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If you are craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender chicken breasts cooked low and slow with rich crushed tomatoes, savory Italian seasoning, and creamy Parmesan, all simmered together into one luscious soup. With pasta cooked directly in the broth and topped off with melty mozzarella and crispy buttery bread crumbs, this is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in a wonderfully hearty, sip-worthy form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe relies on simple, familiar ingredients that come together magically to create rich flavors and satisfying textures. Each component has its purpose, from the tangy tomatoes to the creamy cheeses and perfectly cooked rotini pasta, making the soup taste like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
- 3 boneless chicken breasts: The heart of the dish, providing tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the Italian goodness.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Adds a fragrant punch that elevates the soup’s savory depth.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Offers a robust, slightly sweet tomato base that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Thickens the broth and amplifies the rich tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the natural tastes of the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warming spice.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs like oregano and basil that give it that classic Chicken Parmesan character.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The soup’s base liquid, which melds everything together into a harmonious whole.
- 1 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese: Gives the soup its signature cheesy, sharp flavor and creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds luxurious richness and smooth texture to the broth.
- 8 oz rotini pasta (uncooked): Brings delightful bite and heartiness right into the soup itself.
- ½ cup bread crumbs: Used to create a crispy topping that mimics that satisfying crunch from a traditional Chicken Parmesan crust.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Makes the bread crumbs golden and flavorful when toasted.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding gooey, cheesy decadence.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by placing the chicken breasts, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth right into your crockpot. Give everything a good stir so all the flavors get nicely acquainted. This step sets the foundation for the rich, savory soup you’re about to enjoy.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and let the magic happen—cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred effortlessly. This slow cooking lets all the flavors deepen and meld, creating the signature taste of the Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once your chicken breasts are tender, shred them directly in the crockpot using two forks. This not only saves you a dish, but also allows the shredded chicken to soak up all that delicious tomato broth, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Step 4: Add Cheese, Cream, and Pasta
Stir in the freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, heavy whipping cream, and uncooked rotini pasta. Replace the lid and continue cooking on low for 30 minutes or on high for 15 minutes, until the pasta is perfectly tender but still slightly firm to the bite. This creamy, cheesy addition gives the soup an indulgent texture and unbeatable flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Crispy Bread Crumbs
While the pasta cooks, place the bread crumbs and butter in a small pan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the bread crumbs turn golden and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes. These crunchy bits will add beautiful texture contrast to your smooth, comforting soup.
Step 6: Serve with Mozzarella and Crispy Topping
Ladle the soup into bowls and generously sprinkle each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and the golden toasted bread crumbs. Watch the cheese melt into gooey perfection while the bread crumbs add that delightful crunch—this finishing touch beautifully captures the essence of classic Chicken Parmesan.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the mozzarella and toasted bread crumbs, fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese make lovely garnishes. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also bring a little extra flair, inviting your guests to customize each bowl just the way they like it.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out small loaves for a rustic, charming presentation. You can also offer a topping bar with extra cheese, fresh herbs, and chili flakes to let everyone personalize their bowls of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe into airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making leftovers just as delicious as freshly made.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months, but keep in mind the cheese and cream may change texture slightly upon thawing. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and help the pasta stay tender. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up while maintaining that luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken breasts, but be prepared to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through completely. Using fresh chicken can help keep the timing consistent.
What pasta can I substitute if I don’t have rotini?
Penne, fusilli, or even small shells work great as substitutes. Just make sure to add uncooked pasta during the last phase of cooking so it finishes perfectly in the broth.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap the heavy whipping cream for a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative, and leave out the Parmesan and mozzarella or replace with dairy-free cheese options to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a large pot on low heat for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until the chicken is tender, then continue with shredding and adding the cheeses and pasta, cooking until the pasta is done.
How spicy is this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe?
This recipe is mild and flavorful, focused on classic Italian herbs and cheeses rather than heat. If you prefer some spice, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe is the perfect blend of comforting, cheesy, and hearty—all in one easy-to-make crockpot dish. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan without any fuss, making weeknight dinners or casual gatherings genuinely special. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
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Crockpot 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 comforting Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup combines the rich flavors of classic chicken parmesan with the ease of slow cooking. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a savory tomato broth with Italian seasoning, garlic, and chicken broth, then enriched with Parmesan, cream, and rotini pasta. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and crispy buttery bread crumbs, this hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz rotini pasta (uncooked)
Toppings
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken breasts, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth to the crockpot. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
- Cook Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot to blend it into the soup base.
- Add Cheese and Pasta: Stir in freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, heavy whipping cream, and uncooked rotini pasta. Cover and continue cooking on low for 30 minutes or high for 15 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Prepare Topping: While the pasta cooks, sauté the bread crumbs in 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of crispy bread crumbs for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute rotini pasta with any small pasta shape such as penne or elbow macaroni.
- For a lower calorie version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free bread crumbs.
