Name: The Best Chicken Parmesan Meatball Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 egg, beaten; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 cup pasta (optional); Fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

Chicken Parmesan Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with a rich, hearty tomato-based broth. Juicy, cheesy chicken meatballs simmer in a flavorful tomato soup infused with garlic, basil, and Italian seasoning. Finished with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this soup delivers the best of both worlds—warm, cozy soup and the beloved flavors of Chicken Parmesan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: A warm and satisfying soup perfect for chilly nights.
Classic Italian Flavors: Inspired by Chicken Parmesan, this dish is loaded with garlic, basil, and rich tomato goodness.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is perfect for any home cook.
Great for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy meatballs make this dish a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

Ground chicken
Breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Egg
Garlic
Fresh basil
Italian seasoning
Crushed tomatoes
Chicken broth
Onion
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes
Pasta (optional)
Fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, a beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sear the meatballs until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil and sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Season with salt, black pepper, and additional Italian seasoning to taste.
Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the seared meatballs to the pot, submerging them in the tomato broth.
Cover and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, ensuring the meatballs are cooked through.
If using pasta, add it to the soup and cook until tender.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta alternatives.
Low-Carb: Skip the pasta and serve the soup with extra vegetables.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese substitutes or omit the cheese altogether.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make the meatballs extra tender?

Adding a bit of milk to the meatball mixture and not overmixing the ingredients will ensure tender meatballs.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What’s the best type of pasta to use?

Small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or elbow macaroni works well, but any pasta you have on hand will do.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-searing them?

Absolutely. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes before adding them to the soup.

What’s a good substitute for ground chicken?

Ground turkey or even ground beef would work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving, or cook it al dente within the soup.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, but if you plan to freeze it, leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, but provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would be great too.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, but homemade meatballs add better flavor and texture.

What sides go well with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad make perfect accompaniments.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan Meatball Soup is the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods—savory, cheesy meatballs and a rich, flavorful tomato broth. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that brings warmth to the table, whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

Print