This cozy Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup is packed with tender chicken, tasty noodles, and a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how this soup is super easy to make! Just simmer everything together, and you have a comforting meal ready in no time. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I like using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you’re out, canola or vegetable oil works fine too, but they may lack a bit of the richness.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best if you have it, but store-bought is a great alternative. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter version, just keep in mind the taste will shift.
Egg Noodles: The classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta would work just as well. Just adjust cooking time according to the package.
Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor, fresh grated Parmesan is ideal. If you don’t have any, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be a nice option for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure My Noodles Don’t Get Mushy?
Cooking noodles perfectly can be tricky! To avoid mushy noodles, follow these tips:
- Cook noodles separately in salted water, then add them to the soup at the end for just a minute.
- If you prefer them cooked in the soup, watch the timer closely. Once they’re al dente, remove the pot from heat to stop further cooking.
- Adding the noodles last allows you to control their texture better and ensures they’re just right!
How to Make Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles or curly pasta of choice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something warm and filling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Your Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Cook these veggies until they’re softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. This creates a delicious base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
3. Bring in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a boil. The bubbling broth will help meld all those wonderful flavors together.
4. Mix in the Chicken and Seasoning:
Next, add the cubed cooked chicken, dried Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and develop.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until they’re nice and tender. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook!
6. Final Touches:
Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped parsley. This will add a creamy texture and fresh kick to your soup!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. This step is key to making sure your soup is perfectly flavorful.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley. If you’d like, pair it with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of Parmesan Chicken Noodle Soup!
This hearty and cheesy soup is perfect for warming up and satisfying your appetite on a chilly day!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option. Just shred or cube the chicken and add it straight to the soup; it will enhance the flavor and save you time!
What If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No worries! You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove; you might want to add a splash of broth to loosen it up as the noodles can absorb some of the liquid.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and swap out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for protein. It’ll still be delicious and hearty!
