If you’re craving the comforting flavors of Italian chicken parmigiana but want something warm and cozy in a bowl, the Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This soup is a delightful blend of tender shredded chicken, savory tomato broth, fragrant herbs, and melting cheeses, all coming together in a rich, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a cool day. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe brings the best of chicken parm in a form that’s simple, quick, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great soup starts with fresh, simple ingredients that work harmoniously to build flavor and texture. For the Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward yet essential—they bring brightness, depth, and that signature cheesy finish that makes this dish a family favorite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A rich base for sautéing onions and garlic, adding heartiness to the soup.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and texture as it softens during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with a fragrant warmth that’s unmistakably Italian.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a classic herbaceous note that brightens the tomato base.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the complexity of the soup with subtle, sweet earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick, adjusting heat to your taste.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, offering a tangy and luscious tomato flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Builds a savory, comforting liquid base that brings everything together.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Provides protein and satisfies those hearty cravings.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle spice and balance.
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni): Gives the soup body and delightful tender bites.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup for sharp, salty richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The ooey-gooey topping that completes the chicken parm experience in each spoonful.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish): Adds vibrant color and fresh herbal brightness.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Creates a crunchy, golden finish enhancing texture contrasts.
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 for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent, the foundation of both flavor and texture. Toss in the minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them, then cook just 30 seconds more until the kitchen fills with those irresistible Italian aromas. This step is all about building a fragrant base that will carry the soup’s entire flavor profile.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring everything together to combine those nurturing flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the shredded chicken along with salt and black pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the rich tomato-herb broth and meld all the flavors beautifully, creating the heart of your Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Next, stir in your choice of small pasta, like ditalini or elbow macaroni, which not only adds substance but also gives a lovely bite amongst the tender ingredients. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes—until it’s perfectly tender but still holds its shape. This step takes the soup from simple broth to a filling meal that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan
With the heat turned down to low, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup, lending a rich, salty creaminess that’s essential to that chicken parm flavor you love. This cheesy touch is what elevates the broth, creating depth and a velvety texture that makes the soup utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Finishing Touches
Ladle the soup into bowls, then sprinkle a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Let it melt naturally or, for a delightful bubbly golden crust, pop the bowls quickly under the broiler. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle those toasted panko breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy contrast and finish with fresh parsley or basil for a splash of brightness and color. This final flourish is what makes the Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe feel special and celebratory, even on a simple weeknight.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to add a fresh punch and texture to the soup. Chopped fresh parsley or basil not only brightens the bowl with beautiful green flecks but also adds a refreshing herbal aroma that complements the rich tomato and cheese flavors perfectly. Don’t skip the panko breadcrumb topping if you enjoy a little crunch—it transforms the soup from cozy to captivating.
Side Dishes
The Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe truly shines on its own but pairing it with simple sides can turn it into a full meal. Crispy garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the cheesy, tomato broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette acts as a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup, balancing each bite beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can serve this soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls, turning every serving into an edible masterpiece. Alternatively, layering the soup and cheese in oven-safe serving dishes and broiling until bubbly offers an almost lasagna-like experience that’s unexpected and irresistible. No matter how you present it, this soup is sure to delight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making leftovers even tastier the next day. Just be sure to keep the mozzarella separate if you plan to reheat, so it stays fresh and melts beautifully when served again.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or busy nights. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to hold off on adding mozzarella and panko topping until you’re ready to reheat and serve to keep textures perfect.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly melt any cheese you add back in. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. For the ultimate finish, add fresh mozzarella on top just before serving to recreate that gooey, cheesy magic.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time when making the Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe. Just shred the meat and toss it in during the simmering step.
What kind of pasta works best in this soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even small shells work best because they cook quickly and fit comfortably on your spoon, balancing the chicken and broth perfectly.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep the texture satisfying while still enjoying the classic flavors.
Is the soup spicy?
The red pepper flakes are optional, so you control the heat level. Leaving them out results in a mild, family-friendly soup; adding them brings a gentle warmth that enhances the other flavors without overpowering.
How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a heartier, stew-like consistency, cook the pasta directly in the soup to absorb more liquid, or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold water near the end of cooking and stir until it thickens.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy all the flavors of a beloved classic in a warm, comforting bowl. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests. Once you try it, you might just find it becoming one of your go-to recipes—because who doesn’t want cozy, cheesy, chicken parm goodness anytime? Trust me, you’re going to love every spoonful!
Print
Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup is a comforting and hearty dish inspired by the classic chicken Parmesan flavors. Combining tender shredded chicken, aromatic herbs, savory tomatoes, and melted cheeses, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal. Topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, it’s a delightful twist on a beloved Italian-American favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Chicken: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken along with salt and black pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the small pasta and continue cooking according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts fully and integrates smoothly into the soup.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into individual bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt. For a bubbly golden topping, place bowls briefly under a broiler for a couple of minutes. Optionally, sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy chicken parm soup!
Notes
- Use cooked shredded chicken from rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time.
- For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes to taste.
- Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo work best for this soup.
- If broiling the soup, ensure bowls are oven-safe to avoid cracking.
- Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crunchy texture but can be omitted for a gluten-free version.
- This soup can be prepared a day ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop.
