This cozy Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup is just what you need on a chilly day! It’s packed with tender chicken, noodles, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a creamy touch.
I’m always amazed at how comforting a warm bowl can be. Perfect for slurping while you binge-watch your favorite shows. Who doesn’t love a bit of cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing vegetables. If you’re out, you can use vegetable oil or even butter for a richer flavor. I love the taste of olive oil, especially for soups!
Chicken Broth: You can use homemade broth for the best flavor, but store-bought works well too. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, many brands offer reduced-sodium versions. Alternatively, vegetable broth makes a nice substitute.
Egg Noodles: These are my go-to for this soup, but if you can’t find them, any pasta shape works. Try rotini or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on the noodle type.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the soup the best flavor, but you can use pre-grated cheese in a pinch. For a dairy-free version, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables well is key to building flavor in your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the oil in a pot over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery first. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Finish by adding garlic for the last minute to avoid burning. This helps keep the garlic’s flavor bright.
Using fresh vegetables makes a big difference. A mix of colors not only looks nice but also adds different flavors!
Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups egg noodles or pasta shells
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 20-25 minutes to cook, making it ready in around 35 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This will bring out a wonderful aroma!
2. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Watching it come to a boil gives you a great sense of anticipation! 😊
3. Cook the Noodles:
Once boiling, add the egg noodles, dried thyme, and dried basil. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until they are al dente (cooked but with a slight bite).
4. Incorporate the Chicken:
Stir in the cooked chicken and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes. This step brings all the flavors together.
5. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low. Now, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the soup becomes creamy. You’ll love the cheesy aroma!
6. Season and Add Fresh Herbs:
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley on top. It’s lovely paired with some crusty bread on the side for dipping.
This rich and comforting Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup offers tender chicken, hearty noodles, sweet vegetables, and cheesy goodness in every spoonful. Ideal for warming you up on any cold day!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option. Just shred or chop it up and add it to the soup in step 4. This can save you time and adds great flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can substitute any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even a whole grain option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. However, if you’re preparing it to freeze, consider adding the noodles when reheating, as they can become mushy when frozen.
