Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and flavorful herbs in a luscious broth. Perfect for warming up on chilly days, it features sautéed onions and garlic, tender chicken pieces, and optional greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition. The soup is finished with a velvety blend of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan for a decadent taste and silky texture.
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 until the onion is softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- 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 add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken cooks completely through.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream gradually. Add grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Add Greens (Optional): If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block instead of pre-grated cheese for better melting and a smoother texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Adding fresh greens like spinach or kale enhances the nutrition and color of the soup.
- To make the soup thicker, you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry before adding the cream.
- 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, comfort food soup, Parmesan chicken soup recipe
