Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup combines tender chicken pieces with a rich blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs simmered in a savory broth. Enhanced with fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition and vibrant color, this comforting soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Chicken and Broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Seasonings and Greens
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and starts to develop a golden color.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken cooks through completely.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat to prevent boiling, and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until each portion melts smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy consistency.
- Add Greens (Optional): If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block rather than pre-grated for a smoother melt and better texture.
- Add Parmesan cheese gradually and stir continuously on low heat to avoid clumping.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Fresh spinach or kale is optional but adds both nutrition and appealing color.
- Equipment needed: Large pot or Dutch oven (4-6 quart capacity).
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, chicken Parmesan soup, stovetop soup, comforting chicken soup
