Name: Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 390 min
Total time: 405 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 28 oz cans crushed tomatoes; 15 oz cans Tomato Sauce; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 2 tsp Italian Seasoning; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup parmesan cheese ((freshly shaved)); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 8 oz rotini pasta ((uncooked)); ½ cup bread crumbs; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 ½ cup Shredded Mozzarella

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

If you're searching for a comforting and delectable meal, look no further than Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup. This dish captures the essence of your favorite Chicken Parmesan while transforming it into a warm and hearty soup, perfect for any busy weeknight. The best part? It practically cooks itself!

Why Choose a Crockpot Recipe?

Opting for a crockpot recipe is a game changer for young professionals juggling busy lives. Imagine coming home after a long day to a delicious, steaming bowl of soup waiting for you. That's the reality with a crockpot! Not only does it save time with minimal hands-on cooking, but it also allows the flavors to blend beautifully over several hours.

Crockpots are incredibly versatile and can handle all types of ingredients. Plus, you'll reduce kitchen cleanup since all the cooking happens in one pot. If you're short on time, this is the perfect solution.

By investing a little effort upfront, you can enjoy homemade meals every day without sacrificing precious downtime. Whether you're serving up this savory soup to a group of friends or savoring it solo, it’s an easy way to bring a touch of Italian comfort to your table.

For tips on using your crockpot effectively, check out these expert recommendations.

Get ready to uncover the full recipe for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup – your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Creating your delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup starts with gathering a handful of wholesome ingredients—each one plays a key role in building that rich, comforting flavor you crave. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

3 boneless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing protein and a hearty base.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Because who can resist that aromatic flavor?
1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz): For that classic Italian richness.
1 can tomato sauce (15 oz): Adds depth and balances the acidity of the crushed tomatoes.
1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing the dish to life.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A mixture that elevates the taste and adds authenticity.
4 cups chicken broth: This is what transforms your ingredients into a soul-warming soup.
1 cup freshly shaved parmesan cheese: Don’t skimp on this—it's the key to that luscious creaminess.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and a velvety texture.
8 oz rotini pasta (uncooked): Perfect for soaking in all that flavor.

For the topping:

½ cup bread crumbs and 1 tablespoon butter: To give that satisfying crunch.
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella: Because cheese makes everything better!

These simple yet flavorful components will come together in the crockpot, giving you a cozy, delicious bowl of soup that’s perfect for those busy weeknights. Don’t forget to check out fresh chicken options at your local farmers market or grocery store for the best quality!

Preparing Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience and comfort of a hearty soup made in the crockpot. Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful twist on a classic dish, infusing the flavors of chicken parmesan into a warm and filling soup. Ready to dive in? Let’s walk through the steps together!

Gather your ingredients

Before you start, it's essential to have everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s a breakdown of the delicious ingredients you'll require:

3 boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup freshly shaved parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 oz uncooked rotini pasta

For the topping, don’t forget:

½ cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon butter
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella

Having all these ingredients ready will streamline your cooking process and minimize any last-minute grocery runs!

Layer the base in the crockpot

Once you’ve gathered everything, it’s time to create the base of your crockpot chicken parmesan soup. Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. This flavorful base will provide an incredible depth to the soup.

Don't be shy about stirring everything together a bit. This ensures all those delicious flavors meld well while the chicken cooks to juicy perfection.

Set the cook time and forget about it!

Next, cover the crockpot with its lid and set the cook time. You can go low and slow for 6-8 hours or get dinner on the table more quickly by cooking on high for 3-4 hours. But here’s the beauty of using a crockpot: once it’s set, you can forget about it! Use this time to unwind or tackle other activities, knowing a delicious dinner awaits.

Stir in the creamy elements

Once the cooking time is complete, it's time for a little magic! Shred the chicken using two forks right in the crockpot. This step ensures the chicken absorbs all the flavors. Stir in the parmesan cheese, heavy whipping cream, and your uncooked rotini pasta. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, or on high for 15. During this time, the pasta will become perfectly tender and absorb all the delicious creamy goodness.

Prepare the delicious topping

While your crockpot chicken parmesan soup is finishing up, it's time to prepare the scrumptious topping. Sauté the breadcrumbs in melted butter in a saucepan on the stovetop until they are golden brown and toasty. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch to the dish, reminiscent of the crispy topping on traditional chicken parmesan.

Once your soup is ready, serve it up in bowls and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and your buttery breadcrumbs. Enjoy a heartwarming bowl that’s packed with flavor, simplicity, and that nostalgic touch of chicken parmesan!

Variations on Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles

If you’re looking to cut carbs, this crockpot chicken parmesan soup can easily be adapted with zucchini noodles. Simply spiralize fresh zucchini and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Not only does this add a beautiful color to your soup, but it also gives you that satisfying pasta texture without the extra carbs. You’ll love how light and delicious it feels, making it a great option for those busy weeknights!

Vegetarian Alternative to Chicken Parmesan Soup

For a hearty vegetarian version, consider swapping the chicken for chickpeas or lentils. Keeping the beloved flavors of the original, use the same crushed tomatoes and spices, just omit the chicken broth and replace it with vegetable broth for a rich base. Top it off with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for that classic profile, making this a wonderful plant-based alternative that everyone will enjoy.

Cooking Tips for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Creating the delightful crockpot chicken parmesan soup is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Frozen chicken can work too, but thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
Sauté Garlic: For an aromatic touch, sauté your minced garlic in a splash of olive oil before adding it to the crockpot. This step enhances the overall flavor.
Add Fresh Herbs: If available, consider tossing in some fresh basil or oregano for an extra burst of Italian taste.
Cook the Pasta Separately: Cooking rotini pasta separately keeps it from becoming mushy. Add it to each bowl just before serving.

Check out resources like Food Network for more tips on preparing delicious soups! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Transform your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup into a delightful meal with these serving suggestions!

Topping Variations

Cheese Extravaganza: Sprinkle additional mozzarella or freshly grated parmesan on top for a cheesy finish.
Herb Infusion: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley really elevates the flavors.

Accompaniments

Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread complements the soup beautifully. Consider trying a quick homemade version!
Salad Side: Serve with a simple arugula salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Meal Prep Tip

Plan ahead by making extra Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup for leftovers! It stores well in an airtight container for up to five days, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Preparation Time

Getting started with your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients. Just enough time for a quick kitchen dance party!

Cooking Time

Once everything is in the crockpot, sit back and relax while it simmers for around 6 hours and 30 minutes on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day or a weekend comfort meal!

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes from prep to serving. Just think of it as allowing your taste buds to get excited in anticipation of a hearty, delicious meal! For an in-depth look at more cooking times, check out this guide on slow cooking temperatures.

This breakdown makes it super simple to plan your cooking session. Enjoy the ease that comes with making Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup!

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

When you're craving a comforting meal, our Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs in some great nutrition. Here's a quick breakdown to help you enjoy every delicious bowl guilt-free!

Calories

A serving of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup contains approximately 350 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

Each delightful bowl is loaded with protein, featuring around 25 grams per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain muscle or simply power through their day.

Carbohydrates

With roughly 30 grams of carbohydrates, this soup strikes a satisfying balance, offering energy without weighing you down—perfect for a busy lifestyle.

By keeping track of these nutritional facts, you can savor your meal while feeling good about your choices. For a deeper dive into nutrition, check out sources like NutritionData or USDA FoodData Central for more insights!

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken breasts is a convenient option for making crockpot chicken parmesan soup. Just make sure to increase the cooking time slightly—about 10-15 minutes extra on low or high. The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken ends up juicy and tender, even from frozen!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for lighter alternatives to heavy cream, consider using half-and-half, coconut milk, or even a combination of milk and cornstarch to achieve that creamy consistency. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly, but they can still create a delicious soup!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Place your crockpot chicken parmesan soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your meal prep!

Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

In summary, Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is an easy, satisfying way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines simple ingredients and minimal effort. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings to elevate each bowl—your taste buds will thank you!