Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a cozy and comforting dish that brings the beloved flavor of chicken Parmesan into a warm, hearty soup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and made effortless with the help of your slow cooker. This creamy soup combines tender chicken, rich broth, and hearty pasta that will leave your family asking for seconds.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
This recipe stands out because of its incredible flavor and convenience. It’s all made in one pot, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become wonderfully tender, while the blend of spices and creamy ingredients creates a deliciously comforting bowl of soup. Plus, preparing it in the crock pot means it can simmer away with little effort on your part, allowing you to enjoy time with your family or focus on other tasks. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite!
Ingredients about Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
To bring this mouthwatering dish to life, gather the following ingredients to create the perfect pot of Chicken Parmesan Soup:
- 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
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup Directions
Making this soup is straightforward and takes just a few simple steps. Here’s how to create your delightful bowl of Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup:
- Start by placing the boneless and skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This serves as the base of your soup, allowing the flavors to build up as it cooks.
- Next, evenly distribute the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken. These aromatic ingredients will infuse the soup with incredible flavor.
- Season everything with Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. This blend of spices will enhance the overall profile of your soup, bringing out the best in every spoonful.
- Now, pour the chicken broth over the top. This will create a flavorful liquid base for your soup, infusing the chicken with rich taste as it cooks. Give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- Cover your crock pot and let it cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. During this time, the chicken will tenderize, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
- When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into the pot.
- Add the pasta and heavy cream to the soup, stirring everything together. This creamy addition is what makes this soup so comforting and delicious. Increase the heat setting to high and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to become soft and absorb the flavors.
- Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully incorporated. This key ingredient adds that signature cheesy, rich flavor that we all love in chicken Parmesan dishes.
- Serve your soup hot and garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting meal!
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
When it comes to serving your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup, presentation is key. To create an inviting meal, ladle the soup into sturdy bowls, making sure to include a balanced portion of chicken, pasta, and broth. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a vibrant touch. For those who crave a little extra flavor, offer additional grated Parmesan on the side. This not only enhances the dish but allows each person to dial up the cheesy goodness to their liking.
Pair your soup with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup while providing fresh crunch. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Chicken Parmesan Soup with loved ones and savor the flavors of this delightful dish.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Creating a delicious Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is straightforward, but these expert tips will ensure that you achieve the best possible results:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts to ensure tenderness. Thighs can also be an excellent option for a richer flavor.
- Prep in Advance: To save time on busy days, chop your veggies and seasonings the night before and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, everything will be ready to go!
- Cooking Time: If you are in a rush, you can use the high setting on your crock pot. Just be mindful that the cooking time will reduce to about 2 to 3 hours. Always check that your chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Experiment with Pasta: Use different types of pasta, like shells or rotini, to change the texture of your soup. However, avoid using quick-cooking pasta, as it may become mushy in the slow cooker.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
How to Store Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Storing your Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is simple and effective. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Ideally, store it in glass containers for better preservation.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you’d like to keep it for a more extended period, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion as it freezes. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Variation of Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
While the classic version of this soup is delightful, you can easily switch up ingredients to tailor it to your family’s tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations:
- Make It Healthier: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option. You can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
- Add More Veggies: Try adding diced tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a boost of nutrition and color. These veggies will not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your soup.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This will give your soup an extra kick and add depth.
- Herbed Up: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. You can add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep their fresh taste.
- Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy blend, mix in some cream cheese or ricotta when you add the heavy cream. This will give your soup an ultra-smooth texture.
FAQ
What makes crock pot chicken Parmesan soup so special?
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup combines the beloved flavors of chicken Parmesan into a comforting soup. The slow cooker allows the chicken to tenderize, and the creamy broth is both hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, adjust the cooking time slightly. On low, it may take an additional hour for the chicken to fully cook. Ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What kind of pasta works best for this soup?
Short pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow pasta are ideal, as they hold up well in the soup and are easy to eat. Avoid pasta that cooks too quickly, as it can become mushy in the crock pot.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this soup?
Preparation is quick and usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Cooking time in the crock pot is 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high, making it a convenient dish to come home to after a long day.
Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?
Yes, to make it vegan, substitute chicken with chickpeas or cubed tofu, use vegetable broth, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also skip the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.
How do I store leftover crock pot chicken Parmesan soup?
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, or freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless Opt for fresh chicken for better tenderness.
- 1 cup pasta (like ditalini or elbow) Short pasta shapes work best.
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for lighter option.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Add extra for serving if desired.
- 1 onion, chopped Provides aromatic flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Can substitute with fresh herbs.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to personal preference.
- to garnish Fresh parsley For color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless and skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot.
- Evenly distribute the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients and stir gently to combine.
Cooking
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours.
- After cooking, remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Add the pasta and heavy cream, then stir to combine.
- Increase heat setting to high and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to include chicken, pasta, and broth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
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