City, held 1-1 by Doncaster on their last Carrow Road outing, were presented with an excellent chance to take the lead in the 72nd minute when Darren Carter was penalised for handball.
But Hoolahan tried to chip the ball past Turner, who gratefully clutched the ball.
Substitute Chris Brown, who had only been on the pitch two minutes, handed Preston a surprise lead on the hour when he chested down a Keith Treacy pass before volleying past City stopper John Ruddy - his first goal for over a year.
But their lead was shortlived as Norwich responded within two minutes with captain Grant Holt tapping home his 16th goal of the season after North End keeper Iain Turner had parried Andrew Surman`s shot.
The Canaries pushed for a late winner, which they have achieved many times this season, but North End held firm.
Source: PA
Source: PA