This warm and cozy Parmesan chicken noodle soup is just what you need on a chilly day. Packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s so tasty!
You’ll love how the cheesy flavor brightens up every spoonful. When I make this, I often sneak in extra cheese—because who can resist more Parmesan? 😋
It’s easy to whip up, too! Just toss everything in one pot, let it simmer, and enjoy a bowl of comfort. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but you can use butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Coconut oil is another alternative, providing a subtle sweetness.
Chicken Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works fine as a substitute, or you can use water and add extra spices for flavor.
Chicken: For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is fantastic. You can shred it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.
Pasta: Egg noodles are traditional for chicken noodle soup, but feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables for Soup?
Sautéing vegetables is key to building the flavor base for your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated pot on medium heat. Let the olive oil get hot but not smoking.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Stir them around for 5 minutes until they start to soften, which helps release their sugars.
- When adding garlic, cook it for just about a minute to avoid burning, as burned garlic can taste bitter.
These steps will create a delicious foundation for your Parmesan chicken noodle soup!
Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups egg noodles or rotini pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious Parmesan chicken noodle soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for those busy days when you want something warm and comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This will help develop the flavor of your soup.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This will give your soup a delicious aroma!
3. Bring in the Broth and Herbs:
Pour in the chicken broth, and add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Once boiling, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Add the Pasta:
Stir in the egg noodles or rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions (usually about 7-8 minutes) until the noodles are tender and ready to enjoy.
6. Stir in the Parmesan:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and well combined. This gives your soup that creamy, cheesy flavor that everyone loves!
7. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It’s time to make it perfect!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot, and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade Parmesan chicken noodle soup!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed first! For quicker cooking, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Just cut the thawed chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from getting mushy, consider adding the pasta just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the soup, leave out the pasta and store it separately. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and cook fresh pasta to add in just before serving.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For added depth of flavor, consider including a bay leaf while simmering the soup or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also enhance the taste when serving. Enjoy experimenting!
