Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending all the flavors of a classic chicken parmesan dish with the warmth and creaminess of a hearty soup. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal effort, allowing the slow cooker to do most of the work. The tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and rich Parmesan cheese create a flavorful base, while the pasta and cream make the soup satisfyingly creamy. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Cooking

This recipe is a true set-it-and-forget-it meal. Just place the ingredients in the slow cooker, let it do the work, and enjoy a delicious, creamy soup without the hassle.

2. Rich and Creamy Flavor

The combination of marinara sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety, rich soup that’s packed with flavor. It’s like enjoying chicken parmesan in a bowl!

3. Hearty and Satisfying

With tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy broth, this soup is filling enough to be a complete meal. It’s perfect for cooler months when you want something comforting and hearty.

4. Family-Friendly

Even picky eaters will love this soup! The familiar flavors of chicken parmesan appeal to all ages, making it an excellent option for family dinners.

5. Convenient for Busy Days

Since it’s made in a slow cooker, this soup is ideal for busy days when you need a meal to be ready when you get home. The prep time is minimal, and the cooking is all done in the crock pot.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked pasta

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a slightly richer flavor.
• Different Pasta: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni, instead of the one suggested in the recipe.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add some vegetables like zucchini or spinach to make a hearty vegetarian version of the soup.
• Cheese Options: In addition to Parmesan, you can sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the soup when serving for an extra cheesy touch.
• Spicy Option: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of spice in the soup.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Broth

Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, covering the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Season the Soup

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.

Step 6: Add Cream and Pasta

Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and uncooked pasta. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 8: Combine and Serve

Add the shredded chicken back into the soup and stir to combine. Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy chicken parmesan soup!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Shredding the Chicken: For easier shredding, use two forks or a hand mixer to shred the chicken once it’s cooked through.
• Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Pasta Cooking Tip: Be careful not to overcook the pasta. Add it toward the end of the cooking time to ensure it stays tender but not mushy.
• Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
• Make it Extra Creamy: For an even creamier texture, you can stir in an additional splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese.

How to Serve

Serve this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup hot, topped with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or a few fresh basil leaves. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping, a fresh green salad, or a side of garlic bread to complete the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! After it has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat leftover soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. However, you may need to cook it on high for a bit longer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup will be less creamy.

3. Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or when it shreds easily with a fork.

5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe. Just add it in after the soup has finished cooking and allow it to heat through.

6. Can I make this in the instant pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 10 minutes, shred it, then add the pasta, cream, and cheese. Cook for an additional 5 minutes on the sauté function.

7. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a bit of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the soup for a spicy kick.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I add more pasta?

Yes, you can add more pasta, but be sure to adjust the amount of broth or cream to maintain the desired soup consistency.

10. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a perfect dish for anyone looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal. The flavors of chicken parmesan are brought together in a rich, creamy soup that’s hearty enough for a main course. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this slow-cooked recipe will become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.

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