Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker) is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting classic in an easy-to-make format. This soup brings the rich flavors of chicken parmesan into a warm bowl perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this slow cooker recipe ensures you get maximum flavor with minimal effort. With its hearty ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation – Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor – Enjoy the delicious combination of tomatoes, spices, and tender chicken.
• Family-Friendly – A comforting dish that even picky eaters will love.
• Versatile Ingredients – Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Perfect for batch cooking; enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker – Allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Chef’s knife – Ensures precise chopping of onions, peppers, and garlic for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Guarantees accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup has all of the flavors of a decadent comfort food classic in an easy slow cooker soup! This family-friendly dinner recipe takes just minutes to prep.

For the Soup Base

• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1/2 medium white onion (chopped)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1/2 pound raw boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth (plus additional if needed)

For Flavoring

• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For Adding Texture

• 4 ounces uncooked dry gemelli or penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a 5-quart or larger slow cooker, combine:
1. Minced garlic
2. Chopped bell pepper
3. Chopped onion
4. Crushed tomatoes
5. Raw chicken breasts
6. Low sodium chicken broth
7. Shredded Parmesan cheese
8. Chopped basil
9. Oregano
10. Kosher salt
11. Ground black pepper
12. Red pepper flakes

Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 2: Set Cooking Time

Cook on low for 7-1/2 hours or on high for 3-1/2 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board:
1. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Finish Cooking

Stir in the uncooked pasta:
1. Set the slow cooker to high.
2. Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes or until pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency and Serve

If desired, stir in unsalted butter for extra richness:
1. If soup becomes too thick after adding pasta, gradually stir in additional broth or water until reaching your preferred consistency.
2. Warm through before serving.

Garnish with extra shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will make your meal even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor and bright color to the dish.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley gives an earthy taste and enhances presentation.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices: Serve warm baguette slices for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread pairs beautifully and complements the Italian flavors.

Add Extra Cheese

• Shredded Parmesan: Offering extra Parmesan cheese at the table allows guests to customize their soup to their liking.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can be added on top for an extra cheesy experience.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette can refresh the palate.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

Making the perfect Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a more aromatic flavor profile.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low for extended periods allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much, add additional broth or water until reaching your desired consistency.
• Pasta Timing: Add pasta towards the end of cooking to ensure it remains al dente and doesn’t become mushy.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper during cooking for a personalized flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time; just reheat before serving for convenience.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

Completing your meal with delicious side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the Italian flavors well.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color, texture, and nutrition to your meal.
4. Risotto Cakes: Creamy risotto turned into crispy cakes provide a delightful twist on traditional sides.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, veggies, or chicken offer a hearty addition to your table.
6. Antipasto Platter: An array of cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides variety and excitement before the main course.
7. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries are not only tasty but also add an interesting texture alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can make a big difference in the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted vegetables can affect the soup’s flavor. Always choose fresh produce for the best taste.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly for a flavorful experience.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too much can prevent proper cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate, leading to evenly cooked ingredients.
• Not shredding chicken properly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can result in uneven texture. Shred it finely before returning it to the soup for a better consistency.
• Forgetting pasta cooking time: Adding pasta too early can make it mushy. Stir it in during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking for perfect al dente texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with the date; it will last up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)?

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of chicken parmesan in a delicious soup form, made effortlessly in a slow cooker.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While gemelli or penne works best, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli.

How do I customize my Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)?

You can add more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist!

Is this soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrients from veggies, making it both nourishing and satisfying.

How do I ensure my soup doesn’t get too thick?

If your soup becomes too thick after adding pasta, simply stir in additional broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is not only easy to prepare but also offers incredible flavor that can please anyone at your dinner table. With its versatility, you can customize it with different vegetables or herbs—making it a family favorite you’ll want to enjoy again and again!

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