Welcome, soup lovers! If you’re craving a hearty and quick meal that combines the beloved flavors of Italian cuisine, this 20-Minute Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect option for you. Loaded with tender rotini pasta, savory tomato flavors, and topped with gooey melted cheese, this soup will remind you of a cozy Chicken Parmesan in every bite!
Introduction: Why Try This Chicken Parmesan Soup?
Originating from the classic Italian-American dish, Chicken Parmesan, this soup is a creative spin that brings the rich flavors of Chicken Parm into a comforting bowl of soup. Unlike the traditional version, which can be time-intensive, this recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare. Packed with juicy chicken, Italian herbs, and a tomato-rich broth, this soup has all the same flavors but in a simpler and lighter form. Whether you’re a fan of Chicken Parm or just in the mood for a hearty soup, this dish is a must-try!
Did you know? The beloved Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parmigiana,” originated in the United States, adapting from traditional Italian dishes like eggplant parmigiana. This soup keeps all the best parts but lightens it up for an easy weekday meal!
Ingredients for 20-Minute Chicken Parmesan Soup
Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need:
- 2 cups (190g) uncooked rotini pasta
- ¾ cup (108g) sweet or yellow onion, diced finely
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3-4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) Italian-style diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken stock (Swanson Chicken Stock recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 and ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (230g) shredded rotisserie chicken
- Toppings: red pepper flakes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, garlic bread
Substitutions:
- Gluten-free option: Swap regular rotini for gluten-free pasta.
- Lower sodium: Use low-sodium chicken stock and reduce added salt.
- Vegan option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable stock.
How to Make 20-Minute Chicken Parmesan Soup – Step by Step
Follow these steps to create a delicious Chicken Parmesan Soup:
Step1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously salt it (1 teaspoon salt for every 4 cups of water).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set it aside.
Step2: Sauté the Aromatics
- While the pasta is cooking, finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- Add in the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and continue to sauté for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step3: Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken stock.
- Add in the dried parsley, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Step4: Incorporate the Chicken
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Allow the chicken to heat through for 1-2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step5: Combine and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add a generous spoonful of the cooked pasta.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot with garlic bread on the side.
Helpful Tips for 20-Minute Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Tip 1: For an even quicker prep, use pre-diced onions and minced garlic.
- Tip 2: Use high-quality canned tomatoes to enhance the flavor.
- Tip 3: To add extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Use fresh herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, using fresh basil and oregano can elevate the flavors.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep the pasta slightly firm (al dente) so it doesn’t become mushy in the soup.
- Add cheese gradually: For a perfect melt, add cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Parmesan Soup
Pair this soup with:
- Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp greens complement the heartiness of the soup.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or Merlot to round out the meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this soup provides:
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Carbs: 32g
- Proteins: 22g
- Fats: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin C and A.
Storage and Leftovers for Chicken Parmesan Soup
- To Store: Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave until hot. If needed, add a splash of chicken stock to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Soup? Yes! Leave out the pasta and freeze the soup base. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian? Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.
- What pasta works best in this soup? Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work well as they hold up to the broth.
- Can I use leftover cooked chicken? Absolutely! Any cooked chicken, including baked or grilled, will work.
Related Recipes for Chicken Lovers:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole
: A comforting casserole packed with cornbread and beef flavors.
- Sausage Balls Recipe
: A quick and tasty appetizer made with Red Lobster mix.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this quick and easy 20-Minute Chicken Parmesan Soup. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Let us know how it turns out, and don’t forget to share your personal twists in the comments!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe: Quick & Flavorful Meal
Description
Welcome, soup lovers! If you’re craving a hearty and quick meal that combines the beloved flavors of Italian cuisine, this 20-Minute Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect option for you. Loaded with tender rotini pasta, savory tomato flavors, and topped with gooey melted cheese, this soup will remind you of a cozy Chicken Parmesan in every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups (190g) uncooked rotini pasta
- ¾ cup (108g) sweet or yellow onion, diced finely
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3–4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) Italian-style diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken stock (Swanson Chicken Stock recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 and ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (230g) shredded rotisserie chicken
- Toppings: red pepper flakes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, garlic bread
Substitutions:
- Gluten-free option: Swap regular rotini for gluten-free pasta.
- Lower sodium: Use low-sodium chicken stock and reduce added salt.
- Vegan option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable stock.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously salt it (1 teaspoon salt for every 4 cups of water).
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- While the pasta is cooking, finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- Add in the garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and continue to sauté for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken stock.
- Add in the dried parsley, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together and increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken
- Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Allow the chicken to heat through for 1-2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add a generous spoonful of the cooked pasta.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot with garlic bread on the side.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Tip 1: For an even quicker prep, use pre-diced onions and minced garlic.
- Tip 2: Use high-quality canned tomatoes to enhance the flavor.
- Tip 3: To add extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.
