Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe

Cozy Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

This creamy chicken Parmesan pasta soup brings comfort right to your kitchen with its rich, hearty essence.

Warm, velvety textures mingle perfectly with savory undertones that promise pure satisfaction.

Imagine a bowl filled with smooth, delectable flavors that transport you to an Italian countryside moment.

Traditional ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a sophisticated yet approachable dish anyone can master.

Robust seasonings dance through each spoonful, promising a delightful culinary experience that feels both familiar and exciting.

Each ingredient carefully contributes its unique character to this delightful meal.

Such a recipe will definitely make your taste buds sing with pure joy.

FAQs for Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup

  • Can I use different types of pasta for this soup?

Yes! While the recipe suggests a specific pasta, you can easily swap it with other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells that hold sauce well.

  • How can I make this soup lighter or healthier?

Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, use skinless chicken breast, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost nutritional value.

  • Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just keep the pasta separate and add when reheating to prevent soggy noodles. Store in an airtight container.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Sure! Substitute chicken with plant-based chicken alternatives, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and follow the same cooking method for a delicious vegetarian version.

Why Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup Is Comfort in a Bowl

  • This soup combines the beloved flavors of chicken parmesan with a hearty pasta base, creating a warm, satisfying meal that hugs your taste buds with every spoonful.
  • Whipped up in under 45 minutes, this one-pot recipe saves time and dishes while delivering restaurant-quality flavor that will impress the entire family.
  • Experience a delightful contrast between the creamy, rich soup base, tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and the crispy panko breadcrumb topping that adds an exciting crunch to each bite.
  • Easily adaptable for spice lovers or mild palates by adjusting red pepper flakes, and versatile enough to use different types of pasta or swap proteins for a personalized dinner experience.

Everything You Need for Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Fillets or Thighs: Tender meat that provides the main protein for the soup, choose boneless for easier shredding.
  • Chicken Broth: Rich liquid base that adds deep flavor and moisture to the soup.
Soup Vegetables:
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic flavor-building trio that creates a robust soup foundation, fresh vegetables work best.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth and warmth to the overall soup flavor.
Liquid and Sauce Components:
  • Marinara Sauce: Adds tomato richness and Italian-inspired flavor to the soup.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and creamy texture, full-fat version recommended for best results.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides liquid base and enhances overall soup flavor.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty flavor and helps thicken the soup.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Provides melty, stretchy topping with mild cheese flavor.
Pasta and Bread Components:
  • Pasta: Adds hearty substance to the soup, choose short pasta like shells or rotini.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates crunchy topping for textural contrast.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Italian Seasoning: Blend of dried herbs that adds traditional Italian flavor.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient for adding mild heat.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall soup flavor.
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley: Provides fresh, bright garnish with aromatic herb notes.

How to Whip Up Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

  • Fill a medium pot with water
  • Add salt to the water
  • Bring water to a rolling boil
  • Drop pasta into boiling water
  • Cook according to package directions until perfectly tender
  • Drain pasta and set aside in a separate bowl

Step 2: Create Soup Foundation

  • Grab a large cooking pot
  • Pour olive oil into the pot
  • Heat oil over medium temperature
  • Add chopped onions
  • Add diced carrots
  • Add sliced celery
  • Sauté vegetables until they soften (5-7 minutes)
  • Toss minced garlic into the pot
  • Stir and cook for another minute

Step 3: Prepare Chicken Broth

  • Place chicken fillets or thighs into the pot
  • Pour chicken broth
  • Add marinara sauce
  • Sprinkle Italian seasoning
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Season with salt and pepper
  • Bring mixture to a boil
  • Reduce heat to low
  • Simmer for 20 minutes until chicken cooks completely

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

  • Remove chicken from soup
  • Use two forks to pull chicken apart
  • Return shredded chicken to pot

Step 5: Create Creamy Texture

  • Pour heavy cream into soup
  • Add grated Parmesan cheese
  • Stir continuously
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes
  • Allow cheese to melt
  • Let soup thicken slightly

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Soup

  • Add cooked pasta to soup
  • Gently mix ingredients
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  • Ladle soup into serving bowls
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top
  • Add toasted panko breadcrumbs
  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley
  • Serve immediately while hot

Tips for Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup

  • Boost Flavor Depth: Toast Italian seasoning in olive oil before adding vegetables to enhance the aromatic profile and release deeper flavor notes.
  • Prevent Pasta Clumping: Rinse cooked pasta with cold water and toss with a tiny bit of olive oil to keep noodles separated and prevent sticking when added to the soup.
  • Create Tender Chicken: Slice chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and maximize tenderness throughout the soup.
  • Optimize Cheese Melting: Grate Parmesan cheese freshly and add gradually while stirring continuously to create smooth, seamless integration without lumps.
  • Control Soup Consistency: Keep extra chicken broth nearby to adjust thickness if soup becomes too dense, allowing you to customize the perfect texture.

Keeping Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Separate Pasta: Keep pasta separate from the soup to prevent soggy noodles. Store them in different containers.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm the soup slowly in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent thickening. Stir in reserved pasta just before serving to maintain its texture.

What to Pair with Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup

  • Dive into Italian Bread Companionship: Serve this creamy chicken parmesan pasta soup alongside crusty garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the rich, cheesy broth and add a delightful crunch.
  • Complement with Crisp White Wine: Pair the soup with a chilled glass of pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc, which cuts through the creamy texture and enhances the Italian herb flavors.
  • Create a Fresh Side Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the soup's richness and provide a zesty, refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate.
  • Sprinkle Herbal Garnish Magic: Top the soup with fresh basil or parsley to add a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the overall flavor profile and brings a pop of color to the dish.

Fun Additions to Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup

  • Mediterranean Fusion: Replace marinara with sun-dried tomato sauce, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Swap Italian seasoning for chili powder, cumin, and add roasted corn kernels. Top with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Vegetarian Herb Garden: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower or white beans. Increase vegetable broth, add fresh thyme and rosemary for an earthy, plant-based alternative that maintains the creamy texture.
  • Lean Green Version: Use shredded rotisserie chicken breast, incorporate spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. Reduce heavy cream by half and replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed option.
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Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup Recipe


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4.9 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Indulgent Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta Soup brings Italian comfort to your table with a delightful twist on classic flavors. Cheesy, hearty, and rich, this soup delivers a satisfying meal that warms souls and delights senses.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken fillets or thighs

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 4 cups (946 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon (2.5 ml) crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta and Cheese:

  • 1.5 cups (360 ml) uncooked small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or elbow macaroni)
  • 0.5 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish:

  • 0.5 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, toasted
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Initiate the pasta preparation by boiling salted water in a medium pot. Cook pasta until it reaches a tender yet firm texture, then drain and reserve for later incorporation.
  2. Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery until they become soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic flavors.
  3. Introduce minced garlic to the vegetable mixture, allowing it to bloom and release its pungent essence for approximately one minute.
  4. Carefully place whole chicken fillets into the pot, followed by chicken broth and marinara sauce. Season with Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Bring the liquid to a vigorous boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the chicken to cook thoroughly, transforming into tender, easily shredded meat.
  6. Extract the cooked chicken from the broth. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into succulent, bite-sized shreds. Return the shredded chicken to the simmering liquid.
  7. Enrich the soup with heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously, allowing the ingredients to meld and create a luxurious, creamy consistency.
  8. Gently fold the reserved pasta into the soup, ensuring each strand is coated with the flavorful broth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. Serve the soup in warm bowls, generously topping with melted mozzarella cheese and crispy toasted panko breadcrumbs for textural contrast.
  10. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley, presenting a vibrant and comforting dish ready to be enjoyed immediately.

Notes

  • Master this comforting soup in under 45 minutes with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Choose boneless chicken thighs or breasts for tender, easily shreddable meat that absorbs rich flavors perfectly.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days, noting pasta might absorb more liquid when refrigerated.
  • Elevate the dish with homemade marinara or high-quality store-bought sauce for deeper, more complex taste profiles.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version without compromising creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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