Warm Comfort in a Bowl
There’s something heartwarming about a solid soup simmering away in your kitchen. Imagine the day winding down, a chill in the air, and the aroma of herbs and chicken inviting you home. This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup combines all the cozy comfort of traditional chicken parmesan with the ease of a slow cooker, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. My fondest memories of this dish are intertwined with family gatherings where laughter filled the air; it’s impressive yet uncomplicated enough to whip up when you want to enjoy quality time over great food.
Why you’ll love this dish
So, why make this soup? For starters, it’s a labor of love that requires minimal effort on your part. Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic — it’s practically hands-off cooking. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! The ingredients are simple, and you might already have many of them on hand.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile, able to please even the pickiest of eaters. Kids love it, and adults appreciate the comforting flavors that remind them of cherished Italian dinners. It’s perfect as a weeknight family dinner or as a hearty dish for a cozy gathering with friends.
"This soup was a hit at our dinner party! I loved how easy it was, and everyone went back for seconds!" — Sophie, Home Cook
Preparing Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
This soup comes together in just a few straightforward steps, setting you up for success while allowing you to savor the delicious simplicity. It begins with placing the chicken right at the bottom of the slow cooker. From there, the rest of the ingredients are layered in, creating a beautifully savory blend of flavors that meld over time.
You’ll want to make sure you have everything prepped before you start so you can get the cooker going and let it work its wonders. The slow cooking process means you’ll come home to a house filled with enticing aromas, a beckoning invitation to dig in as soon as you walk through the door.
What you’ll need
Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (feel free to use fire-roasted for a smoky twist)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini are great options)
- 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh is best, but frozen works too)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooked pasta or rice (optional for serving)
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute the chicken with turkey breast or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts gently at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the diced tomatoes and marinara sauce.
- Layer in the sliced mushrooms and chopped spinach, then sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours; the chicken will be tender and easily shred with a fork.
- About 15 minutes before serving, use two forks to shred the chicken right into the soup. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for richness.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella and optional cooked pasta or rice.
Best ways to enjoy it
This soup is your canvas; feel free to pair it as you please! A slice of crusty garlic bread is always a welcome companion, perfect for soaking up the delightful broth. You might even serve it with a fresh, vibrant salad to balance out the meal. If you’re planning on making it a complete dinner, add some tortellini or a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition and color on the plate.
How to store
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often the case, given how delicious it is), simply let the soup cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions for up to three months. Just make sure to leave off the garnishes until you’re ready to serve. Always reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra depth of flavor, try sautéing the mushrooms in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This small step enhances their taste, though it’s not necessary.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese! The generous doses of Parmesan and mozzarella elevate the dish, giving it that creamy, indulgent finish you crave.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference — a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a nice kick to the soup.
Creative twists
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, consider experimenting! You could swap in different veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Another fun twist is to add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for an even creamier texture. If you’re looking to spice it up, add some Italian sausage into the mix or even make it a spicy chicken parm soup by incorporating some crushed red pepper.
Common questions
How long does this soup take to prepare?
Preparation time is minimal! Once you assemble the ingredients, it takes just a few minutes to set everything in the crockpot. Cook time is either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken; however, increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure it cooks through thoroughly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen it up as it warms. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Enjoy making your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, and relish every comforting mouthful!
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Start by placing the chicken breasts gently at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the diced tomatoes and marinara sauce.
- Layer in the sliced mushrooms and chopped spinach, then sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours; the chicken will be tender and easily shred with a fork.
- About 15 minutes before serving, use two forks to shred the chicken right into the soup.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for richness.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella and optional cooked pasta or rice.