This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a cozy meal that’s super easy to make! Tender chicken, hearty tomatoes, and savory Parmesan come together for a warm hug in a bowl.
And the best part? You can throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you relax. Just top it with some pasta and more cheese for a real treat! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this soup as they cook tenderly in the crockpot. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless thighs work well too.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have it, but store-bought works perfectly in a pinch. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian touch.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred marinara, or use homemade if you have some. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, check out a roasted red pepper sauce instead!
Cheeses: While mozzarella provides that classic cheesy goodness, feel free to swap in provolone or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. Grated Parmesan adds flavor, but nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for a vegan option.
Cream: Heavy cream gives richness, but you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy option like coconut cream for a different twist.
How Do You Achieve Perfect Flavor in Your Soup?
Building flavor is key! Start by layering the ingredients thoughtfully. When you add garlic and spices, it really amps up the flavor. Make sure you give the chicken time to soak up all the tasty broth and sauce as it cooks. Here’s how:
- Add all your ingredients into the crockpot, but don’t rush. Let it cook on low for 6-7 hours for the best results.
- Shred the chicken once it’s tender—it helps distribute the flavor evenly.
- After adding the cheeses, let the soup sit for a while so everything melds together nicely.
And remember, taste your soup before serving! Adjust any seasonings to suit your preferences for a perfectly seasoned dish.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta (such as small shells or rotini), optional for serving
- Garlic bread or toasted bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then it can either cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours in the crockpot. After the cooking time is done, just a few more minutes are needed to melt the cheese before serving. Perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the marinara sauce. Then, sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Pop the lid on your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender by this point.
3. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully take out the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. It should fall apart easily! Then, return the shredded chicken back into the soup.
4. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now it’s time to make this soup cheesy! Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the heavy cream. Mix well, and don’t forget to taste it! Adjust the seasoning with a bit of salt and pepper as needed.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Cover and let the soup cook on low for another 15-20 minutes so that the cheese can melt beautifully and everything is heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, scoop the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley along with extra Parmesan cheese on top for that delightful finish! For a more filling meal, you can add cooked pasta to each bowl before ladling the soup over. Pair it with garlic bread or toasted bread to complete your cozy dinner!
Enjoy your warm and cheesy Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to cook them on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the usual times. This will ensure they cook through safely.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to mix it up by using provolone, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavors may vary a bit, which can be a fun twist!
