Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful culinary masterpiece that combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan into a warm, comforting soup. This dish is not only hearty but also incredibly easy to make, allowing the rich flavors of chicken and tomatoes to meld beautifully. With each spoonful, you’re greeted by tender pieces of chicken, aromatic herbs, and melty cheese, making it a feast for both the senses and the soul. The best part? It’s a low-effort recipe that yields maximum flavor, which is why it’s worth making any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is designed for everyone! It boasts easy prep, ideal for busy families or anyone seeking a quick meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s simple enough for beginners while still being an enjoyable cooking experience for seasoned chefs. The soup is comforting and filling, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to cater to your family’s tastes and preferences.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
For the rich and flavorful Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, you will need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These serve as the hearty base, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Adds a robust, tangy sweetness that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides a deliciously rich broth essential for the soup’s body.
- 1 onion, diced: Delivers depth and sweetness to the overall flavor profile.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with inviting aroma and warmth.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil: Bring in that classic Italian flavor, enhancing the authenticity of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a slight earthy note to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup cooked pasta: A comforting addition to make it even heartier.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the soup, elevating its creamy texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: A finishing touch that brings richness and a delightful salty kick.
Step-by-Step Directions for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
1. Place the Chicken Breasts
Begin your culinary adventure by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This allows the chicken to cook evenly while soaking in all the delicious flavors of the soup.
2. Add Ingredients
Next, add a can of crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. These ingredients are the heart of your soup and will work together to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
3. Stir to Combine
With all the ingredients in the crockpot, give everything a gentle stir to combine. This creates a mouthwatering mixture that will simmer and develop a rich flavor profile as it cooks.
4. Cook
Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook through, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
5. Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the crockpot. This process infuses the soup with tender chicken strands that soak up the delicious broth.
6. Add Pasta
Stir in 1 cup of cooked pasta to the crockpot and mix well. This addition transforms your soup into a filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an indulgent finish. Enjoy your homemade Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup!
Tips & Tricks for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
To elevate your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, consider these cooking hacks:
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs can add even more flavor. If you have fresh basil or parsley, toss them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Spicy Kick: Looking for some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for a mild kick that complements the Italian flavors.
Creamy Texture: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk just before serving.
Pasta Alternatives: If you prefer gluten-free options, substitute the pasta with quinoa or omit it altogether for a low-carb version.
Garnish: Fresh basil leaves as a garnish not only look beautiful but add a fresh aroma and flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it with:
- Garlic Bread: A delicious way to soak up the savory soup.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp side salad to add freshness to your meal.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Perfect for an indulgent twist, enhancing the overall experience.
If you want to make it a full Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or a light Italian wine, if desired.
Nutritional Information
A hearty serving of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
This nutritional profile is ideal for a fulfilling meal without compromising on taste! It’s a cozy, indulgent option to enjoy without the guilt when you use healthier ingredients.
Storing Tips & Variations for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
This soup is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage:
Freezing: The soup freezes well! Pour portions into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating: If you’ve stored the soup, add a splash of broth or water when reheating to maintain the desired consistency.
Healthier Swaps: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb version, or use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
Creative Variations: For a different spin, add spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutrient boost.
Conclusion for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that marries convenience with flavor. Its ease of preparation and cozy, heartwarming flavors make it a must-try recipe. So gather your ingredients and start cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can add frozen chicken directly into the crockpot. Just ensure to extend the cooking time by an hour.
2. Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and simply cook them in the morning.
3. How can I adjust the recipe for different serving sizes?
You can easily scale the ingredients up or down based on the number of servings needed.
4. What kind of pasta works best for this soup?
Any small pasta, like ditalini or elbow macaroni, works wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta!
5. Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Adding vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup. Just add them at the beginning for optimal cooking.
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 285 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free options available
Description
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a rich broth with tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and melty cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks in the crockpot.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and mix well.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.
Notes
For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk just before serving. Great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 270 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
