Easy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe to Warm You
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this easy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect answer. Cozy up with this easy Chicken Parmesan Soup featuring rich tomato, plant-based cheese, and savory herbs for a comforting meal in minutes. It delivers all the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a comforting, spoonable form that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting treat, this recipe brings together wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors to warm your soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a bowl: Rich tomato broth with herbs mimics the familiar, beloved Chicken Parmesan taste in a delightful soup form.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy days when you crave something homemade.
- Nutritious and hearty: Loaded with tender chicken, veggies, and plant-based cheese to fill you up with nourishing goodness.
- Versatile and adaptable: Customize with your favorite herbs or veggies to suit your taste and pantry.
- Family-friendly: A meal that pleases kids and adults alike, bringing everyone together around one warm bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Parmesan Soup plays a key role to balance flavor, texture, and nutrition, making the soup both hearty and vibrant. From tender chicken pieces to the punch of herbs and the creaminess of plant-based cheese, every element enhances the experience.
- Chicken breast (diced): Provides lean protein and tender bites throughout the soup.
- Olive oil (natural): Used to sauté vegetables and add richness to the base.
- Onion (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth and flavor.
- Carrots (sliced): Bring subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery (sliced): Adds crunch and classic soup flavor.
- Canned crushed tomatoes (natural): Forms the rich and tangy tomato base that defines the recipe.
- Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Boosts savory umami for depth.
- Chicken broth: A flavorful liquid to tie all ingredients together.
- Apple cider vinegar (natural): Adds brightness to balance the acidity.
- Dried oregano and basil (natural): Classic aromatic herbs for that signature Italian flair.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, enhancing all flavors.
- Plant-based shredded cheese: Melts beautifully to enrich the soup with creamy notes.
- Pasta (small shapes like orzo or ditalini): Adds comforting substance and texture.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish at serving.
Variations for Chicken Parmesan Soup
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to tweak according to what you love or have on hand. Here are some fun ways to make it your own, whether you want extra veggies, different herbs, or a creamier touch.
- Vegetable boost: Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrient-rich veggies.
- Spicy kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for gentle heat.
- Herb swap: Fresh thyme or rosemary work beautifully for a unique herbal twist.
- Grain alternative: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of pasta for a gluten-free or heartier option.
- Creamy version: Stir in some plant-based cream or cashew cream for extra richness.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Soup
Step 1: Prepare your ingredients
Gather and chop the chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and quick.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Add the chicken
Throw in the diced chicken breast and cook until it’s white and slightly browned, stirring regularly so it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Build the soup base
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all those savory and tangy flavors.
Step 5: Simmer and cook pasta
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then add your choice of pasta. Let it cook until tender (usually 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Finish with plant-based cheese
Sprinkle the plant-based shredded cheese into the hot soup, stirring until it melts into a creamy, comforting texture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Remove the pot from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley. Ladle into bowls and prepare for the feast!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Use quality chicken broth: It makes a big difference in flavor, so pick a rich and well-seasoned broth.
- Don’t skip the vinegar: A splash brightens the tomato base and balances the rich elements.
- Prep veggies uniformly: Chop all ingredients to similar sizes for even cooking and great texture.
- Add pasta last: To keep pasta from getting mushy, cook it directly in the soup just before serving.
- Fresh herbs matter: Add fresh parsley or basil at the end for the brightest flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness, while a light drizzle of plant-based cheese sauce enhances creaminess and flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty artisan bread or a light side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup in rustic bread bowls or alongside garlic-toasted baguette slices topped with melted plant-based cheese, turning your meal into a charming dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Chicken Parmesan Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making the leftovers even better.
Freezing
The soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave out the pasta when freezing, and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it to the right consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms, beans, or plant-based protein for a hearty vegetarian option.
What kind of pasta works best?
Small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even small shells work perfectly because they cook quickly and blend naturally into the soup’s texture.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover cooked chicken, add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through without drying out.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the base recipe is mild but well-seasoned; feel free to add red pepper flakes or your favorite spicy seasoning if you prefer some heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh ripe tomatoes will work just simmer them down a bit longer to achieve a strong tomato flavor and rich consistency.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about spooning up a bowl of this easy Chicken Parmesan Soup. It’s a cheerful, comforting dish that brings the essence of a classic favorite into a cozy soup that’s perfect any day you need a little extra comfort. Give it a try, customize it to your liking, and enjoy a delicious, flavor-packed meal everyone will adore.
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Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting and hearty meal featuring tender chicken, rich tomato broth, plant-based shredded cheese, and aromatic herbs. Ready in under 40 minutes, it blends the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a warm, spoonable soup perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (natural)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (natural)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (natural)
- 1 tsp dried basil (natural)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup plant-based shredded cheese
- 3/4 cup small pasta (orzo or ditalini)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Gather and chop the chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and quick.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Add the chicken: Throw in the diced chicken breast and cook until it’s white and slightly browned, stirring regularly so it cooks evenly.
- Build the soup base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all those savory and tangy flavors.
- Simmer and cook pasta: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then add your choice of pasta. Let it cook until tender (usually 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Finish with plant-based cheese: Sprinkle the plant-based shredded cheese into the hot soup, stirring until it melts into a creamy, comforting texture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Use quality chicken broth for best flavor.
- Do not skip the apple cider vinegar to brighten the tomato base.
- Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking and texture.
- Add pasta last to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil added at the end enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Chicken Parmesan Soup, comfort soup, plant-based cheese, quick chicken soup, Italian soup
