Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of classic chicken Parmesan into a creamy, hearty soup. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it can be prepared. Just toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker, let it cook, and soon you’ll have a warm and flavorful meal ready to go.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
This Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup has earned a special place in many hearts for its rich taste and creamy texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken, hearty pasta, and creamy broth creates a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you. The addition of Parmesan cheese gives it that iconic flavor of chicken Parmesan, making it an instant favorite.
Ingredients about Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
To make this comforting soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
These basic ingredients come together to create a dish that is satisfying and full of flavor. Each component plays a role in the overall result, making it a balanced and nourishing meal.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup Directions
Making Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is incredibly easy, even for novice cooks. To start, gather all your ingredients and make sure your slow cooker is ready to go. Here’s how to prepare your soup step-by-step.
First, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot. This is essential as the chicken will be the star of your soup, providing both flavor and protein. Next, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, distributing them evenly over the chicken. These aromatics will infuse your soup with a wonderful flavor.
Now, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with some salt and pepper to taste. These spices will enhance the soup’s taste, bringing it to life. Pour six cups of chicken broth over everything in the crock pot. Carefully stir to combine the ingredients, ensuring everything is well mixed.
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat for about 4 to 5 hours. This slow cooking method will ensure that the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors of the broth and spices. When the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. This step allows you to enjoy shredded chicken in every bite of your soup.
Return the shredded chicken back to the pot and add in your chosen pasta and heavy cream. Stir everything well to combine. This will create a rich and creamy base for your soup. Now, cover the crock pot again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. This will give the pasta enough time to cook and absorb the flavors of the soup.
After the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the soup, enriching its creamy texture and adding that signature chicken Parmesan taste to the mix. Stir until the cheese is fully incorporated. Your soup is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
When it comes to serving your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup, you can keep it simple or go all out. A great way to enjoy this soup is to ladle it into bowls and sprinkle each serving with fresh parsley. The parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the soup.
For an extra touch, consider serving the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This will allow you to soak up every last drop of that creamy deliciousness. You could also add a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese to each bowl, enhancing the cheesy goodness. Pair your soup with a light salad for a complete meal.
Another option is to use a bread bowl for serving. This adds a fun twist and turns your soup into a complete dining experience. Just carve out a round loaf of bread, fill it with the soup, and enjoy the amazing combination of flavors as you eat both the soup and the bowl.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
To get the best results from your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. First, always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they provide the best texture for shredding. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs work well too.
Consider adjusting the consistency of your soup by using less or more chicken broth. For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth and increase the cream. Alternatively, if you want a lighter soup, you can add more broth.
When selecting pasta, choose shapes that hold onto the broth well, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni. These shapes make each bite more satisfying. It’s best to add the pasta during the last portion of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Just add it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You’ll also have the option to add vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Simply toss them in during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
Lastly, don’t skip on the fresh herbs for garnish. They truly elevate the soup and provide a bright, fresh flavor contrast to the creamy broth.
How to Store Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Storing your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is easy and convenient. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps preserve its freshness. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you wish to keep the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warm.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, it’s advisable to freeze the soup without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when you reheat it. This ensures that your dish doesn’t become mushy during storage.
Variation of Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
While the classic version of Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few variations that you can try to mix things up.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking. This will give your soup a nice heat that complements the rich flavors beautifully. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or diced green bell peppers for added dimension.
Another fun variation is to swap the pasta for a grain like quinoa or farro. This not only changes the taste but also adds a nutritious element to your meal. You can also use different types of cheese; for instance, mixing in mozzarella can enhance that gooey chicken Parmesan experience.
For a lighter version of the soup, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You could also add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for a heartier soup filled with nutrients. Lastly, explore herbs such as basil or oregano for additional layers of flavor.
FAQ
What is Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a creamy, hearty soup made with chicken, pasta, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. It combines the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan into a comforting soup that cooks effortlessly in a slow cooker.
How do I make Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
To make this soup, place chicken, onion, garlic, seasonings, and chicken broth in a crock pot. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, shred the chicken, add pasta and cream, and finish cooking. Stir in Parmesan before serving.
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Yes, using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm through.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
This soup is great with crusty bread or garlic bread. A fresh salad on the side also complements the richness of the soup. You can even serve it in a bread bowl for a fun twist.
How do I store Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, ideally without pasta. Thaw before reheating.
Feel free to explore different variations of this dish and adapt it to your family’s tastes! Enjoy the process of cooking and serving this heartwarming meal.
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup pasta (like ditalini or elbow) Choose shapes that hold onto the broth well.
- 6 cups chicken broth Adjust for desired consistency.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add more to taste when serving.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish Optional, adds freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, distributing them evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour six cups of chicken broth over all the ingredients and stir to combine.
Cooking
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for about 4 to 5 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the chosen pasta and heavy cream.
- Stir everything well to combine and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
- Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!