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
- Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Add pasta toward the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a milder soup, omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy soup, blend half the soup before adding pasta.
- 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!
