If you are craving something irresistibly comforting and bursting with flavor, the Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is about to become your new go-to meal. This hearty soup combines tender shredded chicken, rich Parmesan, and creamy broth all mingled with the bright, aromatic notes of garlic and Italian herbs. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly night, delivering all the deliciousness of classic chicken Parmesan in a cozy, spoon-worthy form. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight winner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this soup plays a vital role in building its layered, comforting flavors and creamy texture. From the tender chicken breasts to the sharp Parmesan cheese, these simple staples come together beautifully and effortlessly in your Crock Pot.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein base that becomes tender and shreddable during slow cooking.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle aromatic foundation to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a robust, savory depth that’s essential to Italian-inspired dishes.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A perfect herbal blend to evoke that classic chicken Parmesan flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your preference.
- 14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes: Provides acidity and a rich tomato base for the broth.
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium): Keeps the soup flavorful yet not overly salty while giving it a comforting body.
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk): Brings the luscious creaminess that turns the soup indulgent and smooth.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Offers a salty, savory punch and thickens the soup slightly as it melts.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening): Great for achieving your ideal soup consistency without overpowering flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The finishing touch to balance and brighten every spoonful.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Step 1: Lay the Foundation
Start by placing the raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts flat at the bottom of your Crock Pot. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly, resulting in tender meat perfect for shredding later.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Seasonings
Sprinkle your chopped onion and minced garlic right over the chicken. Next, add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. These elements infuse the soup with vibrant, classic Italian flavors that make this dish unforgettable.
Step 3: Pour in the Liquids
Slowly pour the chicken broth over the layered ingredients, making sure the chicken is fully submerged. This creates a flavorful cooking environment that will keep your chicken juicy and tender. Add the crushed tomatoes here for rich color and a slight tang.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the Crock Pot and let everything cook on low for about 6 hours. This gently melds all the flavors together and allows the chicken to become deliciously tender, ready to be shredded with a couple of forks right in the pot.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once shredded, stir in the heavy cream to bring that velvety smoothness, followed by the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which enriches the broth with a savory depth. Mix thoroughly so every bite tastes perfectly balanced.
Step 6: Thicken the Soup
Cook uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes to let the soup thicken naturally. If you prefer a thicker consistency, whisk in cornstarch mixed with a little water to get the soup just right. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste!
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you can really make this soup shine visually and flavor-wise. Freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a vibrant green pop, while a sprinkle of extra Parmesan gives that final cheesy accent. For a little crunch, crispy garlic bread crumbs or a swirl of cream on top can bring the dish to the next level.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks, giving you something perfect for dipping into that creamy broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also works wonders to balance the richness and add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun, cozy presentation that’s almost too pretty to eat. Alternatively, ladle it over cooked pasta for a hybrid between soup and a pasta dish, or add roasted vegetables on the side to complement the Italian flavors effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This soup will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the next day’s meal even better.
Freezing
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just leave out the Parmesan cheese until reheating to keep it from becoming grainy, then stir it in fresh after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. This will bring back that perfect creamy texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add even more moisture and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may cook a bit faster or slower depending on size.
Is there a dairy-free option for this soup?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast to keep it creamy and cheesy without dairy. This makes the Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
Do I need to shred the chicken or can I leave it in chunks?
Shredding the chicken allows it to absorb more of the delicious broth and integrates better with the creamy texture. However, if you prefer larger pieces, you can leave the chicken in chunks and simply cut them after cooking.
Can I make this soup on the stove instead of a crock pot?
Yes, you can simmer all the ingredients in a large pot on low to medium heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Just stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add cream and Parmesan at the end.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the savory flavors without overpowering the dish. You can easily skip or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder soup.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and ease all at once, and the Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe does exactly that. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this soup brings warmth and joy straight to your table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy chicken Parmesan in an unexpected and utterly delicious way.
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Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken breasts simmer slowly with aromatic onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed tomatoes in a savory broth. It is enriched with creamy heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, satisfying texture. This easy-to-make recipe delivers all the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan in a cozy soup form, ideal for busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 14.5 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (can substitute with coconut milk)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Grate the Parmesan cheese fresh for the best flavor.
- Layer Ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the raw chicken breasts flat in the bottom of the crock pot for even cooking. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes on top of the chicken.
- Add Liquids: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth carefully over the added ingredients, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Add the crushed tomatoes at this point as well.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crock pot, mixing it evenly with the soup base.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan. If a thicker soup is desired, dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of cold water and add it now.
- Simmer to Thicken: Cook the soup uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop richer flavors.
- Season to Taste: Finally, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
- The cornstarch is optional and helps thicken the soup if a creamier consistency is preferred.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control salt levels.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
