Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan with the ease and warmth of a slow cooker meal. This soup features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato broth, infused with Italian herbs, pasta, and topped with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. With its satisfying texture and bold flavors, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or as part of a meal-prep plan, this soup transforms a classic Italian favorite into a soul-warming bowl of comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The crockpot does most of the work, making this an effortless dish for busy days.
• All the Flavors of Chicken Parmesan: Packed with a tangy tomato base, hearty chicken, and gooey cheese.
• Perfect for the Whole Family: A comforting meal that’s kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different pasta, vegetables, or spices.
• Great for Meal Prep: Makes generous portions and reheats beautifully.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1½ cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¾ cup small pasta (like ditalini, elbow, or orzo)

For Topping:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
• Croutons or garlic bread, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out all your ingredients to streamline the process.
2. Lightly season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.

2. Assemble the Crockpot

1. Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, chicken broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently to combine.

3. Slow Cook the Soup

1. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

4. Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.

5. Add the Pasta

1. Add the uncooked pasta to the soup, stirring to ensure it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Add Cheese and Garnish

1. Just before serving, stir in the Parmesan cheese. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh parsley or basil, and optional croutons or garlic bread on the side.

Ingredient Background

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: A quality marinara sauce provides the tomato base and infuses the soup with bold Italian flavors.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and enhances the tomato richness of the broth.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo are ideal as they cook evenly and don’t overwhelm the soup.
• Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese: Essential for the Chicken Parmesan flavor, adding creaminess and a savory touch.

Technique Tips

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Add salt and pepper gradually to suit your preference, especially if using a salty broth or marinara sauce.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For meal prep or leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Shred Chicken Easily: Use a hand mixer to shred the chicken quickly and evenly.
• Thicken the Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Creamy Version: Add ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamier soup.
• Stuffed Pepper Twist: Add diced bell peppers to the soup for a stuffed pepper-inspired variation.
• Rustic Style: Serve with a rustic loaf of bread for dipping.
• Individual Servings: Ladle into oven-safe bowls, top with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly for a casserole-like presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to the finished dish.
• Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Add the pasta toward the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot for extra depth of flavor.
• Choose the Right Pasta: Smaller shapes are easier to eat and cook faster in the soup.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or cannellini beans and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Soup: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Spicy Version: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes and add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Cheesy Top: Add a layer of mozzarella on top of the soup in the crockpot and let it melt before serving.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add cumin, smoked paprika, and a splash of lime juice for a Mexican twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup without the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, adding fresh pasta during reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Grain Pasta: Use whole grain or lentil-based pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
• More Vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or kale for extra vitamins and texture.
• Lighten the Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the Parmesan to cut calories.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Potluck Favorite: Serve directly from the crockpot to keep the soup warm and inviting.
• Winter Gathering: Offer alongside other soups and stews for a cozy buffet.
• Elegant Starter: Serve in small bowls as a sophisticated appetizer with a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Special Equipment

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe.
• Ladle: Essential for serving the soup neatly.
• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella elevate the dish.
• Sharp Knife: Makes chopping vegetables and shredding chicken easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use cooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can add shredded rotisserie chicken during the last hour of cooking to save time.

Q2: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives for a creamy texture.

Q3: Can I use rice instead of pasta?
Absolutely! Add uncooked rice about 40 minutes before serving, as it requires more time to cook than pasta.

Q4: How can I thicken the soup?
Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend a portion of the soup and return it to the crockpot.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Q6: Can I double this recipe?
Yes, use a larger crockpot or divide the soup between two pots. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Q7: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, dice fresh tomatoes and simmer them down for a more natural tomato base.

Q8: What can I serve on the side?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or a crusty baguette pair wonderfully with this soup.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the savory essence of Chicken Parmesan with the cozy warmth of a hearty soup. This dish is perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a satisfying, flavorful meal. Easy to make and packed with rich Italian flavors, it’s a family favorite that satisfies every time. With its tender chicken, tangy tomato base, and melty cheese, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece, this versatile soup is guaranteed to impress and delight in every spoonful!

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