasta. Simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it heat through for a few minutes. Finish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Want to change things up? Swap out the chicken breast for rotisserie chicken to save time, or use boneless thighs for a juicier bite. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream can replace the heavy cream, and nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without Parmesan. For a low-carb version, skip the pasta and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

You can also play with the seasoning—add red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in a spoonful of pesto for a vibrant herbal twist. Instead of crushed tomatoes, try diced fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky edge.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves on top. It’s perfect with crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A side of roasted vegetables or garlic knots also complements the soup beautifully.

If you’re entertaining, serve it in bread bowls or pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio to elevate the experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, but stir well to redistribute the creamy texture.

If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up. It’s best not to freeze it, as the dairy can separate and affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Add all ingredients except the pasta, cream, and cheese to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Shred the chicken, then stir in cooked pasta, cream, and Parmesan before serving.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely and bulk up with veggies like spinach or zucchini. Also, double-check your broth and cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Absolutely. Just add the shredded chicken after the soup base has simmered and heat through before stirring in the cream and cheese.

Is Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup spicy?

Not at all, but you can spice it up with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal. Cook the soup up to the step before adding cream and cheese. When ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the final ingredients.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re into hearty, cheesy comfort foods like this soup, you should definitely check out cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce and creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta. These meals carry that same satisfying, indulgent feeling and are great for busy nights or cozy weekends.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup made your dinner table a little cozier tonight, don’t forget to save it! Pin this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it quickly when the next craving hits. Sharing is caring, so pass it along to friends and family—especially those who need a quick, delicious meal idea. Whether it’s by email, social, or text, this is a recipe worth spreading around.

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