Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for chilly days, it combines sautéed onions and garlic with tender chicken breast simmered in flavorful broth, finished with heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan for a decadent but simple homemade soup.
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
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and begins to turn golden.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and ensure the chicken cooks through fully.
- Incorporate Dairy and Greens: 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 to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup and prevents clumping. If using, add fresh spinach or kale and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block to achieve a smoother melt and better texture compared to pre-grated options.
- Add Parmesan gradually (1/4 cup at a time) on low heat while stirring constantly to avoid clumping.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Fresh spinach or kale is optional but adds extra nutrition and vibrant color to the soup.
- Equipment needed: Large pot or Dutch oven (4-6 quart capacity).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, easy chicken soup recipe, comfort food soup, homemade chicken soup, parmesan cheese soup
