Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

The Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup is one of those dishes that instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners during the chilly winter months. I can vividly recall the aroma of simmering flavors wafting through the house, inviting everyone to gather around the table. As a busy parent, I often find solace in the ease of a slow cooker, allowing me to prepare a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it combines the comforting essence of traditional chicken parmesan with the convenience of a soup, perfect for those long, cold evenings.

Every time I make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup, it feels like a warm embrace. The tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich broth infused with tomato sauce and Italian seasoning create a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, I love how the parmesan cheese melts into the soup, adding that creamy texture we all crave. It’s a dish that brings my family together, fostering laughter and shared stories all around the table.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup never fails to impress. I often pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. The beauty of the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup is that it allows me to spend quality time with my loved ones while it cooks away in the background, making it a go-to recipe in my home. There’s something magical about standing in the kitchen, ladling out bowls of this delicious soup, and seeing everyone’s faces light up with joy and satisfaction.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
6 hr 20 mins
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
375 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
32 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free
Fat:
12 g
Tools Used:
6-qt Slow Cooker

Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup Is So Good

Perfect for Any Night

One of the reasons I absolutely adore this Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup is its versatility. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle of extensive preparation. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it! You can come home to a delicious meal waiting for you.

Flavorful and Comforting

The rich flavors of tomato, garlic, and Italian herbs blend beautifully in this soup. Each spoonful is a comforting hug, bringing warmth and satisfaction that only a bowl of soup can provide. It’s the ultimate comfort food!

Great for Leftovers

This soup makes fantastic leftovers! I find that the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge. It’s a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty lunches without any extra cooking.

Family-Friendly

Kids love it! The combination of chicken and cheese in a soup format is a hit with children of all ages. It’s a great way to get them to enjoy their veggies too, as you can easily add more spinach or other greens into the mix.

Customize It

There’s so much room for customization! You can adjust the spices, add your favorite vegetables, or even switch up the pasta type. This flexibility means you can make it your own every time!

Perfect for Entertaining

Hosting a gathering? This soup is a winner! It’s easy to make in large batches and can be served in a big pot for guests to help themselves. Pair it with a side of garlic bread, and you’ve got a fantastic meal!

Ingredients to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

When it comes to the ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious and delicious dish. The star, of course, is the chicken, which becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks all day. The tomato paste, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes create a rich base, while the addition of Italian seasoning brings that authentic flavor.

  • 2 to 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein that gives the soup its heartiness.
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic: Adds a robust flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
  • 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Provides sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its signature flavor.
  • 1 (6-oz) can tomato paste: Thickens the soup and intensifies the tomato flavor.
  • 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce: Adds a smooth texture and richness.
  • 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes: Contributes chunks of juicy tomato for added texture.
  • 2 (14.5-oz) cans chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: A convenient way to add additional flavor and seasoning.
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: For a delicious cheesy finish.
  • 8-oz campanelle pasta: Adds heartiness and makes the soup a complete meal.

Making This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

Cooking the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup is a breeze, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. You’ll love how effortless it is to create a delicious meal with just a few simple steps. Follow along as I guide you through the process, and soon enough, you’ll have a warm and inviting soup ready to enjoy.

  1. Start by placing all the ingredients, except for the pasta, into a 6-qt slow cooker. This includes the chicken breasts, minced garlic, dried onion flakes, and all the tomato products. Stir everything together to combine the flavors well.
  2. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for about 6 to 8 hours. The key here is low and slow, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender. As it cooks, the flavors will meld together beautifully.
  3. After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. It should be tender enough to shred easily. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This is a crucial step to ensure every spoonful is packed with flavor.
  4. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. This is where the magic happens as it absorbs all the delicious broth and seasonings.
  5. Add the parmesan cheese and the uncooked campanelle pasta to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the broth.
  6. Now, cover the slow cooker again and switch it to HIGH for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This will allow the pasta to cook through and become tender.
  7. Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. You want it to be al dente, so check for doneness before serving. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
  8. Once the pasta is cooked, give the soup a good stir. Taste and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Sometimes a pinch more of salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the whole dish.
  9. Finally, ladle the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup into bowls and top with additional grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve it hot and enjoy the cozy warmth of this comforting meal.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding less broth or more tomato paste to reach your desired consistency.
  • Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano towards the end of cooking for an extra flavor boost.
  • Chicken Variations: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer darker meat or want to add a richer flavor.
  • Cooking on Stovetop: If you’re short on time, this recipe can easily be adapted for stovetop cooking. Simply combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair the soup with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips about Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

When it comes to making the best Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup, I’ve compiled a few tips that can really enhance your experience and the overall flavor of the dish.

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
  • Pairing: Serve the soup with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
  • Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality tomato sauce and chicken broth for the best flavor. Look for brands that use natural ingredients.
  • Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, you can reduce the cooking time by using the HIGH setting for the entire duration, but it’s best to cook it on LOW for the most tender results.
  • Ingredient Substitutions: If you have leftovers of other proteins like rotisserie chicken, you can add them in towards the end of the cooking process.

Perfect Pairings for Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

When it comes to serving the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup, there are plenty of delicious accompaniments that can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:

  • Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crunchy garlic bread to dip into the soup, adding a satisfying texture contrast.
  • Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
  • Cheesy Croutons: Top the soup with melted cheese croutons for a delightful twist.
  • Seasonal Vegetables: Consider serving with roasted seasonal vegetables to enhance the heartiness of the meal.
  • Family Gatherings: This soup is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it can easily be made in large batches.
  • Comfort Food for Winter: It’s especially comforting during cold winter months, making it a staple dish for cozy nights in.
  • Easy Weeknight Meals: It’s a fantastic option for easy weeknight meals, allowing for quality family time without the stress of cooking.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup. Just add it directly into the slow cooker without thawing first. However, it’s important to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before serving, so you may need to extend the cooking time slightly.

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Some people also use water with additional seasonings like salt and herbs to mimic the taste of chicken broth. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall taste of the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup.

Leftovers of the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the soup in portions for up to three months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before eating!

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup. Just chop them into small pieces and add them in with the rest of the ingredients to cook.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup is a heartwarming meal that combines the flavors of classic chicken parmesan in a cozy soup format. It’s an easy recipe that fills the belly and warms the soul, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try – your family will love it!

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

The ultimate comfort food, this creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup combines tender chicken, rich tomato flavors, and melted cheese for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, you'll want to make this delicious soup tonight!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 to 3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 6-oz tomato paste
  • 1 8-oz tomato sauce
  • 1 15-oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 14.5-oz cans chicken broth
  • 1 24-oz jar spaghetti sauce
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz campanelle pasta 3 cups uncooked

Equipment

  • 6-qt Slow Cooker

Method
 

  1. Place all ingredients except pasta in a 6-qt slow cooker. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.
  2. Remove chicken from slow cooker and shred with 2 forks. Return shredded chicken to slow cooker.
  3. Add parmesan cheese and pasta. Cook on HIGH for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the pasta is cooked.

Notes

  • Tip 1: I like to use a jar of Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic Marinara or a jar of Rao’s Marinara Sauce. Both are delicious and work great in this soup.
  • Tip 2: Feel free to toss in some spinach too. I think frozen or fresh spinach would be delicious!
  • Tip 3: You can use any shape of pasta that you prefer.
  • Tip 4: Can Chicken Parmesan Soup be made on the stovetop? Sure! Place all the ingredients in a Dutch oven. Cook until the chicken has cooked. Chop the chicken and serve.
  • Tip 5: You can substitute already cooked chicken for the raw chicken if you prefer.
  • Tip 6: A rotisserie chicken works great if making this soup on the stovetop. Dump everything in the pot, bring to a boil, and simmer until warm.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating