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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe

4.7 from 130 reviews

A rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup featuring tender chicken pieces, sautéed garlic and onions, fresh herbs, and spinach or kale, all simmered in a flavorful chicken broth and finished with Parmesan cheese for a comforting, hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 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

Dairy and Cheese

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

Vegetables and Garnish

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  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 brown.
  3. Add liquids and herbs: Pour in the chicken broth, then add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through completely.
  4. Add cream and cheese: Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until fully melted and the soup has a creamy consistency.
  5. Incorporate greens and season: If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the greens wilt. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream will make the soup lighter but still creamy.
  • Fresh spinach or kale adds color and nutrients but can be omitted if preferred.
  • For a thicker soup, add a slurry of cornstarch and water before adding the cream.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.

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