Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between craving the gooey, comforting richness of chicken parmesan and the cozy embrace of a hearty bowl of soup, rejoice: this Easy Chicken Parm Soup is the best of both worlds! Imagine all the beloved flavors of classic chicken parm — tender chicken, melted cheese, robust tomato, and aromatic Italian seasoning — but in a slurpable, weeknight-friendly format. It’s a dish that’s as soul-warming as it is simple, and bound to impress everyone sitting at your table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The true magic of this recipe is how a handful of kitchen staples, thoughtfully chosen, come together to create something extraordinary. Every ingredient plays a starring role, from adding bold flavor to giving that craveable, cheesy finish.

• Olive oil: Use this to sauté the aromatics and build a rich, savory base for your soup.
• Onion: Diced small so it melts into the soup, bringing a gentle sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives that unmistakable Italian flair — go bold and use extra if you love it!
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a tiny kick of heat to offset the creamy cheeses.
• Crushed tomatoes: Provide a deeply flavorful, slightly tangy tomato backbone for the soup.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Makes the soup hearty without overwhelming the other flavors; you control the saltiness.
• Italian seasoning: The classic herb mix that transports you straight to your favorite trattoria.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple, essential, and key to balancing every bite.
• Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is fantastic here — it’s tender, juicy, and a huge time-saver.
• Small pasta (like ditalini or elbow): These bite-sized shapes soak up all the flavor and make each spoonful extra satisfying.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a nutty, salty, and creamy note that’s utterly irresistible.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into pools of gooey goodness on top and in the bowl.
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of green brightens the whole dish and adds a fresh finish.
• Toasted garlic bread or croutons (for serving): Perfect for dunking or adding crunch — don’t skip it!

How to Make Easy Chicken Parm Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, and let it cook gently until it’s soft and fragrant — about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the red pepper flakes. Let those bloom for just a minute. The kitchen will be smelling incredible by now!

Step 2: Simmer the Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any bits that stuck to the bottom. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a lively boil, letting the flavors start to meld. This savory, herby broth is the foundation of your Easy Chicken Parm Soup.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Now stir in your chosen small pasta. Let it simmer, uncovered, until perfectly al dente (about 8–10 minutes, but check your package instructions to be sure). Keep an eye on the pot — you want the pasta plump but not mushy, soaking up just enough of that tomatoey broth.

Step 4: Stir in Chicken and Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low and add your cooked shredded chicken, along with the grated Parmesan and half the mozzarella. Stir until everything is warmed through and the cheese melts into the soup, making it luxuriously creamy and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Top Generously

Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Scatter the remaining mozzarella on top, then sprinkle over a little chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. For the ultimate Easy Chicken Parm Soup experience, don’t forget a side of toasted garlic bread or some extra crunchy croutons for dunking!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Parm Soup

Garnishes

A finishing shower of chopped basil or parsley adds a burst of color and a peppery note that makes each bowl look (and taste) extra special. For more decadence, pop the bowls under the broiler for a minute to melt the mozzarella into a bubbly, golden layer — just like classic chicken parm.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to be a full meal, but nothing beats serving it alongside crispy garlic bread, a simple green salad, or even a plate of roasted veggies. The bright, fresh sides balance the satisfying richness of this Easy Chicken Parm Soup beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Go bistro-style by ladling the soup into oven-safe crocks, topping with mozzarella, and broiling until bubbly. Or serve in hollowed-out bread bowls for a dramatic, edible presentation. You can even offer a “toppings bar” with extra cheese, fresh herbs, and croutons so everyone can customize their own bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Chicken Parm Soup keeps well for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge. As the soup sits, the flavors meld and deepen — it’s even better on day two! Just note that the pasta might absorb more liquid, so the texture may thicken a bit.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this soup, it’s best to do so before adding the pasta and cheeses for optimal texture. Let the tomato-chicken broth cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw, bring to a gentle simmer, add cooked pasta and cheese, and enjoy a freshly finished bowl.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup looks too thick (thanks to the thirsty pasta), add a splash more broth or water to loosen it up. Top with fresh mozzarella and herbs just before serving to revive that just-made magic.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken in Easy Chicken Parm Soup?

For best results, use cooked, shredded chicken to keep this recipe quick and ensure tender texture. If you have uncooked chicken breasts, simply simmer them in the broth before adding the pasta, then shred and return to the pot.

What types of pasta work best in this soup?

Short, sturdy shapes like ditalini, elbows, or small shells are ideal, as they capture plenty of broth and cheese. If you use a larger or delicate pasta, adjust your cooking time so it doesn’t overcook.

Can this soup be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free small pasta, and double-check your broth and cheese labels to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

How can I add more veggies to Easy Chicken Parm Soup?

Toss in a few handfuls of baby spinach, chopped zucchini, or even diced bell pepper when you add the chicken. The vegetables will simmer quickly and add even more nutrition and color to the bowl.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Definitely! The mellow tomato broth, cheesy goodness, and fun pasta shapes make Easy Chicken Parm Soup a hit with kids. You can always adjust the red pepper flakes and herbs to match your family’s taste buds.

Final Thoughts

Homemade doesn’t have to be hard — and this Easy Chicken Parm Soup is living proof. With bold flavor, melty cheese, and less than 40 minutes from stovetop to table, it belongs in every comfort food lover’s rotation. If you’re ready for a new family favorite, give this one a try and watch everyone come back for seconds!

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