This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is warmth in a bowl! Made with tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and creamy cheese, it’s both hearty and comforting.
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. Plus, who can resist a meal that tastes like pizza in soup form? Yum! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this soup, as they cook quickly and shred well. If you’d like a different source of protein, use rotisserie chicken for convenience or even some plant-based chicken alternatives!
Marinara Sauce: This gives your soup its rich flavor. You can swap it with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes mixed with Italian seasoning if you’re in a pinch. Homemade marinara works great too!
Heavy Cream: For a creamy texture, heavy cream is perfect. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. You could also use plain Greek yogurt for a tangy kick!
Pasta: Ditalini and elbow macaroni are great choices, but feel free to use any small pasta like orzo or mini penne. For a low-carb version, substitute with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
For tender chicken in this soup, low and slow is the key. Cooking it in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy. Here’s how:
- Place the chicken in the bottom to ensure it gets fully immersed in the broth and sauce.
- After cooking, let it cool for a few minutes before shredding. This keeps the juices in!
- When you add the pasta, ensure it’s fully submerged in the broth for even cooking.
These little tips will help you create a delicious bowl of Chicken Parmesan Soup that your family will love! Happy cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and then you’ll let your crockpot do its magic. If you cook it on low, allow about 6-7 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, use the high setting for about 3-4 hours. After everything is done, you’ll need another 20-30 minutes for the pasta. So total, around 7 hours for low and about 4 hours and a half for high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This ensures they soak up all the yummy flavors!
2. Add Liquid and Seasoning
Next, pour in the chicken broth and the marinara sauce. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Add salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
3. Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. If you’re using the low setting, let it go for 6-7 hours. If you’re pressed for time, the high setting will take about 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and nice and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts and place them on a plate. Use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot. It’s getting good!
5. Cook the Pasta
Now, stir in your small pasta and set the crockpot to high. Let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
6. Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
It’s time to dish out this delicious soup! Serve it hot in bowls and top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil for that beautiful finish. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy bowl of Chicken Parmesan Soup that feels like a warm hug!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken breasts, make sure to cook the soup on high for about 4-5 hours to ensure it’s cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Soup?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just add them to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking so they stay a bit crisp and fresh!
