There’s nothing more comforting than coming home to the aroma of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup simmering away in your kitchen. This hearty, flavorful soup combines tender chicken, rich tomato broth, and a cheesy, parmesan-filled finish for a meal that warms you from the inside out.
I first discovered this recipe on a chilly winter evening, looking for a way to recreate my family’s favorite Italian dish with less fuss. Little did I know, it would become a weekly staple that everyone can’t get enough of. Let’s dive into the irresistible charm of this slow-cooked masterpiece!
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Get ready to embrace the easiest way to enjoy the flavors of chicken parmesan in a cozy soup form. This dish is perfect for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who craves a no-hassle dinner with maximum flavor.
- Set It and Forget It: Toss the ingredients in your slow cooker in the morning and come home to a fully cooked, restaurant-quality meal. It’s that simple.
- Packed with Comfort: This soup features a hearty combination of shredded chicken, pasta, and gooey parmesan cheese, offering all the cozy vibes you need on a chilly evening.
- Healthy and Wholesome: With lean chicken breast and nutrient-rich tomatoes, you can enjoy a comforting meal that doesn’t feel heavy or indulgent.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Whether you're serving picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this soup hits the mark every time.
Ready to make your new favorite slow cooker recipe? Let’s start with the ingredients.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s break them down to ensure you get the perfect bowl every time.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this soup. They cook to perfection in the slow cooker, becoming tender and shreddable by the time you’re ready to eat.
- Crushed Tomatoes: A can of quality crushed tomatoes is key to building the soup's rich, savory base. If you want a chunkier texture, diced tomatoes are a great alternative.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup while adding depth to the flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is essential for that creamy, cheesy finish. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, as they don’t melt as smoothly.
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ditalini work best in this recipe. Cook it separately to avoid sogginess, then stir it into the soup before serving.
For equipment, a 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe. You’ll also need a grater for the parmesan and a small pot to prepare the pasta.
How To Make This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Making this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is as simple as layering ingredients, letting the slow cooker work its magic, and finishing with a few easy steps. Here's how:
- Start with the Chicken and Broth: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Add a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, or remove it to a plate to shred before returning it to the pot.
- Add the Parmesan and Pasta: Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts into the broth. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions and add it to the soup just before serving.
This soup is ready in about 30 minutes of hands-on time, with the slow cooker doing most of the heavy lifting. Serve it with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan for the ultimate presentation.
Storage Options
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is perfect for meal prep and stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the pasta) in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. If you’re reheating with pasta, consider adding it closer to the end to avoid overcooking.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to switch it up:
- Make It Creamy: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half for a richer broth.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: In a pinch, shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Add it in the final hour of cooking.
- Swap the Protein: Not a fan of chicken? Try using turkey breast or even Italian sausage for a heartier twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta altogether and serve the soup with a side of crusty bread.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and add white beans or chickpeas in place of the chicken.
The possibilities are endless – don’t be afraid to experiment and make this soup your own!
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal to warm up a chilly night or an easy dinner that everyone will love, Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a winner every time. Serve it with a slice of garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Give it a try, and let me know how it becomes a favorite in your home!
PrintCrockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
This hearty Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Slow-cooked to perfection, it's a must-try recipe for soup lovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cooked pasta (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Serve warm with cooked pasta (if desired) and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For a lower-carb option, omit the pasta or use zucchini noodles.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
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