Ultimate Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe

Why Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup?

What makes this soup special?

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup combines the comforting flavors of traditional chicken parmesan into a hearty and creamy soup. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that saves time while delivering a rich, satisfying taste. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is guaranteed to please.

Is this recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes! With a slow cooker doing most of the work, this recipe is ideal for cooks of all skill levels. The prep is simple, and the step-by-step process ensures consistent, delicious results every time.

What are the health benefits of this dish?

This soup provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Using fresh ingredients like chicken breasts, tomatoes, and herbs makes it a wholesome meal. You can also modify the recipe to suit dietary needs, such as using gluten-free pasta or reducing the cream for a lighter version.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

For the Soup:

• 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups (1 liter) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (28 oz or 800g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1.5 cups (150g) uncooked rotini or penne pasta
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (50g) garlic croutons
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the onion and green bell pepper.
• Mince the garlic.
• Grate the Parmesan cheese.

2. Set Up the Slow Cooker

• Pour the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes into the crockpot.
• Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

3. Add the Chicken

• Place the chicken breasts into the mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged.

4. Cook

• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Shred the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

6. Add the Cream and Pasta

• Stir in the heavy cream and uncooked pasta. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

7. Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and blends into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

8. Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls.
• Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic croutons, and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

• Yes, you can add pre-cooked shredded chicken during the last hour of cooking.

2. How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

• Yes, but leave out the pasta and dairy before freezing. Add them fresh when reheating.

4. What are some variations of this recipe?

• Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I make this on the stovetop?

• Yes, simmer all ingredients (except cream, pasta, and Parmesan) in a large pot for 30-40 minutes. Add cream and pasta, then cook until pasta is tender. Stir in Parmesan before serving.

Tips for the Best Soup

1. Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
2. Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Add pasta toward the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
3. Adjust Spice Level: For a milder soup, omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy soup, blend half the soup before adding pasta.
5. Serving Suggestion: Pair with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 4g

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, and savor the comforting taste of a classic Italian favorite in a bowl!