Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a super cozy soup that brings the tasty chicken parm into a creamy bowl . It's packed with soft chicken , real parmesan cheese , аnd herbs . You just set it аnd forget it , then come home to a warm supper everyone will like .
This soup stands out because it's so simple for busy familуs . In the morning you put all the stuff in the Crock Pot аnd go to work or school . Later you just scoop it up аnd eat . No more rushing to cook after practice or meetings .
Using a Crock Pot has more perks than just saving time . Slow cook lets flаvors mix good , so the soup taste deeper than if you rushed it . Also , the low heat makes meat tender аnd veggies just right . It’s easy for almost anyone , even if you’re not a cooking pro .
Section 1: Understanding the Basics of Crock Pot Cooking
A Crock Pot, also called a slow cooker , is a pot that sits in a heating base . It uses low heat to cook food slowly over hours . That way you dont need to watch it all the time , and food turns out juicy and tasty .
Slow cooking in a Crock Pot save time аnd stress . In the morning you chop ingredients , turn it on , and leave . While you're at work or school , it cooks . By dinner time , the flavors have blended well . Tougher meat chunks become soft and shreddable , so you dont need expensive cuts . It's great for familys on a budget .
Besides time saving , it also makes meal planning easy and lowers cooking stress . You can make soups , stews , or casseroles without stand by the stove . The Crock Pot is a must-have if you want healthy homecooked food without a lot of fuss .
Section 2: Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Here are the main items you need for a yummy creamy chicken parm soup :
- Chicken: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs so you can shred it easily .
- Broth: Chicken or veggie broth makes the soup taste rich .
- Cream Cheese: Gives the soup its creamy texture .
- Parmesan: Grated real parmesan adds that classic parm flavor .
- Garlic & Onion: They add a nice savory base .
- Herbs: Basil and oregano work best for the Italian vibe .
- Veggies: Carrots and celery add color and crunch .
You can also add :
- Spinach or Kale: for more vitamins .
- Red Pepper Flakes: if you like a little spice .
- Tortellini or Pasta: to make it more filling .
Section 3: Cooking Methods
When cooking this soup , slow cooking is the main way , but you have other options too .
3.1 Slow Cooking Method
Put everything in the Crock Pot on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours . The chicken will be tender and the broth full of herb taste .
3.2 Alternative Cooking Methods
If youre in a big rush , you can cook it on the stove or use an Instant Pot . On the stove , first sauté onion and garlic , then add chicken and broth and simmer till the chicken is done . Stir in the cream cheese and parmesan and it’s ready . In an Instant Pot , brown the ingredients then pressure cook for about 15 minutes . Both ways save time and still taste great .
Section 4: Detailed Recipe for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
4.1 Ingredients List
- 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs , boneless skinless
- 4 cups chicken or veggie broth
- 8 oz cream cheese , softened
- 1 cup grated parmesan
- 1 medium onion , chopped
- 4 garlic cloves , minced
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 carrots , diced
- 2 celery stalks , diced
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 cups spinach or kale
- Optional: red pepper flakes
- Optional: 1 cup tortellini or pasta
4.2 Directions
1. Put chicken in the bottom of the Crock Pot .
2. Add broth , onions , garlic , carrots , celery , basil , oregano , salt , and pepper .
3. Cover and cook on low 6–8 hrs or high 3–4 hrs .
4. 30 min before its done , shred the chicken with forks and stir back in .
5. Mix in cream cheese until smooth , then add parmesan .
6. If you want , stir in greens and pasta , cook another 30 min .
7. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed , then serve warm with extra parmesan .
4.3 Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients for best taste .
- Dont skip herbs ; they really matter .
- Season well at the start and adjust at the end .
- If soup is too thick , add more broth .
- Store leftovers in fridge for up to 3 days or freeze longer .
Section 5: Nutrition Information
5.1 Calories and Macronutrients
Each bowl is about 400 calories with around 25g protein , 20g fat , and 30g carbs . These numbers can change if you add pasta or extra cheese .
5.2 Health Considerations
This soup is not only tasty but good for you . Chicken gives you protein , veggies give you vitamins . Adding spinach or kale boosts vitamins A , C , and K . To make it dairy-free , use cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of cream cheese and parmesan . Use low-sodium broth for less salt .
Section 6: Pairing Suggestions
6.1 Best Sides to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread with butter and garlic goes perfect .
- Salad: A simple green or Caesar salad is a cool side .
6.2 Beverage Pairings
- Wine: Try a light white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc .
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or iced tea is nice .
Section 7: FAQs
7.1 Common Questions About Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes , but cook longer so it reaches a safe temperature . Low for 8 hrs or high for 4 hrs .
How do I store leftovers?
Put it in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months . Cool it first .
Can I make it dairy-free?
You sure can ! Use dairy-free cream cheese and parmesan substitutes like nutritional yeast .
What if it's too thick?
Just stir in more broth or water till it's the right thickness .
How do I add more flavor?
Add more herbs or spices . A splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving helps too .
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without the hassle . It's easy to make , tastes great , and everyone will ask for seconds .
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Equipment
- 1 Crock Pot slow cooker
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Large mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained 14.5 oz or 400 g
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked pasta shells optional
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Spread the diced onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes over the mixture in the crock pot.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir briefly to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
- After 6 hours, carefully shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the soup.
- Cube the softened cream cheese and add it to the pot along with the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined and creamy.
- If using pasta, add the uncooked pasta shells to the soup. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
