Introduction:
This Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delicious, hearty dish that brings together all the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in a cozy, easy-to-make soup. It’s loaded with tender chicken, pasta, tomatoes, and Italian herbs, then topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan for the perfect cheesy finish. This slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal without a lot of effort.
Ingredients and Quantities:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Tips for Success:
- Use bone-in chicken: For extra flavor, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs, removing the bones after cooking and shredding the chicken.
- Cook pasta separately: To prevent mushy pasta, cook it separately and stir it into the soup right before serving.
- Cheesy topping: Add extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese just before serving for a truly cheesy, comforting experience.
How to Make and Instructions:
- Prepare the base: Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper into the crock pot. Stir to combine.
- Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot, shred them with two forks, and return them to the crock pot.
- Cook the pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Add cheese: Stir the cooked pasta into the soup, then add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with extra Parmesan and mozzarella, if desired.
Description:
This Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup has all the flavors of a traditional Chicken Parmesan, with a rich tomato broth, tender chicken, and a cheesy finish. The combination of Italian herbs and melted cheese makes it a perfect comfort food, while the pasta adds heartiness to the soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 4g
Conclusion and Recommendation:
If you love Chicken Parmesan but want a simpler, more comforting meal, this Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Soup is the answer. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just top it with plenty of cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience!