It was a chilly autumn evening, and I couldn’t wait to get home and curl up on the couch with a steaming hot bowl of my famous Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup. There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about this dish – it takes me right back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the aroma of simmering chicken and herbs would fill the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I can still remember the first time she taught me how to make it, patiently guiding me through each step as I eagerly watched, determined to get it just right.
Over the years, I’ve perfected the recipe, experimenting with different flavor combinations and techniques, but the classic Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup has always remained a family favorite. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, with its rich, creamy broth, tender chicken, and the perfect blend of Parmesan and Italian spices. And the best part? It’s all made in the trusty ol’ Crock Pot, so I can just set it and forget it, letting the flavors meld together while I tackle my to-do list or curl up with a good book.
Why This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
What sets this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and the way the ingredients come together to create a truly remarkable dish. The secret lies in the slow-cooking process, which allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and infuse the broth with its savory essence. The addition of Parmesan cheese and a touch of cream takes the soup to the next level, resulting in a velvety, indulgent texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, the blend of Italian seasonings, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes adds a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to making this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe a success is to use high-quality, fresh ingredients. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which will become perfectly tender and juicy after hours of slow cooking. Chicken broth forms the base of the soup, while Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and a touch of cornstarch help create the creamy, luxurious texture. Onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian seasoning add layers of flavor, while a pinch of red pepper flakes provides a subtle kick of heat.
Step-by-Step Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a breeze to make, and the slow-cooking process ensures that the flavors have plenty of time to develop and meld together. With just about 15 minutes of hands-on prep time and a few hours in the Crock Pot, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
1- Start by adding the chicken breasts, chicken broth, onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your Crock Pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.
2- Cover the Crock Pot and let the soup simmer on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
3- Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the Crock Pot and shred it using two forks.
4- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the Crock Pot, along with the shredded chicken and Parmesan cheese.
5- Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
6- Ladle the Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the most tender and flavorful results.
- Don’t be tempted to open the Crock Pot too often, as this can affect the cooking time and result in a watery soup.
- Be patient when adding the heavy cream and cornstarch mixture – stir it in slowly and gently to prevent clumping.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your desired level of spice.
- For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of dry white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the broth.
Serving and Storing Your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Perfect Pairings for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Serve it with a fresh garden salad, warm crusty bread, or steamed broccoli for a complete and satisfying meal. A glass of crisp white wine or a cold, refreshing beer also makes a great companion.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect make-ahead meal, as it actually gets better over time as the flavors continue to meld. Once the soup has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s thickened up too much.
You can also freeze the Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Creative Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Variations
While the classic Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a beloved favorite, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on it. Try swapping out the chicken for shredded turkey or Italian sausage for a different protein twist. You could also add in diced tomatoes, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. For a heartier meal, stir in cooked pasta or serve the soup over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice.
Making Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup more diet-friendly, you can make a few simple substitutions. Use low-fat or skim milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for low-fat or reduced-fat Parmesan cheese. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free broth and skip the cornstarch. To make it vegan, replace the chicken with cubed tofu or mushrooms, and use a plant-based milk and vegan Parmesan alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen chicken will take longer to cook through. I recommend adding an extra 2-3 hours to the cooking time when using frozen chicken.
Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: If you find that your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a bit too thin for your liking, you can easily thicken it up. Simply whisk together an additional 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a splash of cold water or broth, then stir this mixture into the hot soup. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, and the soup should thicken up nicely.
Q: Can I make this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup is the perfect make-ahead meal. Simply follow the recipe instructions, then allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s thickened up too much.
Q: How many people does this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe serve?
A: This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, depending on portion size. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe to have enough for everyone.
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this easy Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup. Bursting with tender chicken, melted parmesan, and a delightful blend of flavors, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. – Place the cubed chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic in a slow cooker.
2. – Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. – During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
5. – Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. – Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
7. – Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the cooked chicken against the side of the slow cooker. This soup also freezes well for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup! With its rich, velvety broth, tender chicken, and the perfect blend of Parmesan and Italian spices, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. The best part? It’s all made in the convenience of your Crock Pot, so you can let the flavors meld together while you tackle your to-do list or relax and unwind.
I hope you’ll give this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe a try. Let me know in the comments how it turns out, and be sure to share your own tips and variations. Enjoy!