Slow-Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup: A Comforting Twist on an Italian Classic

Introduction

When you think of Chicken Parmesan, crispy breaded chicken smothered in marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese comes to mind. Now, imagine transforming those rich, comforting flavors into a hearty, slow-cooked soup that’s perfect for any season. This Slow-Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup delivers everything you love about the classic Italian dish in a warm, spoonable form—without the fuss of frying or baking.

Packed with tender shredded chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, Italian herbs, and plenty of Parmesan cheese, this soup is a deliciously simple way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, making it an easy, hands-off dinner that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

If you’re a fan of comforting soups, set your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a bowl of Italian-inspired goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how you can make this irresistible dish right in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

To create the perfect Slow-Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup, you’ll need:

For the Soup:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for depth of flavor)

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or small shells)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty garlic bread (optional, but highly recommended!)

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Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will allow the meat to absorb the rich flavors of the broth and tomato base as it slowly cooks to perfection.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

Next, pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes. Stir in the onion, garlic, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, Italian seasoning, and balsamic vinegar. Give everything a gentle stir to ensure the seasonings are well distributed.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fork-tender and easily shred apart when done.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. The tender meat will soak up the flavorful broth, making every spoonful extra delicious.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Pasta

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Then, add the cooked pasta, stirring well to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top and serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for the ultimate Italian comfort meal.

this PIN FOR LATER

Tips for the Best Slow-Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup

1. Use Quality Ingredients

• High-quality crushed tomatoes make a huge difference in flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great option.
• Freshly grated Parmesan provides a richer taste compared to pre-shredded varieties.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

• If you love a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• For a milder version, leave them out completely.

3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

• To prevent mushy pasta, cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Alternatively, add uncooked small pasta during the last 30 minutes of slow cooking for a firmer texture.

4. Make it Creamier

• For an extra creamy version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

5. Store and Reheat Like a Pro

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: This soup freezes well! Just leave out the pasta and add it when reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Effortless: Let the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. ✅ Rich Italian Flavors: Tastes like Chicken Parmesan, but in a spoonable, cozy soup form. ✅ Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. ✅ Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, hearty soup.

Common Questions About Chicken Parmesan Soup

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and richness to the soup.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Rotini, fusilli, small shells, or even orzo work well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti.

3. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release and proceed with shredding the chicken and adding the cheese.

4. How do I make this soup low-carb?

Swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce the carbs.

5. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes! If you’re short on time, substitute 2 cups of marinara sauce for the crushed tomatoes.

6. Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or skip the pasta altogether.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Of course! Spinach, kale, or bell peppers would be great additions.

8. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a similar salty, nutty flavor.

9. Can I cook this soup on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?

Yes! Simmer everything for about 45 minutes on the stovetop, then shred the chicken and add the cheese.

10. How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Slow-Cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings all the rich, cheesy, and savory flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a warm, satisfying bowl. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekends.

Make this soup today and treat yourself to a delicious Italian-inspired dish that will become a household favorite!

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