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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe

4.8 from 107 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a creamy and comforting dish made with tender chicken, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it features sautéed onions and garlic, rich chicken broth, heavy cream, and fresh greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

Instructions

  1. Saute Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and saute for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is no longer pink on the outside and starting to turn golden.
  3. Simmer Soup Base: Add chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried basil to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chicken to cook through completely.
  4. Add Cream and Parmesan: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until melted and soup is creamy.
  5. Add Greens and Adjust Seasoning: If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan from a block instead of pre-grated for smoother melting and better texture.
  • Add Parmesan gradually (about 1/4 cup at a time) on low heat while stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
  • Half-and-half can substitute for heavy cream for a lighter version.
  • Fresh spinach or kale adds nutrition and color but is optional.
  • Equipment needed: Large pot or Dutch oven (4-6 quart capacity).

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