Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that practically makes itself, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Just toss everything into the crock pot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Trust me; once you try this soup, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation!

What I love most about this recipe is how comforting it is. The tender chicken and delightful pasta combined with a rich Parmesan-infused broth create a bowl of goodness that warms both body and soul. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking: Simply add your ingredients to the crock pot and let it do all the work!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy delight.
• Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of spices and Parmesan cheese makes every spoonful delicious.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these ingredients are simple and wholesome! They come together beautifully to create a hearty soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

For the Soup

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey for a quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or chopped carrots for extra nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles if you’re looking for a healthier twist.
• Spice it up: Adjust the red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by placing the chicken breasts into your crock pot along with chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial because these ingredients will simmer together and create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that your chicken becomes tender and easy to shred.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. This step not only makes it easier to mix back into the soup but also allows those tender pieces of chicken to soak up even more flavor when returned back.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Then add in your choice of pasta and let everything cook together for an additional 15-20 minutes. This is where your soup transforms into a creamy delight!

Step 5: Final Touches

Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and give everything a good stir. Taste it one last time before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary—this way you’ll ensure each bowl is just perfect.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving. This final touch adds not only color but also freshness that elevates each bowl of soup!

Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with loved ones; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but these pro tips will ensure you achieve the perfect creamy consistency and flavors!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance the flavor profile of your soup. Their natural aromas will infuse the broth beautifully, making every spoonful taste delightful.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Remember that everyone’s palate is different! Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. This ensures that the dish is tailored to your liking.

• Experiment with Pasta Types: While penne or rotini work great, feel free to try other pasta shapes like shells or fusilli. Different shapes can create unique textures and make each bowl visually appealing.

• Cook Pasta Separately for Meal Prep: If you plan on storing leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately. This prevents it from becoming mushy when reheating and keeps the soup’s texture intact.

• Add Veggies for Extra Nutrients: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They not only add color but also boost the nutritional value of your soup.

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Serving this comforting soup is all about enhancing its creamy goodness while providing a delightful experience for your guests or family. Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan on top brings out that cheesy flavor we all love.
• Croutons: Add a few crunchy croutons for texture! They provide a nice contrast to the creamy soup and make each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances every spoonful of soup.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a zesty dressing offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup. Plus, it’s easy to prepare!
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and nutrition to your meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette provides a tasty contrast to the warm soup while adding protein and fiber.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup will be a delightful centerpiece at any table! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty, delicious meals throughout the week without much fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the soup is completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely before freezing.
• Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain tender during cooking. Just adjust cooking time if necessary.

How can I make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using low-fat cream or replacing some cream with additional chicken broth. Adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini can also boost nutrition!

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

Penne and rotini are great options as they hold sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape!

Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup as much as I do! It’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to get creative with it and share your own twist! Happy cooking!