Introduction
Warm your soul with this dreamy Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings, this comforting dish combines tender chicken, a medley of fresh vegetables, and the rich flavors of Parmesan and cream. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Just throw everything into the crock pot and let it work its magic, letting you enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home while you’re busy with your day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or rice (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot, allowing them to be the star of this delicious dish.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning along with some salt and pepper over the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery directly into the pot, creating a colorful vegetable base.
- Pour the chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes over the top, finishing off the layering of ingredients.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks, revealing those juicy, tender fibers.
- Return the shredded chicken back into the crock pot, mixing it in well with the broth and vegetables.
- Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the mixture to become rich and creamy.
- Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings if needed, always ensuring it’s just right for your palate.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, and offer cooked pasta or rice on the side if you like a heartier meal.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This soup also freezes well, so make a big batch and enjoy it later! Don’t forget to adjust the consistency with more chicken broth if you like a thinner soup.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on slow cooking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The low and slow method ensures tender chicken and perfectly cooked veggies. If you’re short on time, remember that pressure cooking can be a quick alternative, though the flavors may not develop quite as richly.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure they cook through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a mix of milk and cornstarch can be used. Just know that the soup will be less rich.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any day when you need a little warmth in your life. Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoy the smiles all around. Happy cooking!