Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Discover the creamy, cheesy goodness of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, an easy comfort food that warms your soul and satisfies cravings like no other. This hearty soup blends tender chicken, rich tomato flavors, and melted cheese, slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly day or a simple yet delicious dinner, this recipe brings the familiar taste of chicken parmesan into a warming, spoonable delight that’s perfect anytime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: Just set it and forget it as the slow cooker does all the work, freeing up your time for other things.
- Rich, comforting flavors: Classic chicken parmesan tastes combine into a creamy, tomato-infused broth that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Family-friendly appeal: It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults find delicious and satisfying.
- Easy ingredient list: Simple pantry staples come together for maximum flavor without fuss.
- Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen overnight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but essential for hitting those signature flavors and that luscious texture you expect from a comfort food classic. Each item plays its role, from savory chicken and tangy tomatoes to creamy cheeses that melt perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: The tender protein base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- Canned crushed tomatoes: Provide a rich, slightly tangy foundation that simulates a traditional marinara sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and keeps the soup light but satisfying.
- Minced garlic and onion: Essential aromatics to build layers of flavor.
- Italian seasoning blend: Herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme bring classic Italian flair.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for that salty, nutty kick in every spoonful.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, balancing the tomato acidity beautifully.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates a silky texture that makes this soup so indulgent yet comforting.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all ingredients’ natural flavors.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread (optional): Perfect for dipping and completing your cozy meal.
Variations for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
One of the best things about this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is how easily it can be customized. Whether you want to tailor it to dietary preferences or add more veggies, this recipe welcomes your creative twists without losing its comforting essence.
- Vegetable boost: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Spicy kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat that warms you up.
- Low-carb option: Skip the bread and swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Extra cheesy: Sprinkle more parmesan on top before serving or blend in cream cheese for a decadent texture.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free broth and serve with gluten-free bread or crackers.
- Herb variations: Experiment with fresh basil or parsley instead of dried seasonings for brighter freshness.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by placing your minced garlic and diced onion into the slow cooker. These aromatics form the soulful foundation that will infuse the entire soup with warm, savory notes.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Liquids
Lay the boneless chicken breasts or thighs on top of the aromatics. Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, creating a rich, flavorful liquid base that tenderizes the chicken as it cooks.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This classic blend will bring out those timeless Italian flavors reminiscent of your favorite chicken parmesan dish.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy, soaking up all the savory tomato goodness.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup to absorb even more flavor.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Cream
Stir in the parmesan, mozzarella, and heavy cream. Mix gently until the cheese melts perfectly, transforming the soup into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Use fresh cheese: Freshly grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella melt better and taste fresher than pre-packaged versions.
- Don’t skip shredding: Shredding the chicken helps it absorb the tomato broth, adding more flavor to every bite.
- Adjust creaminess: Add cream gradually to reach your desired soup thickness and richness.
- Layer flavors early: Browning onions or garlic before adding them to the crockpot can deepen the soup’s flavor profile.
- Keep the lid closed: Avoid lifting the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain heat and cook times consistently.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Garnishes
Add a fresh sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley, a little extra grated parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil to brighten the flavors and create an inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
Garlic bread, crusty Italian rolls, or a simple green salad pair beautifully, soaking up the creamy broth and balancing the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in rustic bowls with a cheesy garlic toast on the side, or try French bread bowls for an irresistible, edible container that adds fun and depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup for up to 3 months. Freeze without the cream and cheese, then add them fresh when reheating to preserve texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add cream and cheese near the end to keep the soup creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but make sure to increase the cooking time slightly and verify that the chicken is cooked through before shredding.
Is this soup gluten-free?
The soup itself is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth and avoid adding bread as a side or garnish; always double-check labels to be sure.
Can I make this soup without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can prepare it on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients over medium heat until the chicken is cooked and the flavors meld, then shred the chicken and add the cheese and cream.
What’s the best way to shred chicken for this soup?
Use two forks to pull the cooked chicken apart into bite-sized shreds, or for an even easier method, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed.
Can I add pasta to Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
Yes! Stir in cooked pasta just before serving to avoid sogginess. Small shapes like orzo or ditalini work best for this soup.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a new kind of cozy, comforting meal that wraps you in cheesy, tomato-rich warmth, give this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup a try. It’s simple to make yet bursting with familiar, irresistible flavors that make every spoonful incredibly satisfying. Your slow cooker is about to become your new best friend for dinner time!
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Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting slow-cooked soup that combines tender chicken, rich tomato flavors, and melted cheeses. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, featuring classic Italian seasoning and easy pantry ingredients, delivering the beloved taste of chicken parmesan in a warm, spoonable form.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2–3 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
Base and Liquids
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Aromatics & Seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Dairy
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional
- Crusty bread or garlic bread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Place minced garlic and diced onion into the slow cooker to form the aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Add the Chicken and Liquids: Lay boneless chicken breasts or thighs atop the aromatics, then pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth to create a rich, flavorful base.
- Season the Soup: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the ingredients to develop classic Italian flavors.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken, shred using two forks, then return shredded chicken to the crockpot to absorb more flavor.
- Finish with Cheese and Cream: Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, and heavy cream gently until cheeses melt and soup becomes creamy and cheesy.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella for best melting and flavor.
- Shredding the chicken helps it soak up the broth and enhances taste.
- Add cream gradually to control soup thickness and richness.
- For deeper flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding to the slow cooker.
- Keep the crockpot lid closed during cooking to maintain consistent heat and timing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken parmesan soup, crockpot soup, slow cooker chicken, comfort food, creamy tomato soup, cheesy soup, Italian soup
