If you’re craving a comforting bowl that’s bursting with flavor and wonderfully easy to pull together, this Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It combines all the cozy, beloved elements of classic chicken parmesan—melty mozzarella, savory parmesan, tender shredded chicken, and a robust tomato base—into a warm, satisfying soup that’s perfect for any night of the week. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to make this, and the results are irresistibly delicious and soul-soothing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this soup both approachable and packed with flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and color that bring the dish alive.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and is perfect for gently sautéing the aromatics.
- Small onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory foundation to the soup’s flavor base.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Deliver that unmistakable punch of warmth and depth.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses the broth with classic Mediterranean herbs for true Italian-American flair.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a touch of heat for those who like a little kick.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): Bring a rich, tangy tomato flavor and vibrant red color.
- Chicken broth: Creates a savory, comforting liquid base that ties everything together.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and satisfying texture.
- Dry small pasta (ditalini or elbow): Provides a fun, chewy element that soaks up all those amazing flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty touch that enhances the chicken parm vibe.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, contributing gooey, dreamy cheesiness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): Offers a bright, herbal freshness as a garnish.
- Toasted bread or croutons: Perfect for dipping and adding crunch alongside your soup.
How to Make Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a slightly sweet and fragrant foundation that your soup needs to shine. Then, stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute to mellow and awaken those fragrant herbs and spices.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, combining them for a rich, flavorful soup base. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the ingredients to meld and the aromas to deepen. This liquid is where the magic starts to happen, so give it a good stir and watch the soup come alive.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Stir in your dry pasta of choice, like ditalini or elbow macaroni. Follow the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is perfectly al dente—soft but still with a little bite. Cooking the pasta directly in the soup means it sucks up all the wonderful tomato and herb flavors throughout.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Cheeses
Add the shredded cooked chicken along with the grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about five more minutes. This allows all the flavors to fully blend together and the chicken to warm through.
Step 5: Melt Mozzarella and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, stir in shredded mozzarella cheese or sprinkle it on top of each bowl to melt naturally. The gooey melted mozzarella is that final touch that makes this soup comforting and ridiculously satisfying. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you have it, and serve hot alongside toasted bread or crunchy croutons for dipping.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a lively burst of color and fresh herbal notes that beautifully balance the richness of the cheese and the boldness of the tomato broth. Fresh cracked black pepper on top is always a nice touch to finish off your bowl.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of toasted garlic bread or crunchy croutons, perfect for soaking up every last bit. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the hearty, cheesy soup beautifully, keeping the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the soup in large rustic bowls with melting mozzarella strings tempting everyone to dig in. Or, for a more elegant touch, ladle the soup into mugs for easy sipping at a casual gathering. You can also top with a few shards of Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for a gourmet twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a great option for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This soup freezes well! Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you want a comforting meal on a busy day, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Because pasta tends to absorb liquid when refrigerated, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up. Stir in some extra mozzarella for that fresh-out-of-the-pot cheesiness.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time, making the Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe even easier to whip up after a busy day.
Is there a gluten-free pasta option?
Yes, you can use gluten-free small pasta shapes or even substitute cooked rice or quinoa if you prefer, ensuring the soup stays delicious and appropriate for gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You could add cooked beans or extra vegetables to keep things hearty and satisfying.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic for a reason—Parmesan adds sharpness and saltiness while mozzarella melts to creamy perfection. Using whole-milk versions will make the soup richer and creamier.
Can I add cream to make it richer?
Definitely! Stirring in a splash of heavy cream at the end creates a luscious, velvety texture that turns the soup into a decadent, indulgent treat.
Final Thoughts
If you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple to make but absolutely bursting with flavor, this Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is a must-try. It’s an effortless way to enjoy the classic comfort of chicken parmesan in a warm, hearty soup form. I promise once you make it, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. Give it a go and savor every delicious spoonful!
Print
Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup is a comforting Italian-American dish that combines tender shredded chicken, savory crushed tomatoes, and tender pasta in a cheesy, flavorful broth. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, it offers the delicious taste of chicken parmesan in a warming soup form.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup dry small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Toasted bread or croutons (for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add seasonings and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook pasta: Add the dry pasta to the boiling soup. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
- Add chicken and cheese: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer soup: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes to meld flavors.
- Add mozzarella and serve: Just before serving, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese or sprinkle it on top of each bowl to melt. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with toasted bread or croutons.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Leftovers tend to thicken in the fridge; add a bit of broth when reheating to loosen the soup.
