Introduction
Welcome to a cozy night in with this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup! Imagine a rich, creamy soup that fills your home with a comforting aroma as it simmers away. This recipe is the ideal weeknight dinner, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and heartwarming. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the indulgence of cream and Parmesan, each spoonful is a burst of flavor that will transport you straight to comfort food heaven.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3/4 cup pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
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
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Sprinkle in the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots, followed by the dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is perfectly tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it using two forks right in the slow cooker and stir it back into the soup, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Add the pasta and give everything a thorough stir to combine.
- Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and delicious.
- Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes before serving this comforting masterpiece.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick of flavor, you can add red pepper flakes when stirring in the cream and cheese. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread for dipping. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days; just be sure to add a little extra broth when reheating, as the pasta will absorb some liquid.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of the slow cooker, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender as it simmers in the flavorful broth. Shredding the chicken right in the pot helps to infuse the soup with its rich taste. Be sure to adjust your cooking time based on your slow cooker model, as some may cook faster than others.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker, but it may extend the cooking time by an hour or so. Just ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use milk; however, the soup may be less creamy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Perfectly easy to make and endlessly comforting, it’s a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. So, gather your family around the table and enjoy a hearty dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around!