Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal. Packed with tender chicken, savory garlic, and cheesy Parmesan, it’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. This soup makes a satisfying lunch or dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 2: Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and begins to turn golden.
- Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld and the chicken cook through completely.
- Step 4: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Step 5: If desired, stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 6: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup without sacrificing creaminess.
- Add cooked pasta or rice to make the soup more filling.
- Swap dried herbs for fresh thyme and basil if you have them on hand for a brighter flavor.
- For extra garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the soup.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent curdling. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months, but it’s best to add cream and cheese after thawing to maintain texture and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add more moisture and flavor. Just adjust cooking time if needed until fully cooked.
Is this soup suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, this soup is naturally low-carb, especially if you skip optional additions like pasta or rice. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Soup Recipe
A comforting and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful broth enriched with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, perfect for a cozy meal any day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Cook chicken pieces: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside and starts to turn golden.
- Add broth and herbs: Pour in the chicken broth, then add dried thyme and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors and cook the chicken thoroughly.
- Incorporate cream and cheese: Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
- Add greens and finish: If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Fresh spinach or kale can be omitted or substituted with your favorite leafy greens.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smoother melting.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent cream from curdling.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Soup, creamy chicken soup, comforting soup, homemade chicken soup, easy dinner recipe

