Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this soup will become your new favorite comfort food. Plus, the crockpot method ensures minimal effort in preparing a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken, tomatoes, and spices creates a hearty soup that’s full of taste.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside garlic bread or salad for a complete dinner.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its cheesy appeal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers easily for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This is essential for slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over hours.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes chopping garlic and shredding chicken quick and easy.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for cutting ingredients without mess or damage to countertops.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 3 chicken breasts without bone
• 28 ounce can of pressed tomatoes
• 15 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup of freshly grated parmesan

For Texture and Topping

• 1/2 cup of bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• 1 and 1/2 cups of grated mozzarella
• 8 ounces of raw rotini pasta

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In your crockpot, combine the chicken broth, chicken breasts, pressed tomatoes, chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir gently to mix all ingredients well.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

Put the cover on your crockpot. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours on high or 6 to 8 hours on low. This slow cooking method allows all flavors to develop fully.

Step 3: Shred Chicken and Add Cream

Once cooked, take out the chicken breasts from the pot. Shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot along with heavy whipping cream, rotini pasta, and grated parmesan. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Final Cooking Phase

Cover again and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes or on low for about 30 minutes. This step helps the pasta cook perfectly while absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Prepare Breadcrumbs

For extra crunchiness, sear your breadcrumbs in a pan with a bit of butter until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with crispy breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese before diving in! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup!

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Serving Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family.

Classic Presentation

• Bowl it up: Serve the soup in deep bowls, ensuring each portion has a generous amount of chicken and pasta.
• Garnish with cheese: Top each bowl with extra grated mozzarella for a melty finish.

Crunchy Topping

• Sear breadcrumbs: Sauté breadcrumbs in butter until golden brown for an added crunch.
• Sprinkle generously: Add a handful of crispy breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Pair with Freshness

• Chopped herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to enhance flavor and color.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness to the dish.

Accompaniments

• Serve with crusty bread: Offer slices of warm baguette or ciabatta for dipping.
• Salad on the side: A simple green salad pairs well, balancing the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Perfecting your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; don’t hesitate to add more salt or Italian seasoning if needed.
• Cook pasta separately: For a firmer texture, cook rotini separately and add just before serving.
• Let it simmer longer: If time allows, simmer on low for extended periods to deepen flavors.
• Experiment with cheese: Try blending different cheeses like provolone or fontina for unique tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors and provides satisfying crunch.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and vibrant side.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition to your meal.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice and spices offer a hearty alternative that pairs well with the soup’s creaminess.

6. Homemade Focaccia
   This soft, flavorful bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, enhancing every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is easy, but it’s essential to avoid a few common errors for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season properly can lead to bland soup. Always add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors.
• Not shredding the chicken – Leaving the chicken whole affects the texture. After cooking, shred the chicken for a more enjoyable consistency in your soup.
• Ignoring cooking times – Cooking for too short or too long can ruin your dish. Follow the recommended cooking times closely to ensure perfect results.
• Using low-quality ingredients – Cheap ingredients can compromise flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible.
• Forgetting to toast breadcrumbs – Uncooked breadcrumbs can be chewy and unappetizing. Lightly toast them in butter for added crunch and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers to store soup.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until hot throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup that might help you.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully cooked before shredding.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?

You could use coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

How spicy is this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup?

This recipe is mild but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?

If your soup turns out thinner than desired, consider adding more pasta or using a cornstarch slurry to thicken it up.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. It’s versatile enough that you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!