If you love Chicken Parmesan but want a cozy, hassle-free meal, this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect solution! This soup captures the classic flavors of crispy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melty Parmesan cheese in a warm, comforting bowl. Plus, it’s made in your slow cooker, making it incredibly easy to prepare with minimal effort.
Perfect for busy weeknights, cold days, or whenever you need a taste of comfort, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? Your kitchen will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of Italian flavors while the crockpot does all the work!
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Here are a few reasons this recipe is bound to become a regular in your meal rotation:
- Easy to Make: Just dump the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Classic Flavors: Enjoy the taste of Chicken Parmesan in a hearty soup form.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory goodness.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping.
- Versatile: Serve with pasta, bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
For more comforting slow-cooker recipes, check out this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup for another cozy and satisfying dish.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like ditalini or rotini)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- In the crockpot, combine the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the chicken breasts and make sure they are submerged in the liquid.
3. Slow Cook the Soup
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
5. Add the Pasta and Cheese
- Stir in the uncooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes on high, or until the pasta is tender.
- Just before serving, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup with these delicious sides for a complete and satisfying meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, tomato-based broth.
- Crusty French Bread: Try this Soft Fluffy French Bread for a classic pairing.
- Side Salad: A fresh Italian Garden Salad adds balance to the hearty soup.
- Pasta: Serve the soup over a bed of cooked pasta for an even heartier dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added nutrition.
Tips and Variations
- Add More Veggies: Include spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken. Add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end for a richer soup.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze the soup (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. Add cooked pasta when reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating:
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.
- Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.
Healthier Swaps for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
If you’re looking for ways to lighten up this recipe while keeping all the delicious flavor, try these healthier swaps:
- Lean Protein:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
- Lower-Fat Dairy:
- Substitute the cream cheese or mozzarella with low-fat or reduced-fat versions to cut down on calories.
- Add More Vegetables:
- Incorporate nutrient-rich veggies like spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the fiber content and overall nutrition.
- Whole-Wheat Pasta:
- Use whole-wheat pasta or chickpea pasta for a boost of fiber and protein.
- Reduce Sodium:
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and season with fresh herbs to control the salt content.
Garnish and Flavor Boosters
Garnishes can take your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup to the next level. Here are a few ways to add even more flavor and visual appeal:
- Fresh Basil or Parsley:
- A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds color and freshness.
- Extra Cheese:
- Top with additional grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesier experience.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes:
- For a hint of heat, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Garlic Butter Drizzle:
- Drizzle a bit of garlic butter over the top for extra richness.
- Lemon Zest:
- Add a touch of lemon zest for a burst of brightness that complements the rich flavors.
How to Customize the Flavor Profile
This recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to customize the flavor:
- Italian Herb Blend:
- Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a more herbaceous flavor.
- Tomato Basil Twist:
- Stir in fresh basil and a tablespoon of tomato paste to intensify the tomato flavor.
- Smoky Flavor:
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
- Creamy Pesto Version:
- Stir in a couple of tablespoons of pesto for a creamy, herbaceous twist.
- Mushroom Addition:
- Sauté mushrooms and add them to the soup for an earthy flavor.
️ How to Make It a Complete Meal
Transform your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup into a full, satisfying meal with these serving suggestions:
- Bread Options:
- Serve with crusty French bread, garlic knots, or Homemade Light Brioche Buns for dipping.
- Pasta Pairing:
- Serve the soup over cooked spaghetti, penne, or rotini for a heartier dish.
- Salad Side:
- Pair with a fresh salad like this Italian Garden Salad to balance the richness of the soup.
- Vegetable Sides:
- Add a side of steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach for a boost of greens.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop the vegetables and season the chicken the night before. Store everything in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
- Assemble in Advance: Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day.
Freezing Instructions:
- Before Cooking: Assemble the ingredients (except for the pasta and cheese) in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
- After Cooking: Let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Add fresh-cooked pasta when reheating for the best texture.
Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened.
- Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, shred it and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. Can I Make This Soup on the Stovetop?
Absolutely! Simmer all ingredients in a large pot for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, then add the pasta and cheese.
3. What Type of Pasta Works Best?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, rotini, penne, or shells work best as they cook evenly and hold the sauce well.
4. How Can I Thicken the Soup?
To thicken the soup, mash some of the potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
5. Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a game-changer for busy nights and cozy weekends alike. With minimal prep and the rich, comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan, this slow-cooker recipe delivers a satisfying meal with ease. Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or pasta for a complete, family-friendly dinner.
For more comforting and easy slow-cooker recipes, check out this Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup or Creamy Chicken Carbonara for another cozy, satisfying dish.
Happy Cooking, and Enjoy Your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup! ✨