If you’re craving an ultra-comforting bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder. This one-pot wonder blends juicy chicken, tender pasta shells, and swoon-worthy layers of garlic and Parmesan into a thick, velvety chowder that tastes like a cozy hug. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to wow friends and family, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder makes every spoonful special—just the thing to upgrade soup night into something extraordinary.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe has a simple but important job—each one helps craft the rich flavor, creamy texture, or beautiful color in your bowl. Choose fresh and good-quality ingredients, and you’ll have Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder that’s as memorable as it is easy to make!

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a depth of flavor and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Offering lean, tender meat that soaks up the seasoning and stays juicy in the chowder.
Kosher salt: Brightens all the flavors and keeps everything balanced.
Italian seasoning: Brings an herby, aromatic note that makes the chowder unmistakably cozy.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle, peppery kick to every bite.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For just the right hint of heat—use more or less to suit your taste.
Medium yellow onion: Sautéed until soft for a subtle sweetness that forms the soup’s savory backbone.
Minced garlic: The star of the show, infusing every spoonful with that irresistible garlicky aroma.
Chicken broth: Provides a rich and savory base, making the chowder ultra-flavorful.
Heavy cream: Responsible for the silky, luscious texture that makes this soup stand out.
Whole milk: Lightens the creaminess just enough to keep the chowder from feeling too heavy.
Small shell pasta: These tiny pasta shells hold the cheesy broth like little cups, turning every bite into a treat.
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: A must for that nutty, salty cheese flavor—always grate fresh Parmesan for the best melting and taste.
Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts straight into the chowder for bonus gooeyness and creaminess.
Fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of color and freshness for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder

Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken

Start by dicing your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, then toss them in a bowl with the kosher salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Give it all a good mix so each piece is perfectly coated. This quick marinade infuses the chicken with flavor before it even hits the pot, making every bite juicy and deeply seasoned.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned chicken, spreading it out so it browns nicely. Stir occasionally for 3-4 minutes until just lightly golden on the outside—it’s okay if it’s not fully cooked because it will finish simmering in the chowder. Scoop it out with a slotted spoon and set it aside; you’ll add it back soon!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot (don’t wipe it clean—that’s flavorful fond!), toss in your diced onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. This is where the base of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder starts to smell irresistible and you know magic is happening.

Step 4: Build the Broth

Pour in your chicken broth slowly, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot. Whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk, blending until everything’s smooth. This combination of broth, cream, and milk is what sets the chowder apart—a perfect balance of richness and lift.

Step 5: Simmer with Pasta and Chicken

Add your uncooked small shell pasta and the partially cooked chicken back to the pot. Bring it all to a gentle simmer—no need to boil. Cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta cooks evenly and the chicken becomes beautifully tender. By the end, your kitchen will smell incredible and the chowder will look thick and inviting.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Reduce your heat to low and stir in freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Keep stirring until both cheeses melt right into the chowder, making it creamy and silky with that signature Parmesan depth. Give it a final taste and adjust with salt or pepper if needed—then get ready to serve!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder

Garnishes

Before serving, ladle the chowder into bowls and top with extra grated Parmesan, a shower of fresh chopped parsley, and a crack of black pepper. These simple touches elevate every bowl, both in flavor and looks, and make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder restaurant-worthy at home.

Side Dishes

This rich chowder is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, pair it with a crunchy green salad or a crusty slice of sourdough bread. The bread’s perfect for scooping up every last drop, while the salad adds a refreshing, crisp balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special twist, serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls or tiny crocks at a winter gathering. You can also top each bowl with crunchy croutons, a drizzle of garlic oil, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a gentle burst of heat. This dish is as perfect for a cozy weeknight as it is for impressing company.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh and the texture creamy. The chowder will thicken as it sits, which makes for dreamy leftovers and easy packable lunches.

Freezing

If you want to freeze chowder for later, simply let it cool completely, then ladle into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. While the pasta may become a bit softer and the cream may separate slightly, a gentle reheat with a splash of broth or milk brings everything back together deliciously.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chowder in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up (since it thickens in the fridge). Stir often to prevent sticking and to help the cheese melt smoothly right back into the broth. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave; just pause to stir every 30–45 seconds for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, swap the raw chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken. Add it at the same step as the partially cooked chicken—just let it simmer gently so it absorbs the flavors without drying out.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder gluten-free?

You sure can. Substitute the shell pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety or even gluten-free gnocchi. Check that your chicken broth is gluten-free too, and the chowder will turn out just as comforting and delicious.

What’s the best way to keep the chowder from becoming too thick?

This chowder naturally thickens as it cools and as the pasta soaks up liquid. If it gets too thick for your liking, simply stir in a little more broth or milk during reheating until you reach that perfect creamy consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this chowder?

Absolutely. Diced carrots, celery, or a handful of baby spinach stirred in during the last few minutes of simmering add extra color and nutrition. Be sure not to overload the chowder, as too many veggies can crowd out those wonderful pasta shells and chicken.

How can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder extra cheesy?

If you’re a cheese lover, go ahead and add a bit more mozzarella or Parmesan at the end—or serve each bowl with a mini mountain of cheese on top! You can also try a blend of cheeses for a deeper, more complex flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing cozier than a steaming bowl of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Chowder on your table, whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself to a warm, homemade meal. This recipe is pure comfort—the kind you’ll want to return to all season long. Give it a try, and experience how just a handful of simple ingredients become something truly delicious and memorable!