Introduction to Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
When you think of comfort food, chicken parmesan often comes to mind. But how about turning that classic dish into a warm and hearty soup? Enter this delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup—your new go-to favorite for busy weeknights. It's rich, flavorful, and, best of all, it's made effortlessly in your slow cooker!
Why Choose a Slow Cooker Meal?
So, why opt for a slow cooker meal like this soup? For starters, slow cooking unlocks flavors that you just can’t achieve in a hurry. As ingredients simmer together, they meld beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, with a busy lifestyle, who doesn’t love a meal that you can throw together in just a few minutes and walk away from?
According to a survey by the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, slow cookers can save families an average of 2 hours per week in meal prep time. Imagine what you could do with those extra hours! Whether you’re unwinding after a hectic day or spending quality time with loved ones, this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup gives you the freedom to enjoy your evening without the stress of cooking.
Ready to dive into this flavorful adventure? Let’s get cooking! For more tips on making the most out of your slow cooker, check out this resource for inspiration.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Creating a delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is all about gathering the right ingredients. Let's break them down to ensure you have everything you need for this heartwarming meal!
Essential Ingredients List
To whip up this soup, you’ll need:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ medium white onion, chopped
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- ½ pound raw boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 ounces uncooked dry gemelli or penne pasta
Optional Ingredients for Customization
Feeling creative? Here are some optional ingredients you can add for a personal touch:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness)
- More chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Extra veggies such as carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Explore more about customizing slow cooker recipes here. By using the essential and optional ingredients wisely, you can make this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup uniquely yours!
Step-by-step preparation of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Cooking Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup doesn’t have to be a hassle. With just a bit of prep, you can create a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Let’s break down the steps so you can whip this up with ease!
Gather all ingredients
First things first: gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ medium white onion, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- ½ pound raw boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 ounces uncooked dry gemelli or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Getting everything in one spot saves time later, and it’s much easier to double-check that you have everything you need!
Prepare the vegetables
With your ingredients ready, it’s time to prep the vegetables. Start by peeling and mincing the garlic until it releases that lovely aroma. Then chop the green bell pepper and onion into small, even pieces. Uniform sizes will help them cook more evenly, resulting in a tastier soup. If you enjoy a bit of zing in your soup, consider adding some extra chopped peppers or herbs! For more tips on cutting veggies efficiently, check out this handy guide.
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker
Next, it’s time to combine everything in your slow cooker! Place the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, onion, crushed tomatoes, and chicken breast into the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well combined, then set your slow cooker on low for 7½ hours or high for 3½ hours.
Shred the chicken
Once your timer goes off, take a moment to admire the fragrant goodness bubbling away. Carefully transfer the chicken breast to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, giving everything a good stir to mix the flavors.
Add the pasta and finish the soup
To finish up your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, stir in the uncooked pasta. This step should be done about 20-30 minutes before serving, when the soup is still on high. Mixing in the pasta allows it to cook in the flavorful broth, soaking up all those delicious tastes. If you find your soup gets a bit too thick after this, don’t worry! Simply add a little more broth or water to adjust its consistency.
When serving, consider adding a pat of butter for some extra creaminess and finish it off with more Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs for garnish. Trust us—this topping makes all the difference! Enjoy your cozy bowl of warmth!
Variations on Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Version
To elevate your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup into a rich and creamy delight, simply add a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This addition not only enhances the soup's flavor but also gives it a luxurious texture. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—like mozzarella or fontina—just to mix things up!
Vegetarian Adaptation
For a vegetarian take on this classic, swap out the chicken for hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for added protein. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. This adaptation ensures you don’t miss out on the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan, while keeping it plant-based and delicious.
If you're interested in more cooking ideas or tips, check out resources like EatingWell or The Kitchn for additional inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Ensure the Right Consistency
To achieve the perfect texture in your crockpot chicken parmesan soup, keep an eye on the consistency as it cooks. If it thickens up too much after adding the pasta, simply stir in some additional low-sodium chicken broth or water until you reach your desired thickness. Remember, the soup should be hearty but still pourable!
Prepping Ahead for Busy Days
If you're juggling a packed schedule, try prepping the ingredients the night before. Chop the veggies and shred the chicken in advance, then store them in the fridge. This way, when you’re ready on a busy day, it’s just a simple toss into the slow cooker. Easy-peasy! Making your weeknight dinners smoother is always a win! Check out this guide on meal prep for more ideas.
Serving suggestions for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Pairing with breadsticks
To elevate your dining experience, serve your Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup with warm, buttery breadsticks. The breadsticks are perfect for soaking up that rich, savory broth and will keep your meal feeling hearty and satisfying. You can easily make homemade breadsticks or grab a package from the store. For an extra touch, consider brushing them with garlic butter or sprinkling some Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Adding a side salad
A fresh side salad complements the flavors of your soup beautifully. Opt for a simple mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will balance the richness of the Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup, making for a well-rounded meal. Need some inspiration? Check out this refreshing Mediterranean Salad for a delicious side!
Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Preparation time
Getting ready for this delicious Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup only takes about 20 minutes. Chop your veggies, shred your chicken, and you'll be all set to go!
Cooking time
Once everything is in the slow cooker, let it work its magic for 8 hours on low or 3.5 hours on high. You can go about your day while your soup simmers away!
Total time
In total, you’ll invest 8 hours and 20 minutes from start to finish for this heartwarming soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy all the rich flavors without the fuss!
If you're looking for more slow cooker inspiration, check out this article on 5 Tips for Perfect Slow Cooking to elevate your meal prep skills!
Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
When it comes to hearty meals, Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup delivers on flavor without skimping on nutrition. Here are the key nutritional insights:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 369 calories, making it a satisfying yet mindful choice for lunch or dinner.
Protein
With 29 grams of protein per serving, this soup is a great option for those looking to build muscle or maintain energy throughout the day. It's an excellent source to refuel your body.
Sodium
This recipe includes 1,078 mg of sodium. To keep sodium levels in check, consider opting for low-sodium broth. This small change can make a big difference in your overall daily intake.
For more detailed nutritional information, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or Healthline. These platforms provide a wealth of nutritional knowledge to help you make informed decisions.
FAQs about Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This crockpot chicken parmesan soup freezes wonderfully. After it cools down, store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Just be sure to leave a little space at the top of the containers, as the soup will expand when frozen. You can enjoy it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
How long will this soup last in the fridge?
In the refrigerator, your crockpot chicken parmesan soup will last about 3 to 4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep an eye out for any changes in color or smell, which are signs that it’s time to toss it.
What can I serve with Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup?
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with some crusty garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or even a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can elevate your meal. For more inspiration on sides, check out these delicious pairing ideas. Enjoy your cozy dinner!
Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
In conclusion, this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty meal that captures the essence of your favorite Italian dish. Serve it up with extra cheese and fresh herbs for a truly delightful experience! For additional Italian-inspired recipes, check out resources like Italian Cooking in America.
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup (Slow Cooker)
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- ½ medium white onion chopped
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- ½ pound raw boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth plus additional if needed
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 ounces uncooked dry gemelli or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter optional
Instructions
- In a 5-quart or larger slow cooker, stir together garlic, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, chicken, broth, ½ cup cheese, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook on low 7-½ hours or on high 3-½ hours.
- Transfer chicken to cutting board and use forks to coarsely shred; return to slow cooker. Stir in pasta. Cook on high 20-30 minutes longer or until pasta is cooked al dente.
- Stir in butter, if desired. If soup becomes too thick after pasta is cooked, stir in additional broth or water until desired consistency is reached, and warm through.
- Serve garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley.
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