
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting, hearty twist on the classic Italian dish, transformed into a cozy, spoonable meal. Packed with tender shredded chicken, pasta, tomatoes, and rich Italian herbs, this slow-cooked soup captures the flavors of Chicken Parmesan in every bite.
A blend of melted Parmesan and mozzarella adds creamy depth, while the crockpot makes preparation effortless—just set it and forget it. Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days, this soup is a family favorite that’s both satisfying and simple.
Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, warming meal that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did!
This hearty and flavorful Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is everything you love about classic Chicken Parmesan—tender chicken, tangy marinara, and cheesy goodness—transformed into a comforting, slow-cooked soup. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
CROCKPOT CHICKEN PARMESAN SOUP
Description
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that blends the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a warm, slow-cooked soup.
Made with tender shredded chicken, crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, garlic, and pasta, it's finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy, satisfying touch.
This easy-to-make crockpot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, delivering rich Italian flavor with minimal effort. Simply set it and forget it—then enjoy a bowl full of comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. If you’re using fresh herbs instead of dried, wait to add them at the end of the cooking time for maximum flavor.
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Assemble in the Crockpot
In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the following:
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Chicken (place whole breasts or thighs in)
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Crushed tomatoes
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Diced tomatoes (with juice)
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Chopped onion
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Minced garlic
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Chicken broth
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Dried basil, oregano, thyme
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Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using
Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients. Make sure the chicken is submerged in the liquid.
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Slow Cook
Cover and cook on:
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Low for 6–7 hours
OR -
High for 3–4 hours
The chicken should be fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
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Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
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Add Pasta and Cheese
Add the uncooked pasta directly into the soup. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional heavy cream for a creamy texture. Cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
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Final Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add extra salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
Right before serving, top the soup with shredded mozzarella and allow it to melt slightly. You can also melt the cheese under a broiler if your slow cooker insert is oven-safe, or simply sprinkle mozzarella on each serving bowl.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 80mg27%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 32g64%
- Calcium 200 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup – Tips & Serving Tricks
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a comforting, hearty, and easy-to-make meal that transforms a classic Italian dish into a rich, slow-cooked soup. Below are expert tips for preparation, as well as serving tricks to make your soup unforgettable.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
1. Choose the Right Chicken
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this soup. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful after long cooking, but breasts work well for a leaner option. Cook whole, then shred toward the end for the perfect texture.
2. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional)
Though not required, browning the chicken and/or garlic and onions before adding them to the crockpot adds extra depth. This step caramelizes sugars and enhances the umami of the soup.
3. Use Quality Crushed Tomatoes
Your tomato base matters. Go for San Marzano or fire-roasted crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor. Avoid overly acidic or watery canned tomatoes.
4. Don’t Add Pasta Too Soon
Pasta (orzo, ditalini, or small shells work best) should be added 30 minutes before serving to prevent it from getting mushy. If reheating leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it as needed.
5. Finish with Fresh Parmesan & Basil
Always grate your own Parmesan cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Fresh basil added at the end lifts the flavor and adds a hint of brightness to balance the rich base.
6. Stir in Cream Last
If your recipe includes cream or half-and-half for richness, add it in the last 10–15 minutes of cooking to avoid curdling.
7. Adjust Thickness to Your Liking
If the soup is too thin, remove the lid and cook on HIGH for the last 30 minutes. If it’s too thick, add more broth or a splash of milk before serving.
Serving Tricks to Make It Special
1. Serve in Bread Bowls
For a rustic, cozy touch, hollow out sourdough or Italian rolls and serve the soup inside. The crusty bread absorbs the soup and adds a chewy texture to each bite.
2. Create a Parmesan Crust Topping
Take a slice of baguette or toast, sprinkle with Parmesan, and broil until crispy. Float it on top of the soup like a crouton for crunch and flavor—similar to French onion soup style.
3. Pair with a Simple Side Salad
Balance the richness of the soup with a fresh arugula or Caesar salad. The acidity from vinaigrette or lemon cuts through the creamy base perfectly.
4. Add a Drizzle of Basil Pesto
A small spoonful of pesto on top before serving adds color, herby aroma, and an extra layer of flavor. Great for presentation and taste.
5. Top with Mozzarella or Provolone
Melt mozzarella or provolone cheese over each bowl in the broiler for a chicken parmesan effect. Use oven-safe bowls and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
6. Garnish with Crushed Red Pepper & Herbs
For a spicy kick, offer crushed red pepper flakes. Finish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, colorful touch.
7. Serve Family-Style
Let guests ladle their own soup and top it their way. Offer small bowls of shredded cheese, pesto, toasted breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs so everyone can customize their bowl.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Sprinkle each bowl with additional Parmesan and freshly chopped basil or parsley.
- Sides: Serve with warm garlic bread, crusty baguette, or croutons.
- For a crisp Chicken Parmesan experience: Add crispy breaded chicken cutlets on top for a fun twist.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The soup will thicken as it sits, especially with the pasta.
Freezer: For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta (it can become mushy). Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup.
Tips and Variations
- Make it low-carb: Skip the pasta and add chopped zucchini or riced cauliflower near the end of cooking.
- Add veggies: Spinach, kale, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.
- Cheese lovers: Stir in extra Parmesan or top with provolone slices for a richer taste.
- Creamy version: For an ultra-creamy soup, blend in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set-it-and-forget-it: Perfect for busy days when you want a warm, home-cooked meal without standing over the stove.
- All the flavor, less mess: You get the delicious essence of Chicken Parmesan without the breading or frying.
- Family-approved: A great way to sneak in vegetables and feed a crowd.
Enjoy your cozy bowl of Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup—it’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for any season, but especially comforting in fall and winter!
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is a weeknight hero: easy, forgiving, and full of flavor. With a few smart tips and some creative serving ideas, you can turn this humble dish into something that tastes (and looks) restaurant-quality. Whether you’re feeding your family or serving guests, it’s a guaranteed hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of chicken works best in this soup?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and remain tender after long, slow cooking. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken added toward the end of cooking for a shortcut version.
Can I cook the pasta in the crockpot with the soup?
Yes, but with care. Add dry pasta during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking on high, or it can become mushy. Alternatively, cook the pasta separately and stir it into the soup just before serving to maintain the ideal texture.
What type of cheese is used, and when should it be added?
This soup uses shredded Parmesan cheese for the signature flavor and often a bit of mozzarella for creaminess. Stir the cheeses in during the last 10 minutes of cooking so they melt smoothly without separating. Garnish each bowl with extra cheese for a classic Chicken Parmesan feel.
Can the soup be made ahead or frozen?
Absolutely! Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup is great for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, avoid adding pasta until reheating to prevent it from becoming overly soft.