Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or egg noodles)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 2: Add the chicken breasts and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Step 3: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks, then return the shredded chicken back into the simmering broth.
- Step 4: Increase the heat slightly and add the small pasta to the soup. Cook according to package directions (typically 6-8 minutes) until the pasta is tender and al dente.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving immediately.
Notes
- If storing leftovers beyond 24 hours, the pasta may absorb much of the liquid; consider cooking ditalini or egg noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls when ready to serve.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally; if the creamy texture breaks while simmering, whisk in a tablespoon of extra heavy cream or broth to bring it back together.
- Complete this rich soup by serving it immediately with a final dusting of fresh Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, and a side of warm, crusty sourdough bread perfect for dipping.
- For the brightest, creamiest flavor, ensure you use freshly grated Parmesan, as the packaged pre-grated cheese often includes additives that can make your luxurious soup slightly grainy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American