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Chicken Parmesan Soup takes the flavors of classic chicken parmesan and transforms them into a hearty soup. The ingredients cook all day in chicken broth, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Once cooked, the chicken is shredded and combined with creamy additions like heavy whipping cream and pasta, topped with parmesan cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Breast: Provides the tender, protein-packed base for the soup.
- Minced Garlic: Adds a robust, savory depth to the broth.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Creates a rich, tomato-based flavor.
- Tomato Sauce: Enhances the soup's smooth, tomato richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Italian Seasoning: Brings classic Italian flavors.
- Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful liquid foundation.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds creamy, cheesy notes to the soup.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth texture.
- Rotini Pasta: Provides a hearty, filling element.
- Bread Crumbs: Adds a crunchy topping when toasted.
- Butter: Used for toasting bread crumbs.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A melty topping for serving.
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Recipe Variations
- Cooked Chicken: Use frozen chicken breasts, boneless thighs, or leftover rotisserie chicken.
- Double the Recipe: Perfect for crowds—serve with salad and breadsticks for a complete meal.
- Seasoning Options: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs or other blends.
- Pasta Choices: Substitute gluten-free or whole wheat pasta, cooked separately to prevent mushiness.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place chicken breasts, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth in the crockpot.
- Step 2:
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Step 3:
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the crockpot.
- Step 4:
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and rotini pasta. Cook until pasta is al dente.
- Step 5:
- Toast bread crumbs in butter on the stovetop for a crunchy topping.
- Step 6:
- Top each bowl with mozzarella cheese, bread crumbs, or your favorite toppings and serve.
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How to Serve
- Garden Salad: Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Cheese Sticks: Serve alongside garlic bread or cheese sticks.
- Steamed Broccoli: A lighter veggie side complements the creamy soup perfectly.
Topping Ideas
- Croutons
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Ricotta
Stove Top Instructions
This soup can also be made on the stove. Cook all ingredients in a large pot until the chicken is done. Add pasta and heavy cream after shredding the chicken, cooking for an additional 20 minutes. Finish with your favorite toppings and serve.
Building Layers of Comfort
I've discovered that letting the chicken cook low and slow creates tender, flavorful meat that shreds beautifully. The tomatoes break down gradually, creating a rich base that gets even better when you stir in the cream and cheese. It's like the soup develops its own personality throughout the day.
The Perfect Balance
The key to this soup's success lies in the balance between the acidic tomatoes and creamy elements. When you add the heavy cream and parmesan, they transform the bright tomato broth into something luxuriously smooth while maintaining those classic Italian flavors.
My Italian mother-in-law taught me that good food brings people together, and this soup proves her right. The first time I served it, my picky nephew asked for seconds - a rare victory that made it an instant family favorite.
Make-Ahead Magic
If you're planning to make this ahead, cook everything except the pasta and cream. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, add the pasta until al dente, then stir in the cream and cheese. This keeps the pasta from becoming too soft.
Perfect Pairings
While this soup is a meal in itself, I love serving it with garlic knots for soaking up every last drop of the broth. A simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a fresh contrast to the richness.
After countless batches of this soup, I've learned that it's more than just a convenient crockpot meal - it's comfort food at its finest. Whether you're feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this Chicken Parmesan Soup delivers all the flavors of the classic dish in a cozy, soul-warming bowl. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato broth, and perfectly cooked pasta creates something truly special that brings people back for seconds every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes! Chicken thighs work great and stay even more tender. Just trim off any excess fat before adding them to the crockpot.
- → What if my soup is too thick?
- Simply stir in some extra warm chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes, but cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating. This prevents it from getting too soft in the leftovers.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
- Freeze the soup without the pasta and cream. Add these fresh when reheating. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
- Half and half works, though the soup won't be quite as rich. You can also use evaporated milk for a lighter option.