Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food, effortlessly combining the rich flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan into a cozy soup. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, meal prep, or a comforting weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and tangy tomatoes, it offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time and easy slow cooking, you can set it and forget it.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and savory herbs creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like chicken and tomatoes, it’s a comforting yet nutritious option.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will appreciate this creamy twist on a classic favorite!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Measuring Cups
- Mixing Spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over hours.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor in your soup.
Ingredients
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup blends all the bold, comforting flavors of the classic Chicken Parmesan into a rich, hearty soup. Slow-cooked with tender shredded chicken, tangy tomatoes, herbs, and a velvety mix of cream and freshly grated Parmesan, this soup is as effortless as it is delicious. Perfect for family dinners or weekly meal prep, it’s warm, cheesy comfort in a bowl.
For the Soup Base
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Thickening Agent
- 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Place raw chicken in the bottom of the crock pot.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Add chopped onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, and crushed tomatoes to the pot.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
Pour chicken broth over all ingredients ensuring everything is well covered.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove cooked chicken from the pot. Use forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the crock pot.
Step 6: Add Creaminess
Stir in heavy cream until well combined with other ingredients.
Step 7: Thicken if Desired
(Optional) Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup to thicken as desired.
Step 8: Incorporate Cheese
Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly until melted into the soup.
Step 9: Final Cook
Cook uncovered on low for an additional 20–30 minutes to meld flavors together.
Step 10: Serve
Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup!
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate the meal, here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf pairs beautifully, perfect for dipping into the soup.
Over Pasta
- Serve the soup over cooked pasta for a heartier meal. Try using penne or fettuccine for added texture.
Topped with More Cheese
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an added cheesy flavor boost.
With a Fresh Salad
- A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, adding freshness to your plate.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each bowl with chopped fresh parsley or basil to give it a vibrant look and aromatic taste.
In Bread Bowls
- For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds a delicious crunch and makes for an impressive presentation.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these useful tips:
Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and high-quality broth will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the Italian seasoning or add more garlic according to your taste preferences.
Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker soup, use the cornstarch slurry but add it gradually to avoid over-thickening.
Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to cook longer on low heat can deepen the flavors; just make sure not to let it cook dry.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged enhances creaminess and prevents clumping.
Cool Before Storing: If you have leftovers, let them cool before transferring them into containers for storage. This preserves texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Pairing sides with your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s perfect for sopping up every drop of that creamy soup.
Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy dressing contrast nicely with the rich soup flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like broccoli or carrots tossed in olive oil add color and nutrition.
Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice and ground meat for a comforting addition alongside your soup.
Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto complements the chicken parmesan flavors without overshadowing them.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite.
Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, this salad can be flavored with lemon juice and herbs for added zest.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or pepper can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Using low-quality chicken broth: A poor-quality broth can affect the flavor. Choose a low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness and a richer taste.
- Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it may become dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender results.
- Not shredding the chicken properly: Leaving large pieces of chicken can make it hard to enjoy the soup. Shred it well so that each bite is flavorful and easy to eat.
- Forgetting to add cream at the right time: Adding heavy cream too early can cause it to curdle. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
- Neglecting toppings: Skipping garnishes like fresh parsley can make your soup less appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle of herbs for both flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave space in containers for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until heated through.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just increase the cooking time by 1–2 hours on low.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
To make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
What can I serve with this soup?
For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread too!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is not only easy to make but also delivers comforting flavors that everyone loves. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy warm, cheesy goodness any day of the week!
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings the rich, hearty flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan into a cozy bowl. This slow-cooked delight features tender shredded chicken simmered in a creamy broth with tangy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a generous helping of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this soup is not only easy to make but also satisfying and nutritious. Serve it with crusty bread or over pasta for a delightful meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- optional crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Place raw chicken in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and crushed tomatoes.
- Pour chicken broth over all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream and gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Cook uncovered on low for another 20–30 minutes to meld flavors before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
