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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe

4.8 from 64 reviews

This comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a creamy, savory delight perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken pieces simmered in a fragrant broth with garlic, herbs, and fresh spinach create a hearty and flavorful bowl, enriched with Parmesan cheese and cream for a velvety texture. A delicious and easy-to-make soup that combines protein and greens in a luscious, warming meal.

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 bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Component

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Greens and Garnish

  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Saute the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the 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 on the outside and starts to turn golden.
  3. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth along with dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and cook the chicken through completely.
  4. Create the Creamy Texture: Lower the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
  5. Add Greens (Optional): If using fresh spinach or kale, stir them into the soup until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block for smoother melting and better texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness slightly.
  • Adding fresh greens like spinach or kale adds nutrients and color, but can be omitted if preferred.
  • For an extra kick, consider a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté step.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, easy chicken soup recipe, comforting soup, Parmesan cheese soup, stovetop chicken soup