Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to this fan-freaking-tastic Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe. It’s like your favorite chicken parm turned into a warm, hearty soup that your whole family will gobble up. Once you try it, I promise you’ll want to make it on repeat — perfect for those chilly nights or anytime you need a little delicious hug from your kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a special role here. The fresh veggies build a flavorful base, while the chicken and cheeses bring hearty protein and that classic Parmesan tang you know and love. When shopping, I always grab good-quality chicken and fresh Parmesan for the best taste.

• Garlic cloves: Fresh is best here for that punch of flavor you just can’t get from powder.
• Green bell pepper: I finely chop this to melt into the soup without overpowering it.
• White onion: Adds sweetness and depth—make sure it’s finely chopped for even cooking.
• Crushed tomatoes: This canned variety has the perfect tang and texture for soups like this.
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean and tender, it shreds beautifully after slow cooking.
• Chicken stock: I prefer low-sodium so I can control the salt level myself.
• Tomato paste: Concentrated flavor that boosts the richness without watering it down.
• Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend that brings a little Italy into your bowl.
• Kosher salt: Use it thoughtfully; it enhances every ingredient.
• Ground black pepper: Freshly cracked makes the biggest difference!
• Red pepper flakes: Just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
• Uncooked dry penne pasta: I strongly recommend cooking separately for best texture.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that signature savory richness—don’t skimp.
• Unsalted butter (optional): Adds silky richness if you’re feeling indulgent.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: For melting on top—it’s the final perfect touch.
• Fresh basil: Bright and fragrant garnish that lifts the whole dish.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it a bit to suit different tastes and occasions. Don’t be afraid to tailor it to your style—you’ll find it’s forgiving and easy to make your own.

• Skinny version: I’ve swapped the butter for a splash of olive oil and still get that creamy feel without extra calories.
• Spicy twist: Adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce kicks it up for those who love some heat.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta, and make sure your broth is GF, and you’re good to go.
• Vegetable booster: Sometimes I toss in chopped zucchini or mushrooms, which soak up all those yummy flavors beautifully.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base

Start by tossing your minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and onion into your slow cooker. The fresh veggies give such a lovely foundation to this soup. I love how slow cooking softens them perfectly, letting their sweetness shine through without any harsh edges. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken, chicken stock, tomato paste, and the seasonings (Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes). Give it a good stir so everything melds together.

Step 2: Slow Cook for Deep Flavor

Cover and set your slow cooker on low for about 7 1/2 hours or high for 3 1/2 hours. This slow simmering is where the magic happens — the chicken becomes so tender it practically falls apart, and the flavors layer beautifully. I usually set it in the morning and come back to a kitchen smelling like a trattoria.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta Separately

When the slow cooker is almost done, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your penne pasta until it’s just al dente — meaning it still has a little bite. Cooking it separately helps keep it from getting mushy, especially if you’re planning leftovers. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Shred and Combine

Transfer the chicken breast to a cutting board and shred it using two forks; it should be delicate and fall apart easily. Add the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, grated Parmesan, and optional butter back into the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to combine — this part always gets me excited because the soup starts coming together in all its cheesy glory.

Step 5: Serve with a Melty Finish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh chopped basil. The mozzarella melts right into the hot soup, adding that gooey, irresistible finish I absolutely love. Basil brightens everything up with just a hint of freshness.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I always top this soup with plenty of shredded mozzarella—it’s the melty, cheesy finish that reminds me of my favorite chicken parm slices. Fresh basil is a must for that pop of color and brightness. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and even a drizzle of good olive oil if I’m feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or a crusty baguette for dipping. Garlic bread is a classic move for soaking up every last delicious drop. I’ve even served it alongside roasted veggies for a fuller meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love serving the soup in mini bread bowls—kids especially think it’s fun to eat. You could also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or drizzle a balsamic glaze on top for a restaurant-worthy look and flavor twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the pasta and soup together after mixing, so the flavors really meld overnight. You’ll find the texture is even better the next day!

Freezing

This soup freezes well but I recommend freezing before adding pasta. Freeze the soup base in portion-sized containers, then cook fresh pasta when you reheat. It keeps the texture from turning soggy.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up. Add cooked pasta and cheese last to keep them fresh and melty.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe brings the classic flavors I grew up loving right into a cozy bowl of soup. It’s the kind of recipe that makes me smile while stirring the pot and feel warm inside when everyone’s digging in. Give it a try—I know you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful, just like my family and I have been for years!

Print