Crockpot meals are beloved for their ease, allowing busy cooks to create hearty dishes with minimal hands-on time. One such dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of Italian flair to the table is Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup. This soup captures the essence of classic Chicken Parmesan, merging tangy tomato flavors, tender chicken, and melted cheeses into a rich, savory broth.
The slow-cooking process melds the flavors together, producing a delicious, hearty soup that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings with friends. With just a few minutes of preparation, the crockpot handles the work, making this recipe ideal for anyone who craves a flavorful, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. By dinnertime, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup that’s both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for cool evenings or anytime you need a cozy meal.
Ingredients Overview
To create this comforting Chicken Parmesan Soup, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients and pantry staples, each contributing to the dish’s depth and Italian-inspired flavor profile:
- Chicken Breasts: This lean protein is the soup’s base, providing both substance and flavor. Slow-cooking tenderizes the chicken, making it easy to shred and infuse throughout the soup.
- Garlic: Known for its aromatic, savory quality, garlic deepens the flavor, adding an essential layer of warmth and richness.
- Canned Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: These create the soup’s Italian-inspired, tangy tomato base, reminiscent of traditional Chicken Parmesan sauce.
- Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper: Italian seasoning, alongside salt and pepper, enhances the dish’s flavor, adding an earthy, herbaceous layer.
- Chicken Broth: A rich, savory foundation that ties all the ingredients together, boosting the soup’s depth and warmth.
- Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheeses: These cheeses add creamy texture and rich flavor, with Parmesan melted into the soup and mozzarella used for topping.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds a luscious, velvety texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making the soup creamy and indulgent.
- Rotini Pasta: Adds heartiness to the soup, creating a well-rounded, filling dish.
- Topping Ingredients (Breadcrumbs and Butter): Toasted breadcrumbs, finished in butter, add a delightful crunch, complementing the creamy soup with a crispy finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
To begin, gather all the ingredients for the soup base. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot—layering the protein at the base helps infuse it with flavor as it cooks. Next, add the garlic, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. These tomato-based ingredients form a robust foundation, bringing depth and an Italian-inspired tang to the soup.
Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, which typically includes herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, lending an authentic Italian flavor profile. Season with salt and pepper to taste, which helps enhance the flavor of each ingredient as it slowly cooks. Finally, pour in the chicken broth, which adds richness and ensures all ingredients meld together.
For the crockpot settings, you have two options based on your schedule:
- High Setting: Cook for 3-4 hours for a quicker meal.
- Low Setting: For maximum flavor, cook for 6-8 hours.
Both settings will allow the chicken to tenderize, but cooking on low provides a richer flavor as the ingredients have more time to infuse. Avoid stirring at this stage to allow the flavors to layer naturally, and ensure the chicken remains submerged in the broth for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook Until Chicken is Tender
While cooking, periodically check the chicken’s tenderness. If using the high setting, expect the chicken to be fully cooked after 3-4 hours. For the low setting, it should be ready in about 6-8 hours. The chicken is done when it easily pulls apart with a fork, signaling that it has reached the desired tenderness for shredding.
You’ll notice that the broth becomes fragrant, with the garlic and Italian seasonings blending into the tomato base. This stage is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor profile, so avoid opening the lid too often, as it releases heat and can extend cooking time. When the chicken is tender, move on to the next step to add texture and finish the soup.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, use tongs to carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Shredding the chicken allows it to absorb more of the soup’s flavors, making each spoonful rich and flavorful.
After shredding, return the chicken to the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the broth, distributing it evenly throughout the soup. This step also allows the chicken to reheat quickly if it’s cooled during shredding. Shredding creates a hearty texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta and cream that will be added next.
Step 4: Add Cream, Pasta, and Parmesan
With the chicken shredded and added back to the crockpot, it’s time to add the final ingredients for a creamy, filling soup. First, pour in the heavy whipping cream. This addition will balance the acidity of the tomatoes and create a velvety, rich texture. Stir gently to incorporate the cream throughout the broth.
Next, add the uncooked rotini pasta. The rotini’s spiral shape holds onto the soup’s flavors, making each bite extra satisfying. Because the pasta is added uncooked, it will soften as it absorbs the flavors from the broth and cream. For best results, cook the pasta in the crockpot on high for an additional 15 minutes or on low for 30 minutes, or until al dente.
Finally, add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the soup. Parmesan adds depth and an unmistakable savory note, creating a rich, cohesive base that complements the cream and tomatoes. Monitor the pasta for doneness, and once it’s tender, proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
While the pasta is finishing in the crockpot, prepare the crispy topping. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble. Add the breadcrumbs, stirring frequently to coat them evenly in the butter. Continue stirring as they toast, watching for a golden-brown color.
This process takes just a few minutes, so keep an eye on the pan to prevent burning. Stir constantly to ensure even browning, and remove the skillet from heat as soon as the breadcrumbs reach a toasty, nutty aroma and golden hue. This toasted topping adds a satisfying crunch to the creamy soup, enhancing the texture and flavor with every bite.
Let the breadcrumbs cool slightly, then transfer them to a small dish for serving. Set aside to sprinkle on each bowl of soup as a final, crispy touch.
Step 6: Serving and Presentation
To serve, ladle the soup into individual bowls, making sure each serving includes plenty of pasta, chicken, and broth for a well-rounded experience. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs, adding that desired crunch and texture.
For an extra touch, sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top of the breadcrumbs. The cheese will begin to melt slightly from the heat of the soup, creating a gooey, cheesy finish reminiscent of traditional Chicken Parmesan. This presentation not only looks appealing but also adds a final layer of flavor and indulgence.
For garnish, consider a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley, which add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this cozy, Italian-inspired dish with family or friends.
FAQs Section
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with other pasta shapes, but it’s best to use short pasta that holds its shape well, such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni. Avoid using delicate pastas like angel hair or spaghetti, as they may become too soft and break apart. Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type, as some may cook faster than rotini. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta and check it periodically to ensure it doesn’t overcook, as gluten-free pasta tends to soften quickly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the pasta absorbs too much broth and the soup seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it may cause the cream to separate.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut milk or almond milk. Be aware that these substitutes may slightly alter the flavor and texture, with coconut milk adding a subtle sweetness. For the cheeses, use dairy-free Parmesan and mozzarella alternatives or omit them if desired. The soup will still be flavorful, though not as creamy.
4. What if I don’t have a crockpot?
If you don’t have a crockpot, you can prepare this soup on the stovetop. Use a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ingredients, and cook over medium-low heat until the chicken is tender (about 1.5-2 hours). Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and add the cream, pasta, and Parmesan, cooking until the pasta is al dente. This method requires more attention than a crockpot but yields similar results.
5. Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?
Yes, adding extra vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup. Popular additions include spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots. Add hearty vegetables like carrots and bell peppers at the beginning with the soup base, while softer vegetables like spinach can be added in the final 10-15 minutes of cooking. These additions bring color and extra nutrients to the dish without overpowering the original flavors.
6. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken as a shortcut. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it in step 4 when you add the cream, pasta, and Parmesan. This method reduces the cooking time, as you won’t need to wait for raw chicken to cook and shred.
7. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of extra broth if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid. The flavors often deepen over time, making the soup even more delicious the next day.
8. How can I thicken or thin the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, use a bit less broth, or add extra cheese or cream at the end. For a thinner consistency, add additional chicken broth or water until you reach your desired thickness. Adding extra broth while reheating can also help adjust the texture if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid during storage.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. The bread is perfect for dipping, and a fresh salad provides a nice balance to the creamy soup. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
10. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but for best results, it’s recommended to freeze it before adding the cream and pasta. Dairy and pasta can change texture when frozen and reheated. If you plan to freeze it, prepare the soup through step 3, then let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge, reheat on the stovetop, and then add the cream, pasta, and Parmesan, cooking until the pasta is tender.
11. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with other proteins like turkey or even ground beef. If using ground beef, brown it before adding it to the crockpot. Turkey breast works similarly to chicken, providing a mild flavor and tender texture. Adjust cooking times as needed depending on the protein you use.
12. Is this soup spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy. If you prefer a hint of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup base. Adjust the amount to suit your taste, keeping in mind that it’s best to start with a small amount and add more as desired.
13. How can I make this soup healthier?
To lighten up this soup, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap it with a lower-fat dairy alternative. Using a whole-wheat or high-fiber pasta can add extra nutrients. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like spinach, kale, or diced zucchini to increase fiber and vitamins without significantly altering the flavor.
Print
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 8 minutes
Description
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delicious, creamy take on classic Chicken Parmesan. It’s full of tender shredded chicken, rich tomato flavors, rotini pasta, and a touch of creaminess, finished with crispy breadcrumb and melty mozzarella toppings.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (uncooked)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Soup Base: In the crockpot, add chicken broth, chicken breasts, crushed tomatoes, chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper.
2️⃣ Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
3️⃣ Shred Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
4️⃣ Add Cream, Pasta, and Parmesan: Pour in the heavy cream, uncooked rotini pasta, and grated Parmesan. Stir to combine. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes on high or 30 minutes on low until the pasta is al dente.
5️⃣ Prepare Topping: While the soup finishes cooking, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and toast, stirring often, until golden and crispy.
6️⃣ Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, then top each serving with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs and grated mozzarella cheese.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of balsamic vinegar for a richer tomato flavor.
- Pasta Options: Substitute rotini with penne or bow-tie pasta if desired.
- Topping Variations: Substitute breadcrumbs with croutons or add fresh basil for a garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
