The comforting aroma of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup wafting through a home is enough to make any family eagerly gather around the table. This dish, a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite, has quickly become a staple in my household. The rich blend of flavors, coupled with the simplicity of preparation, makes it a winner in my book. My family, who are often my toughest critics, raved about the creamy texture and the robust taste that seemed to improve with every spoonful. The ease of using a crockpot means I can set it up in the morning, and by dinner time, we have a hearty meal ready to enjoy. It’s a dish that brings warmth to our hearts and smiles to our faces, especially during those chilly evenings.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup of pasta (such as small shells or ditalini)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Begin by setting your crockpot to the sauté setting. Add the olive oil, and once heated, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Following this, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot, then pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the pasta. Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on high until the pasta is tender. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and integrate into the soup. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil for a touch of color and added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Each serving contains about 350 calories, making it a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The soup provides a good source of protein from the chicken and cheese, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and herbs.

Preparation Time

The preparation time for this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is minimal, requiring about 15 minutes of active preparation. This includes gathering and chopping the ingredients before they are added to the crockpot. The cooking process itself is mostly hands-off, with the crockpot doing the bulk of the work over several hours.

How to Serve

• Serve the soup in large bowls to showcase the hearty ingredients.
• Pair it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Add a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Top with extra Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
• Accompany with a glass of your favorite red wine to complete the meal.

Additional Tips

Creating the perfect Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is an art, and these additional tips will help you elevate the dish:

• Tip 1: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Tip 2: If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
• Tip 3: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more robust flavor, as pre-grated cheese can be less flavorful.
• Tip 4: To make the soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or substitute with rice.
• Tip 5: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A1: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor. Ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.

Q2: Can I make this soup in advance?

A2: Absolutely. This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Q3: Is it possible to add vegetables to the soup?

A3: Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the soup.

Q4: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

A4: If the soup is too thin, try adding a slurry of cornstarch and water, or simply let it simmer with the lid off to reduce the liquid.

Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A5: While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a different taste and texture.