Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days and makes for a satisfying meal that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Ingredients List

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 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)
• Optional: 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (for added nutrition)

Timing

Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Add Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

1. Pour in Broth: Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried basil to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Stir in Cream: Add the heavy cream to the pot and stir to combine.
2. Add Parmesan: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the soup is creamy. If using, stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

1. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
3. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	25g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a creamy, flavorful dish that will warm you up on cold days. Its rich texture and savory ingredients make it a perfect choice for a comforting meal!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it in after sautéing the aromatics.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.