There’s just something magical about coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of a delicious meal that’s been simmering away in the crockpot all day. My absolute favorite is this *crockpot chicken parmesan soup*—it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! I remember the first time I made it for my family; I had a long day, and just wanted something hearty and fulfilling. This soup combines tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and savory cheese, and it all melds together beautifully in the crockpot. The first spoonful is pure comfort, and every bite brings me back to those chilly evenings when nothing feels better than a steaming bowl of goodness. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to on busy days!
Ingredients List
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup penne pasta
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Prepare *Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup*
Getting this *crockpot chicken parmesan soup* ready is a breeze, and I love how hands-off it is! The best part? You can just toss everything in and let the magic happen. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, grab your trusty crockpot and place the 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom. It’s okay if they’re frozen; they’ll thaw out beautifully as they cook!
Next, open up that can of diced tomatoes and pour it over the chicken, followed by the can of tomato sauce and 1 cup of chicken broth. This adds so much flavor and makes the soup rich and hearty.
Now, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste! I like to be generous with the seasonings—this is where the flavor really shines.
Set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours, or if you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours. Just be sure the chicken is cooked through!
Once the chicken is tender, take it out and shred it with two forks. It’s super easy and makes it so much easier to eat!
Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, then add in 1 cup of penne pasta. Give it a good stir to mix everything up.
Now, cook on high for another 30 minutes until the pasta is perfectly tender. Just imagine that bubbling goodness!
Finally, stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy delight. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Nutritional Information
This *crockpot chicken parmesan soup* is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, with 10g of fat, 28g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. It also has 6g of sugar and 3g of fiber, making it a hearty option for any meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but trust me, it’s a wholesome choice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work—perfect for busy days!
Hearty and Flavorful: Each bowl is filled with tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and gooey cheese that’ll warm your heart.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves a comforting bowl of soup!
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or use different pastas for a unique twist every time!
Tips for Success
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Enjoy 6
To make sure your *crockpot chicken parmesan soup* turns out absolutely perfect, here are some pro tips to keep in mind! First, ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you’re using frozen chicken, don’t worry—it’ll cook just fine, but be sure to increase the cooking time slightly if needed.
Also, timing is key when it comes to adding the pasta. Wait until the chicken is shredded and back in the pot before tossing in the penne; this way, it gets perfectly tender without overcooking. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some fresh veggies like spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. And always taste your soup before serving—it’s a great way to adjust the seasoning to your personal preference. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Variations
One of the best things about this *crockpot chicken parmesan soup* is how adaptable it is! Feel free to switch up the pasta—try using farfalle, fusilli, or even zoodles for a low-carb option. If you love veggies, add in some chopped spinach, diced zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. You can also swap out the cheeses; try using provolone for a different flavor or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy kick. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make this soup your own—every bowl will be a unique delight!
Serving Suggestions
This *crockpot chicken parmesan soup* is so hearty and delicious on its own, but serving it with a few tasty sides can elevate your meal even more! I absolutely love pairing it with some crispy garlic bread—there’s just something magical about dipping that warm, buttery goodness into the soup. A fresh salad is another great option; a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup. You could also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for that finishing touch or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a pop of flavor. Enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of your *crockpot chicken parmesan soup* is super easy! Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months—just be sure to label your container with the date!
When it’s time to reheat, you can either warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat or pop it in the microwave. If you’re using the microwave, stir it halfway through to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to bring back that creamy texture. Enjoy your comforting bowl again!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!