Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is one of those recipes that just wraps you in comfort. I remember the first time I tried it; the kitchen was filled with the delightful aroma of garlic and tomatoes, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. This soup has a warm, creamy texture that makes it almost like a hug in a bowl. It’s no wonder people rave about it. With tender chicken, rich cheese, and flavorful herbs, it’s a dish worth trying. Not only is it easy to make, but it can also bring your family together around the dinner table, making it perfect for any weeknight meal or special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
What makes Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup truly special is its simplicity. You can toss all the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it do the work for you, giving you more time to relax or catch up on other tasks. The ingredients are easy to find, and they create a flavorful dish that everyone will love.
This soup combines the classic Italian flavors of chicken parmesan with a comforting twist. It’s creamy, savory, and you won’t believe how easy it is to prepare. Family dinners become cozy occasions when you serve something this delicious. Plus, kids love it! The cheerful mix of shredded chicken, melted cheese, and pasta makes it a fun meal for everyone. It also makes great leftovers, meaning you can enjoy it again without extra cooking.
Cooking this dish also brings back fond memories. Maybe it reminds you of a family gathering or special night in with friends. You can bring that warmth into your kitchen. It’s a dish that doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your heart.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Making this soup is a beautiful experience. Picture this: you walk into your kitchen, and the first thing you do is gather all your ingredients. You chop onions and garlic, and the sharp scents whisk around you, making your mouth water in anticipation. Then, you simply place everything into the crock pot, which is the best part!
After you mix everything together, you can already smell the savory chicken cooking throughout the day. Once it’s done, shredding the chicken is so satisfying; it almost feels therapeutic. As you stir in the cream and cheeses, the transformation is magical. What started as simple ingredients becomes a luxurious, creamy soup that feels special.
Finally, adding the cooked pasta just before serving makes it complete. Seeing the beautiful blend of colors—tender chicken, bright red tomatoes, and the golden hue of melted cheese—is a sight to behold. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you ladle this fragrant soup into bowls, garnishing it with fresh basil or parsley. Nothing compares to the joy of serving something homemade that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main component, it provides lean protein and makes the soup hearty.
- 1 small onion, finely diced – Adds a sweet, savory base flavor that pulls the soup together.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Offers a robust, aromatic flavor to the dish; garlic makes everything taste better.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Brings a tangy, rich tomato flavor and gives the soup its wonderful red color.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Forms the soup base, providing moistness and a savory taste; using low-sodium keeps it healthy.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A delightful mix of herbs that brings out the Italian roots of the dish; think basil, oregano, and thyme!
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Intensifies the flavor and provides a fresh, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the soup; adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds warmth and depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Perfect for those who enjoy a little heat; adjust according to your preference.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – This makes the soup rich and creamy, adding comfort to each spoonful.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into the soup, offering gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (cooked separately) – Serves as a hearty addition to the soup, soaking up all that flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Brightens up the dish with freshness and a pop of color.
Directions
Making Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through:
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Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Add to the Crock Pot: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Then add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. The aromas will start to fill your kitchen right away!
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Stir in Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and the chicken broth. These will provide the liquid base for your soup.
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Season It Up: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir it well to combine everything together.
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Set It and Forget It: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. Choose low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when it’s done.
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Shred the Chicken: After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place them on a cutting board and shred them using two forks.
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Return the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the soup. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything.
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Make It Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream, along with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix well until everything is melted and creamy. The smell is incredible at this point!
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Add the Pasta: Finally, add the cooked pasta to the soup. Stir gently to combine everything without breaking up the pasta.
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Garnish and Serve: Scoop your delicious soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy while it’s hot!
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheese and pasta, mix gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
- Check Doneness with a Fork: Make sure the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Let Cool Before Serving: The soup will be very hot! Allow it to cool slightly for safe serving.
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
There are so many ways to enjoy this soup! You can serve it in large bowls with crusty bread on the side for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad, giving you a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For drinks, a glass of cold lemonade or iced tea can make the meal refreshing. If you’re feeling extra cozy, a glass of warm apple cider also complements the rich flavors of the soup.
You might serve this dish for a weeknight family dinner or maybe even during a gathering with friends. It’s also an excellent option for chilly evenings or when someone is feeling under the weather—nothing warms the soul like homemade soup!
How to Store Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be tough because it’s so good), storing it is easy!
- In the Fridge: Place the soup in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- In the Freezer: You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to separate it into portions, as this makes reheating easier. Let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. It usually keeps well for about 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in short intervals—stirring in between.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Here are some handy tips to ensure you achieve the best results:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a big difference in flavor.
- Brown the Chicken First: For an extra layer of flavor, you can sear the chicken breasts in a pan before adding them to the crock pot.
- Grate Cheese Fresh: Grating cheese yourself, rather than buying pre-shredded, gives better melting and flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Variation
You can switch things up with these variations:
- Flavor Swaps: Add a bit of lemon juice or zest for a bright twist. Lemon complements rich flavors.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some spinach or kale just before serving for extra nutrition and color.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish friendly for those with gluten sensitivities.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance and just heated before serving. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it taste even better.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A: The best way to reheat the soup is on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use a microwave, just be sure to heat it in short intervals to avoid overheating.
Q: Can I use a different cheese or pasta?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda. For the pasta, any small shape will work, like small shells or elbow macaroni; just be sure to cook it separately first.
In conclusion, Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a heartwarming dish that beautifully combines ease of preparation with comforting flavors. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, one bite at a time! Enjoy making and sharing this cozy recipe.
