There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup filling your kitchen on a chilly day. This hearty, flavorful soup combines tender chicken, creamy tomato broth, and the irresistible taste of Parmesan cheese for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
I first discovered this recipe when I wanted the essence of chicken Parmesan without the effort of breading and frying. Tossing everything into the slow cooker and letting it work its magic was a game-changer, and now this dish is a weekly favorite in our home.
Let’s dive into why this soup will become your new go-to recipe!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Get ready to fall head over heels for this effortless and delicious dinner. Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect marriage of comfort food and convenience.
- Incredibly easy to make: Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, and let it do the work. No complicated steps or constant stirring required!
- Perfect for busy schedules: Whether you're running errands or working all day, this recipe comes together with minimal prep and cooks while you tackle your to-do list.
- Packed with flavor: From the savory chicken to the rich tomato-Parmesan broth, every spoonful is bursting with deliciousness.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love this recipe. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal everyone will enjoy.
Once you try it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this comforting classic in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Here's what makes this dish so special:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this recipe. They cook to tender perfection and shred effortlessly after simmering in the flavorful broth.
- Tomato base: A mix of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes creates a rich, savory base. If you like a bit of heat, try using fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
- Parmesan cheese: The grated Parmesan infuses the soup with a nutty, creamy flavor. Be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
- Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work best, as they complement the soup without overpowering it. Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid mushiness.
- Seasonings: A blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and onion powder enhances the flavor and gives the soup its classic Italian flair.
- Chicken broth: The base of the soup, it adds depth and ties all the flavors together. Opt for low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the saltiness.
Special Equipment
You'll need a 6-quart slow cooker for this recipe. If you don’t have one, it’s worth investing in; the versatility and convenience it brings to your kitchen are unmatched.
How To Make This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Here's how to do it step-by-step:
- Prep the ingredients: Start by chopping your vegetables and gathering all the ingredients. Add the chicken breasts, diced onions, garlic, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
- Build the base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Shred the chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the Parmesan and pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and pre-cooked pasta. Let the soup cook for another 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or parsley, and enjoy!
The total time is hands-off, leaving you with a perfectly cooked meal by dinner.
Storage Options
This soup is just as delicious the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep the pasta separate if possible, as it can absorb too much liquid over time.
- Freeze: If you'd like to freeze the soup, skip adding the pasta. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
Variations and Substitutions
This soup is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to get creative with it! Here are some ideas:
- Swap the chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy, indulgent twist.
- Go low-carb: Skip the pasta and add vegetables like zucchini noodles or riced cauliflower instead.
- Add greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Experimenting with these variations ensures you'll never tire of this cozy classic.
PrintCrockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Delight in the rich, cheesy goodness of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup! This flavorful slow-cooker recipe is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and Italian spices, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (on low)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup pasta of choice (e.g., ditalini or small shells)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes in a slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add pasta, cover, and cook on high for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, and heavy cream. Mix well until cheeses are melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1½ cups)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
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