Ah, soup—the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug! There’s just something magical about a big bowl of creamy goodness, especially when it’s made in the crockpot. My crockpot creamy chicken parmesan soup is a game-changer; it combines tender chicken, rich parmesan, and a medley of Italian spices that dance on your taste buds. I still remember the first time I made it. I had a long day and wanted something hearty but easy. I tossed everything into the crockpot, set it, and forgot about it until the aroma filled my kitchen, making my mouth water! When I finally sat down with a steaming bowl, it was everything I hoped for and more—creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. Trust me, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – perfect for shredding and soaking up all that creamy goodness!
- 4 cups chicken broth – the flavorful base that brings everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream – this is what makes the soup luxuriously creamy.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – for that irresistible cheesy flavor and richness.
- 1 onion, diced – adds a sweet and savory depth to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic superstar that elevates the flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that gives that classic Italian flair.
- Salt and pepper to taste – don’t skimp on these; they really enhance the flavors!
- 1 cup spinach, chopped – for a pop of color and a healthy boost in every bowl.
- 1 cup pasta, uncooked – I love using small shapes like ditalini or elbows, but use whatever you have on hand!
How to Prepare *Crockpot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup*
Making this crockpot creamy chicken parmesan soup is as easy as it gets! Seriously, you just toss everything in and let the magic happen. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab your trusty crockpot. Place 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom. You want those juicy pieces soaking up all the flavors!
- Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. This is the heart of the soup, so don’t skimp on quality!
- Now, add in 1 diced onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Their aromatic scent will start to fill your kitchen—just wait!
- Sprinkle 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Trust me, these spices are what brings the dish to life!
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Let it work its magic!
- Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, it’s time for some shredding! Carefully remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Now, let’s add the creaminess! Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 cup of chopped spinach, and 1 cup of uncooked pasta. I love using small pasta shapes here!
- Put the lid back on and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and everything is bubbling together beautifully.
And there you have it! A delicious, hearty soup ready to warm your soul.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the chicken to cook fully and become tender. The longer, low-and-slow method really enhances the flavors, so resist the urge to turn up the heat!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion make a world of difference. They really elevate the flavor of your soup, so don’t settle for the pre-minced stuff!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream. Just remember to taste as you go—it’s all about finding that perfect balance!
- Choose the Right Pasta: Small pasta shapes work best because they cook quickly and blend beautifully into the soup. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Each broth can be different in flavor, so taste it before serving and adjust as needed!
- Top It Off: Just before serving, sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top for a delightful finishing touch. It makes the soup even more irresistible!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (1 cup) of my crockpot creamy chicken parmesan soup. It packs a hearty punch while still being comforting:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always good to check if you’re keeping an eye on any dietary needs!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you! Perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss.
- Hearty and Filling: With tender chicken, creamy broth, and pasta, this soup is a complete meal that satisfies your hunger and warms your soul.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of parmesan and Italian spices creates a deliciously creamy and savory flavor that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, whether it’s adding extra veggies or trying a different type of pasta.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s just as delicious the next day!
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients, too!
Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to throw in other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. They add a nice crunch and extra nutrients!
- Protein Swap: If you’re in the mood for something different, try using diced turkey or even sausage for a heartier flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
- Herb Infusion: Switch up the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. They’ll add a vibrant freshness that elevates the dish!
- Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. It’s a fun way to give the soup a little zing!
- Cheesy Variation: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor and creaminess!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover crockpot creamy chicken parmesan soup is super easy! Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy the deliciousness later in the week.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It should last about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For reheating, you can use a saucepan on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If it looks a little thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat it in the microwave; just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters and heat it in intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
And pro tip: if you have any leftover pasta in the soup, it might soak up some of the broth while sitting. Just add a bit more cream or broth when reheating to bring that creamy texture back to life!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. Just be sure to extend the cooking time a bit, about 1–2 hours on low, to ensure it’s cooked through. The slow cooker will work its magic, and you’ll still end up with tender, juicy chicken!
Can I make this soup without cream?
Yes, you can! If you want a lighter version, feel free to substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. Just keep in mind that the soup will be less creamy, but still delicious! You can also add a little more cheese for that rich flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Simply let the soup cool down and transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container. It’s perfect for a quick meal later on!
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! This soup is super versatile. You can add veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just chop them up and toss them in the crockpot with the other ingredients. They’ll cook down beautifully and add extra flavor!
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
For the best results, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens up too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splatters and heat in intervals for even warming!
Crockpot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup: 7 Reasons to Savor
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and creamy soup made with chicken, parmesan, and Italian spices.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup pasta, uncooked
Instructions
- Add chicken, broth, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred it, then return it to the pot.
- Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, spinach, and pasta.
- Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until pasta is tender.
Notes
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less cream.
- Top with additional parmesan before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: crockpot creamy chicken parmesan soup