Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe

If you have been searching for a soul-warming, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of classic Italian cuisine with the ease of a hearty soup, you have to try this Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup. This recipe takes all the beloved elements of Chicken Parmesan—the tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, gooey Parmesan cheese—and reimagines them in a silky, luscious broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough to share with guests. Every spoonful brings creamy, cheesy goodness with a touch of spice, making this soup an absolute favorite year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step in creating a bowl of magic. Each component plays its role in building the vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and satisfying heartiness of our soup. From the savory chicken stock to the rich Parmesan cheese, every ingredient is crucial for that perfect balance.

• 1 jar Bertolli® Pasta sauce: This adds a flavorful, herb-infused tomato base that’s ready to enrich the soup instantly.
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a touch of fruity richness to the dish.
• 1 onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth as it gently cooks down.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aroma and a punch of savory complexity.
• 3-4 chicken breasts (cubed): The heart of the soup—tender, protein-packed morsels that soak up all the flavors.
• 32 ounces chicken stock: Creates a comforting, savory broth as the soup’s base.
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes: Adds freshness and acidity that brighten the creamy elements.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle warmth and gentle kick.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: This is where the soup gets its luscious, velvety texture.
• 12 ounces pasta (cooked al dente): Adds satisfying chewiness and bulk to the soup.
• 8-ounce package Parmesan cheese for serving: The crowning glory that adds salty, nutty richness with every sprinkle.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until fragrant and translucent. This process builds the flavor foundation, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Next, add the cubed chicken breasts and cook until they’re no longer pink on the outside. This ensures the chicken is nicely seared, which adds texture and locks in the juices.

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes, Sauce, and Stock

Once the chicken is ready, pour in the diced tomatoes, your jar of pasta sauce, and the chicken stock. Stir in the red pepper flakes, which introduce a gentle heat that balances the richness of the dish. Bring everything to a simmer, then let it gently bubble away for about 15 minutes. This melds the flavors together beautifully and tenderizes the chicken even further.

Step 3: Add Cream and Pasta

Now for the creamy magic—stir in the heavy cream, which transforms the broth into a silky, indulgent soup. Fold in your cooked pasta and warm everything through, allowing each bite to meld the comforting textures of chicken, tomato, and cheese. This step turns the soup into a filling meal packed with heartiness and flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cooker Option for Hands-Off Cooking

If you prefer a more set-it-and-forget-it approach, place all the ingredients except the cream and pasta into your crock pot. Cook on low for six hours, which tenderizes the chicken perfectly and deepens the flavors. Then add uncooked pasta, switch the crock pot to high, and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the pasta is tender yet firm. Finish by stirring in the cream for that signature silky texture.

Step 5: Serve with Parmesan Cheese

Before serving, generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each bowl. The cheese melts invitingly into the hot soup, adding that classic salty tang and luscious finish that makes this Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup so irresistible.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Garnishes

The best way to elevate your soup is with fresh garnishes that add texture and visual appeal. Try a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and herbal brightness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top is always a winning addition, as is a crack of freshly ground black pepper for a little bite.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, pair it with crusty garlic bread or a simple mixed green salad tossed with a bright vinaigrette. The crisp greens contrast beautifully with the creamy soup, and the bread is perfect for dunking into every last spoonful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion or when serving guests, consider presenting the Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup in individual bread bowls or rustic mugs. Drizzle a little olive oil and scatter some fresh herbs over the top before serving to make it feel cozy yet sophisticated. You can also serve it alongside a small plate of antipasto for an Italian-inspired meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the flavors deepen and meld beautifully. Just be mindful that the pasta may soak up more broth, so you might want to add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but for best texture, omit the pasta if you plan to freeze it. Freeze the soup base in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently and add freshly cooked pasta before serving to maintain that perfect al dente bite.

Reheating

Reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warm throughout. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen it up. Be careful not to boil once the cream is added to keep the texture smooth and silky.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in this soup?

Absolutely! While small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or rotini work best because they hold up well in soup, feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so it stays perfectly al dente.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup?

You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with hearty mushrooms or a plant-based chicken alternative and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. The creamy, cheesy elements remain just as satisfying!

How spicy is this soup with the red pepper flakes?

This soup has a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount to your preference or omit it completely if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using pre-cooked chicken can save time. Just add it toward the end of the cooking process to heat through without overcooking, then proceed with adding the cream and pasta.

What’s the best way to grate Parmesan for this soup?

Freshly grated Parmesan from a block provides the best flavor and texture. Use a microplane or fine grater for a fluffy topping that melts easily into the soup. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan for a more authentic taste.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup enough if you want an easy-to-make, deeply comforting meal that feels both homey and a little luxurious. It’s one of those dishes that brings smiles around the table and warms you from the inside out. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to fall in love with this creamy, cheesy, wonderfully satisfying soup!

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