Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting blend of classic Italian flavors transformed into a hearty soup that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for warming you up on a chilly evening or for those busy weeknights when you want something that cooks itself while you go about your day.
Why We Love This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax or get things done. The magical process of slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully, so every bowl of soup is bursting with taste. The combination of chicken, creamy broth, and cheesy goodness makes it a family favorite that appeals to all ages. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze! You can create a nourishing dish in no time, ensuring you never have to compromise on flavor or nutrition when you’re short on time.
Ingredients about Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
To make this lovely Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can of tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz raw rotini pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Directions
Start by layering the base of your soup in the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the boneless chicken breasts, then add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. The liquid ingredients work together to create a rich base that will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
Next, stir in the chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt, making sure everything is well combined. This step is vital as the seasoning will permeate the chicken during the slow cooking process, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.
Now, cover the crockpot and set it on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re opting for a quick dinner, the high setting is perfect! Make sure to check your chicken around the 3-hour mark; it should be tender and easy to shred.
Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, ensuring that it doesn’t miss out on the delicious broth that has been developing.
Now for the creamy part: stir in the heavy whipping cream and the raw rotini pasta. Don’t forget to add half of your grated Parmesan cheese here; this will give the soup an extra layer of cheesy flavor! Give everything a gentle stir to mix well, then cover the crockpot again. Cook on high for an additional 15 minutes or low for 30 minutes, allowing the pasta to cook to al dente.
While the soup is finishing up, grab a separate pan. Add the butter, letting it melt over medium heat. Toss in the bread crumbs and toast them until they are golden brown. This will add a lovely crunch as a topping to your soup!
Finally, when everything is ready, ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the toasted bread crumbs for that satisfying crunch and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Each bowl will be a symphony of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing!
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Serving Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is as simple as it is satisfying. Start by ladling generous portions into large, cozy bowls. You’ll want to take a moment to appreciate the colorful layers and the tantalizing aroma wafting from each bowl.
For that authentic chicken Parmesan experience, add a sprinkle of the remaining mozzarella cheese directly over the hot soup. The heat will gently melt the cheese, creating that irresistible gooeyness that everyone loves.
Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have them on hand, like basil or parsley, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your soup with a side of crunchy garlic bread or warm crusty rolls to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth. This creates a well-rounded meal that’s not just filling but also incredibly comforting.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
To elevate your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, consider these expert tips. First, vary the type of cheese you combine for toppings; adding provolone or a dash of ricotta can add unique flavors to the dish.
If you prefer a thicker soup, try adding a bit of flour or cornstarch mixed with water towards the last 30 minutes of cooking. Be sure to whisk it thoroughly to avoid lumps!
For added flavor, consider searing the chicken breasts in a skillet before placing them in the crockpot. This step adds depth through caramelization and enhances the overall flavor.
Experimenting with different pasta shapes can also change things up. Shells or penne work just as well if you want a different texture.
Finally, feel free to toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a nutritional boost without compromising on flavor.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Storing your delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is straightforward. Allow any leftover soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This prevents moisture accumulation and keeps the soup fresh for longer.
You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure it’s completely cool, then pour it into a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth to bring back its original creamy consistency.
Variation of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
There are many ways to enjoy Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, allowing you to customize it according to your taste. For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with a lower-fat cream or even coconut milk for a unique twist.
If you want added greens, throw in some kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This not only adds flavor but boosts the soup’s nutritional value.
You can also experiment with different meats. Turkey breasts can be a lean alternative, or you could turn this into a flavorful vegetarian dish by omitting chicken and using chickpeas or white beans.
Spicing it up with red pepper flakes can cater to those who enjoy an extra kick. Lastly, for a more rustic flavor, add in some roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes to give your soup an additional depth of taste.
FAQ
What makes Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup so special?
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup combines tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and melted cheese into a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights, all while letting the crockpot do the work.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, warm crusty rolls, or a fresh salad, making for a complete and balanced meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Let leftovers cool before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great, you can use shells, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the chicken and use chickpeas or white beans as a protein substitute, maintaining the delicious flavors of the soup.
Enjoy crafting, savoring, and sharing this delightful Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup with your loved ones!
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use fresh or thawed chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth Low sodium option recommended
- 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes No salt added preferred
- 15 oz can of tomato sauce No salt added preferred
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream Can substitute with lower-fat cream
- 8 oz raw rotini pasta Can substitute with any pasta shape
Cheese Ingredients
- 1.5 cups grated mozzarella cheese Reserve some for topping
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Reserve half for stirring in
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 tablespoon butter For toasting bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs For topping, can be seasoned
Instructions
Preparation
- Layer the base of your soup in the crockpot with chicken broth, followed by chicken breasts, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
- Stir in chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and set it on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
- Check the chicken around the 3-hour mark. It should be tender and easy to shred.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in heavy whipping cream, rotini, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes or low for 30 minutes.
Finishing Touch
- In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat and toast bread crumbs until golden brown.
- Ladle soup into bowls, top with toasted bread crumbs and remaining mozzarella cheese.
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