There’s just something so incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, isn’t there? It wraps you up like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. That’s why I absolutely adore this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup. It’s not just any soup; it’s a rich and hearty blend of tender chicken, creamy goodness, and that irresistible kick of Parmesan cheese. Plus, using a crock pot means I can set it and forget it while I tackle my busy day. Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen, ready to serve! Trust me, this soup fits perfectly into a hectic lifestyle while delivering a satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. You’re going to love it!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key for making this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup absolutely delicious! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of the show, providing juicy, tender pieces that shred beautifully once cooked.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the saltiness. This is the flavorful base of the soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This adds that luscious creaminess we all crave in a comforting soup.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated works best for maximum flavor, but pre-grated will do in a pinch!
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: They add a nice touch of acidity and a beautiful color to the soup.
- 1 cup chopped carrots: For a bit of sweetness and texture; they also boost the nutrition!
- 1 cup chopped celery: This adds a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: A must for that aromatic base; it really enhances the overall taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better, right? It brings a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs will elevate the soup to new heights!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go to get the seasoning just right.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: It adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a cozy, creamy bowl of bliss! Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go, and let’s dive into the cooking process next!
How to Prepare Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup is as easy as pie, or should I say…as easy as soup? Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, place the 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crock pot. It’s like giving them their cozy little home for the day!
- Next, pour in 4 cups chicken broth. This is where all the flavors will come together, so be generous!
- Now, add the 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup chopped celery, 1 onion (diced), and 2 cloves minced garlic. Just toss them all in there; it’ll look colorful and inviting!
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to mix those flavors together.
- Cover your crock pot and let it work its magic on low for 6-8 hours. Just think of all the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen while you go about your day!
- Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it and shred it with two forks. It should fall apart easily—yum!
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This is where the creaminess happens, and it’s oh-so-good!
- Cover again and let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. And voilà, you’re ready to enjoy your delightful soup!
See? It’s that simple! You’ll have a warm, creamy bowl of comfort waiting for you with minimal effort. Now, let’s move on to why you’re going to love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup isn’t just easy to make; it’s packed with benefits that will have you coming back for more. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:
- Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days!
- Hearty Flavors: The combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and savory Parmesan creates a flavor explosion that’s truly comforting.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Who doesn’t love less mess?
- Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Feel free to toss in some spinach or swap out veggies!
- Family-Friendly: This soup is sure to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to those who love bold flavors.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it only gets better as it sits!
Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become a go-to recipe you’ll want to share with friends and family. Now, let’s dive into some tips for making it even better!
Tips for Success
To make sure your crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips and tricks for you! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate the flavor of your soup:
- Don’t rush the cooking: Letting the soup cook on low for the full 6-8 hours allows the flavors to develop beautifully. If you try to speed it up by cooking on high, the chicken might not become as tender.
- Shred the chicken well: When you remove the chicken to shred it, make sure to get nice, bite-sized pieces. This helps distribute the chicken throughout the soup, ensuring every spoonful is packed with flavor.
- Use fresh herbs: If you can, toss in some fresh basil or parsley at the end instead of relying solely on dried herbs. Fresh herbs give a vibrant flavor that can’t be beat!
- Season gradually: Always start with a little salt and pepper, and adjust to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away if you overdo it!
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to switch out or add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even bell peppers. Just remember that heartier veggies like carrots and celery will hold up better during long cooking times.
- Thicken if needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just stir it in and let it thicken up!
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon: A splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick that balances the creaminess.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this cozy soup! Just remember to enjoy the process and make it your own. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your food is super important, especially when you want to enjoy delicious dishes like this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup! Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’ll find in each hearty bowl:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Fat: About 30g
- Saturated Fat: Roughly 18g
- Carbohydrates: Around 12g
- Fiber: Approximately 2g
- Protein: About 30g
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg
- Sugar: About 3g
- Cholesterol: Roughly 120mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. If you adjust any components, like opting for low-fat cream, those numbers will change a bit. But overall, this soup is a great source of protein and comfort! Enjoy every nourishing spoonful!
Frequently Asked Questions
I know you might have some questions about making this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup, so let’s tackle a few common ones together!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can throw frozen chicken breasts straight into the crock pot. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so, and check that the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it cool down first before sealing it up!
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the soup may not be as creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk for a delicious twist!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in some spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just remember that softer veggies may cook down more, so add them in the last couple of hours to keep some texture.
Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident in making this delicious soup. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup is super simple, and you’ll definitely want to save any extras for those busy days ahead!
First, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it well to keep all that creamy goodness intact!
If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave a little space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, you have a couple of options! You can warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you’re short on time, the microwave works well too—just heat it in short increments, stirring in between to ensure even warming. If it looks a little thick upon reheating, feel free to stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to get it back to that lovely creamy consistency!
And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to keep your soup delicious and ready to enjoy whenever you need a comforting bowl of warmth.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup, the right accompaniments can really elevate the meal experience! Here are some delightful ideas to serve alongside this comforting dish:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is a must! It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and soaking up all that delicious flavor. Think sourdough or a hearty baguette—yum!
- Garlic Bread: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve some buttery garlic bread on the side. The garlicky goodness complements the soup perfectly!
- Side Salad: A fresh salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup. Go for a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for more robust flavors.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: If you’re feeling fancy, whip up some cheesy garlic biscuits. They’re fluffy, buttery, and pair wonderfully with the creamy soup.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve some lightly steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. They add color and nutrition to your meal!
- Homemade Croutons: Top your soup with some crispy homemade croutons for added texture. Just toss some bread cubes with olive oil and seasoning, then bake until golden!
These serving suggestions will not only enhance your dining experience but also make it feel like a complete and satisfying meal. So grab your bread, salad, or whichever sides you choose, and dig into that comforting bowl of soup!
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Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup for Cozy Days
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup is a hearty and comforting dish. It combines tender chicken, rich cream, and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup