Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

  1. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan cheese.
  2. Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs.

Step 2: Assemble the Soup Base

  1. In your Crock Pot, layer the ingredients:
    • Place the chicken at the bottom of the pot.
    • Add the chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, marinara sauce, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid.

Step 3: Slow Cook

  1. Cover the Crock Pot with the lid and cook:
    • On low for 6-8 hours, or
    • On high for 3-4 hours.
  2. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred by the end of cooking.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

  1. Remove the cooked chicken from the Crock Pot and place it on a cutting board.
  2. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Return the shredded chicken to the Crock Pot and stir it into the soup.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Component

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour (or cornstarch) until smooth.
  2. Slowly stir the cream mixture into the soup. This will help thicken the soup and make it creamy.
  3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese (if using), stirring until melted and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Optional Additions

  1. If desired, stir in cooked pasta, gnocchi, or chopped spinach/kale. Let these ingredients heat through for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

  1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Garnish: Top each bowl with fresh basil or parsley, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper.
  2. Side Dish: Serve with crusty garlic bread, homemade croutons, or a side salad for a complete meal.
  3. For Extra Texture: Add crunchy Parmesan crisps as a topping.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese ensures a creamier soup.
  2. Customize the Protein: Swap chicken for turkey or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
  3. Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken the soup if needed.
  4. Make It Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  5. Freezing Tip: To freeze, omit the cream and cheese. Add these ingredients when reheating for the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: The Crock Pot does all the work, giving you tender, flavorful chicken and a perfectly melded soup base.
  • Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious, indulgent texture.
  • Customizable: Add pasta, veggies, or extra spices to suit your family’s preferences.
  • Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a warm and satisfying meal that brings the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan into a hearty, comforting soup. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and simple preparation, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it disappear from the table! Try this recipe today and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness in every bite.