This tasty Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s filled with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a sprinkle of cheesy goodness to make it extra special!
Whenever I make this soup, it feels like a cozy day, even if it’s not raining outside. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so you can enjoy it without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing veggies! If you don’t have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil or butter. Each will change the flavor slightly, but they all work well.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds fantastic flavor. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead. Both options will give you a delicious base.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience! You can also use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Egg Noodles: Classic for chicken noodle soup! If you can’t find them or want a gluten-free option, use rice noodles or any gluten-free pasta instead.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the cheesy depth it brings. If you want a milder taste, use mozzarella or Pecorino cheese instead.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Vegetables?
The key to great flavor here is properly sautéing the veggies. Start by heating the oil in your pot, then add the onions first. They can take the longest to soften.
- Saute onions for about 2-3 minutes until they start to turn translucent.
- Add garlic, carrots, and celery, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes. Stir frequently!
- The goal is to soften the vegetables so that they combine well with the broth.
This step helps release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of your soup!
Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 cups egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté these veggies together until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step brings out their flavors!
2. Add the Broth:
Once your vegetables are tender, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This is the base of your soup and will bring everything together.
3. Season and Simmer:
Now, add the dried basil, dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This will marry all the delicious flavors from the vegetables and seasonings.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Next, stir in your egg noodles (or pasta of choice) and let them cook in the broth until they are tender, which should take about 7-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t get overcooked!
5. Stir in the Chicken and Cheese:
Once the noodles are cooked, add the shredded or diced chicken and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the chicken is warmed through. Yum!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you’d like. The cheese will add some saltiness too, so be careful not to over-salt!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious soup! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you wish. It’s comforting and absolutely delightful!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver. Just add them directly to the pot after you heat the oil, and give them a little more time to cook until they’re tender, probably an extra 2-3 minutes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles, and make sure the chicken broth you choose is labeled gluten-free as well. You’ll have a delicious gluten-free version in no time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Definitely! Sauté the vegetables first and then add everything (including broth, chicken, pasta, and seasonings) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in Parmesan just before serving for a rich, cheesy finish!