Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a comforting and creamy dish featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful broth with fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Enhanced with a touch of cream and optionally vibrant greens like spinach or kale, this soup is rich, hearty, and perfect for a cozy meal.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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 cubes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Sauté Aromatics: 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, making sure not to let it burn.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and starts to turn golden.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook thoroughly.
- Add Cream and Parmesan: Turn the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Continue until all the cheese is 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.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan from a block for smoother melting and better texture compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Add Parmesan cheese gradually in small amounts on low heat while stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
- Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup.
- Fresh spinach or kale enhances the soup’s nutrition and adds vibrant color but is optional.
- Equipment needed: A large pot or Dutch oven with 4 to 6 quart capacity is ideal for making this soup.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, easy chicken soup, comforting soup recipe, Parmesan cheese soup, stovetop chicken soup