If you love the rich, cozy flavors of Chicken Parmesan but want all that comfort in a single bowl, Chicken Parmesan Soup is your new dinner hero. Imagine tender bites of chicken, twirls of pasta, a vibrant tomato-infused broth, and a gooey layer of melty cheese—all topped off with the crunch of toasted breadcrumbs. It’s everything we adore about the classic dish, transformed into a fuss-free soup that’s as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for lazy Sunday suppers. Once you try this one-pot wonder, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite!

Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about Chicken Parmesan Soup is how everyday ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each element plays a starring role, bringing brightness, savory depth, or irresistible cheesy goodness to every spoonful.

Olive oil: Start by sautéing with this for a touch of fruity richness and to build your flavor base.
Onion: Diced onion softens in the pot and creates a naturally sweet backbone for the soup.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings punchy, aromatic depth—skip the jarred stuff if you can.
Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color, making each ladleful more lively and inviting.
Crushed tomatoes: Use a good-quality canned variety for the most beautifully robust tomato flavor.
Chicken broth: Forms the soulful base of your soup; homemade or store-bought works, just use low-sodium so you can control the saltiness.
Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and lends wonderful flavor and texture.
Dried basil: This classic Italian herb infuses every bite with warmth and herby aroma.
Dried oregano: A pinch adds the signature flavor behind many Italian favorites, so don’t skip it!
Red pepper flakes (optional): For gentle heat—add more or less depending on your spice preference.
Short pasta: Ditalini, small shells, or penne are all perfect—choose your favorite shape for the perfect bite!
Parmesan cheese: The real, freshly grated stuff melts in for that unmistakable salty, nutty richness.
Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds that melty, stretchy finish everyone loves.
Panko breadcrumbs: Toast in a dry skillet for irresistible crunch, evoking the classic Parm crust.
Salt and pepper: Add to taste so you get the cheesy-tomato flavor just right.
Fresh basil: A final sprinkle wakes up the soup with color and an herbal burst.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start with a large pot over medium heat, drizzle in your olive oil, then add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté everything together, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent and your kitchen smells absolutely divine—about 5 minutes. This simple step builds a flavorful base for everything to come.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth and Chicken

Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring your soup to a gentle simmer so the flavors meld for about 10 minutes. The broth will soon smell just like your favorite Italian restaurant!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add your short pasta straight into the simmering soup. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, and cook until the pasta is perfectly al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes. This way, the pasta absorbs all those cozy, savory flavors and brings heartiness to the Chicken Parmesan Soup.

Step 4: Stir in Parmesan Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. It melts right into the soup, lending a salty richness and a luxurious finish. Taste and adjust your seasoning if needed—sometimes the cheese adds enough saltiness all on its own.

Step 5: Add the Toppings and Serve

Ladle the piping-hot Chicken Parmesan Soup into bowls and let everyone add their own toppings: a handful of shredded mozzarella to melt over the top, a sprinkle of toasted panko breadcrumbs for crunch, and a few fresh basil leaves to make it all pop. This last step brings the magic of classic Chicken Parmesan right into your soup bowl!

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Soup

Garnishes

The best part of Chicken Parmesan Soup just might be the toppings. Pile on shredded mozzarella as soon as you serve so it melts luxuriously into the hot broth, then sprinkle craggy golden panko breadcrumbs for that perfect tribute to the classic crispy Parm crust. Don’t forget a scattering of fresh basil—its color and aroma make the whole bowl sing.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to shine solo, but a loaf of crusty garlic bread on the side makes it a truly unforgettable meal. You could also pair it with a simple green salad dressed in balsamic for a bright, crisp contrast to the rich, cheesy soup. If you’re aiming for full comfort, serve alongside roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant for an Italian-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a dinner or want to make this soup extra special, ladle Chicken Parmesan Soup into oven-safe bowls, sprinkle with mozzarella, and pop under the broiler until it bubbles and browns. Or try serving it in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, edible twist. Mini soup shooters with panko on top also make a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Parmesan Soup stores beautifully. Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about three days, making lunch or easy dinners a breeze. Remember, the pasta will soak up some liquid as it sits and the flavors will get even richer!

Freezing

If you want to freeze this soup, it’s best to do so without the pasta and cheese mixed in. Ladle the cooled brothy soup (with chicken and veggies) into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw, reheat, and add freshly cooked pasta and cheese so everything tastes just-cooked and delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat and warm until steaming. If the pasta has absorbed a lot of the broth, just add a splash more chicken broth or water to loosen it. Right before serving, top with fresh mozzarella and toasted breadcrumbs so every bowl is as incredible as the first time.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Parmesan Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and use gluten-free panko or omit the breadcrumbs entirely. Everything else in the recipe stays just as flavorful and comforting.

What’s the best way to shred chicken for this soup?

Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and shreds beautifully while still staying juicy. If cooking at home, simmer or bake boneless chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through, then use two forks to pull them apart. You want nice, hearty shreds that pick up the broth!

Can I make this Chicken Parmesan Soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Just sauté your veggies first, then add everything (except pasta and cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese right before serving for the best texture.

How do I make the soup creamier?

For an extra luxurious version, stir in half a cup of heavy cream just before adding the Parmesan cheese. It gives the soup a richer texture and mellow body, but keeps all those classic Chicken Parmesan flavors front and center.

Can I add vegetables or greens to the soup?

Yes! Spinach, kale, or even chopped zucchini are wonderful added toward the end of cooking. Sautéed mushrooms or carrots can also sneak in for extra nutrition without overpowering the Italian flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something cozy, boldly flavorful, and downright easy, Chicken Parmesan Soup is the answer. Every bite is pure comfort, and the brilliant twist on a beloved classic never fails to impress. Grab your pot, gather your favorite toppings, and give this one a try—you won’t believe how quickly it becomes your new favorite!