If you are craving an irresistibly comforting soup that combines all the beloved flavors of a classic Italian dish, you are in for a treat with this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe. Imagine tender, slow-cooked chicken melding with rich cream cheese, tangy Parmesan, and a touch of herbs, all swirling alongside perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy, tomato-infused broth. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, yet it’s so simple to prepare, it almost feels like cheating. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or want an easy dinner that feels special, this soup checks every box and will quickly become your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the magic that is this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe, you only need a handful of essential ingredients. Each element plays a vital role—fresh herbs add aroma, cheese brings depth and creaminess, and pasta provides that satisfying bite. These humble ingredients come together brilliantly, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The heart of the soup and your main source of protein, for tender, juicy bites.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked slowly.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a punch of savory aroma and warmth.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice: Introduces vibrant acidity and body to the broth.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a subtle herbal sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian seasoning to deepen flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy note.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of heat in their soup.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star cheese that lends nutty, salty richness.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed: Ensures silky creaminess and smooth texture.
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream: Adds lusciousness and balances acidity.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite): Creates comforting substance and heartiness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, bright garnish to finish.
- Extra Parmesan for serving: Sprinkle generously for an extra cheesy kick.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Base Ingredients
Start by adding your chicken breasts to the bottom of the Crock Pot. Then, pile on the diced onion, minced garlic, and canned tomatoes with their juices. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Give everything a gentle stir to distribute the herbs and spices, but don’t worry about mixing the chicken all around—you want it to cook in the broth and absorb all those flavors slowly.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Put the lid on and cook the mixture on low heat for about 6 to 7 hours, or if time is tighter, set it to high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender and soak up all the fragrant seasoning, making it easy to shred and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the slow cooking is done, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the Crock Pot to mingle with the broth.
Step 4: Add Creamy Ingredients and Pasta
Now for the creamy transformation: stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, and half-and-half or heavy cream. Next, add the uncooked pasta, stirring gently but thoroughly to combine everything. Cover again and let it cook on high heat for another 20 to 30 minutes until the pasta is tender and the soup has reached that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 5: Final Stir and Serve
Give the soup a good stir to make sure the cheese is fully melted and everything is evenly mixed. Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The comforting aroma alone will make everyone eager to dig in.
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a nice brightness to the rich soup, but don’t stop there. Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top to enhance that cheesy flavor, or add a few torn basil leaves for a fragrant twist. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a subtle richness and sheen.
Side Dishes
This soup stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread elevates the meal perfectly. A side of roasted vegetables brings a delightful textural contrast, while a slice of toasted focaccia invites you to dunk and soak up every last creamy drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun, family-style presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls—this adds a rustic charm and extra comfort factor. You can also ladle the soup over cooked pasta or rice on individual plates for a deconstructed approach. Finally, layering the soup with a sprinkle of mozzarella and broiling briefly creates a bubbly, golden crust that mimics classic chicken Parmesan toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe into airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors will actually intensify after resting overnight, making your next meal just as delightful, if not more. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for batch cooking. Be sure to leave out the pasta if planning to freeze, or cook it separately to avoid mushiness. Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months to enjoy a quick, cozy meal anytime you want.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first for even heating. Add cooked pasta at serving time if you omitted it from freezing to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook a bit faster than breasts.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the cream cheese and half-and-half for dairy-free cream cheese and coconut milk or almond milk creamers. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly but still delicious!
What pasta type works best for this soup?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or small shells work best because they hold up well in the soup without getting too mushy.
Can I prepare this soup in an Instant Pot instead of a Crock Pot?
You can! Use the sauté function to cook the onions and garlic first, then add the rest of the ingredients and pressure cook for about 12 minutes. Finish by shredding the chicken and adding cheeses and pasta, then use the sauté function again until creamy.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to taste when layering your ingredients. Fresh jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili powder can also add a nice kick.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a soup that warms not just your body but your soul, and this Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe does exactly that. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and creamy texture, it feels like a labor-intensive dish that actually comes together with ease in your slow cooker. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on your own, this recipe promises satisfaction with every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own comforting memories around the table.
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Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful herbs, and creamy cheeses with pasta for a satisfying meal. Slow-cooked to perfection, it melds the flavors of classic chicken parmesan in a rich, warming soup that’s perfect for any day when you crave something delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
Pasta and Garnish
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: In a Crock Pot, add the chicken breasts, diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Slow Cook the Soup Base: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the Crock Pot and shred them using two forks until the pieces are bite-sized and tender. Return the shredded chicken back to the Crock Pot.
- Add Cream and Pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, and half-and-half or heavy cream into the soup. Then add the uncooked pasta and stir to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Cook Pasta: Cover and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the soup has become creamy and rich in texture.
- Serve: Stir the soup well before serving. Ladle into bowls and top each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, omit the pasta or substitute with cooked cauliflower florets to keep it lighter.
- To prevent pasta from becoming mushy in leftovers, cook pasta separately and add to individual servings when reheating.
- You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- For a spicier kick, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter soup or heavy cream for extra richness.
