There are some meals that feel like pure indulgence, like a crispy, cheesy plate of Chicken Parmesan. But on busy weeknights, I crave those comforting flavors without the breading station and the frying pan. That is where this Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup comes in.
It is essentially your favorite Italian dinner transformed into a spoonable, cozy bowl. You get the savory tomato broth, the tender chicken, the al dente pasta, and of course, the melty cheese. It captures the essence of a classic crockpot chicken parmesan but with zero fuss.
This soup fits perfectly into my rotation of crock pot meals because it is low effort but high reward. It is lighter than the baked version but just as satisfying, making it one of my favorite healthy chicken recipes for chilly nights. If you love the creamy comfort of my crockpot white lasagna soup, you are going to adore this tomato based cousin.
Why This Soup is a Must-Make
I love recipes that take a beloved classic and give it a fun twist. Here is why this one works so well.
First, it is incredibly easy. Just like my crockpot cabbage roll soup, it is mostly hands off cooking. You dump the ingredients in and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
Second, the flavor is robust. By slow cooking the chicken in the marinara sauce, the meat absorbs all that garlicky, herby goodness. It is far more flavorful than a standard crockpot chicken noodle soup.
Finally, it is a crowd pleaser. Kids love the pasta and cheese, and adults appreciate the hearty, comforting vibes. It is a meal that bridges the gap between picky eaters and food lovers.
Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 7 hrs 10 mins
- Yield: 6 Servings
Description
All the flavors of your favorite Italian dinner in a cozy soup! Tender chicken, pasta, and marinara broth topped with melty mozzarella and parmesan cheese. An easy slow cooker meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Base: Place chicken, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred: Remove chicken, shred or chop into bite-sized pieces, and return to the pot.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 20-30 minutes until pasta is al dente. (Stir occasionally to prevent sticking).
- Finish: Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mozzarella on top and cover for 2 minutes until melted.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with fresh basil and garlic croutons if desired.
Notes
Pasta Tip: If you plan to have leftovers, cook the pasta separately on the stove and add it to individual bowls. This prevents the noodles from getting mushy in the fridge.
Creamy Version: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end for a rich tomato cream broth.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini in the beginning for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 7 hrs
- Category: Dinner, Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
The Pantry Staples
To recreate this Italian feast in a bowl, we rely on simple, quality ingredients.
The Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to. They shred easily and stay lean. You could use thighs for a richer flavor, but breasts work perfectly here.
The Sauce
Use your favorite jar of marinara sauce. Since it is the main flavor driver, pick one you really love! We mix it with chicken broth to create the perfect soup consistency.
The Pasta
I prefer using penne or rotini for this soup. The ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully. You cook the pasta right in the slow cooker at the end so it absorbs the flavor without getting mushy.
The Cheese
This is non negotiable. We stir in Parmesan for nuttiness and top it with mozzarella for that classic gooey melt.
The Aromatics
Onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning boost the flavor of the jarred sauce, making it taste homemade.
Slow Simmering: Step-by-Step
Cooking this soup is a breeze. It is the perfect meal for days when you don’t have time to stand over the stove.
Step 1: The Dump
Place your chicken breasts, diced onion, minced garlic, and seasonings into the slow cooker.
Step 2: The Liquid
Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Give it a good stir to combine.
Step 3: The Simmer
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. You want the chicken to be completely tender.
Step 4: Shred and Pasta
Remove the chicken and shred it (or chop it into chunks). Return it to the pot. Stir in the uncooked pasta.
Step 5: The Finish
Cover and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally so the noodles don’t clump together.
Step 6: The Cheesy Top
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle the mozzarella on top and let it sit for a minute until melted. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Customizing Your Bowl
This recipe is super adaptable.
Vegetable Boost
Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or zucchini at the start. Spinach is also a great addition at the end, similar to how I add greens to my crockpot chicken meatball and veggie soup.
Creamy Twist
If you want a pink sauce vibe, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half and half right before serving. It adds a luxurious richness.
Crouton Crunch
Top your bowl with garlic croutons. It mimics the crispy breading of traditional chicken parmesan and adds a lovely texture contrast.
Gluten-Free
Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free noodles. Just watch the cooking time as they can cook faster than wheat pasta.
A Bowl of Italian Comfort
There is no need for a reservation to enjoy the flavors of Italy. This Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen table. It is savory, cheesy, and deeply comforting.
Whether you serve it with a side salad or a big hunk of crusty bread, I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your family dinner.
