Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap your hands around and savor on a chilly evening, and this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, creamy texture and the delightful burst of flavors from tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s like having your favorite chicken parmesan but in a cozy, heartwarming soup form. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you! Just set it and forget it, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that beckons you to the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (e.g., rotini or elbows)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the hearty foundation of your soup.
- On top of the chicken, add in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it all a gentle stir to combine the flavors.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. It’s going to be super tender!
- Return the shredded chicken back into the soup, stirring it to distribute evenly.
- Now, stir in the uncooked pasta, cover the pot, and let it cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender.
- Finish by stirring in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and wonderfully combined.
- Serve your soup hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes along with the seasonings. You can also swap out the pasta for a gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish. If you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated—if they ever last that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is all about the slow-cooking technique, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully over hours. By cooking the chicken in broth with herbs, it becomes incredibly tender and infused with flavor. Shredding the chicken before adding the pasta helps ensure every bite is packed with that delicious chicken taste. Plus, melting the cheese in at the end creates that delightful richness that makes each bite feel a bit like a warm hug.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time slightly if starting with frozen chicken.
What if I want to make this soup vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a savory vegetarian option.
Can leftovers be frozen?
Absolutely! Just store in an airtight container; thaw and reheat when you’re ready for a cozy meal.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish promises to satisfy and delight. So grab your crockpot, gather the ingredients, and let this delicious soup become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire!