When it comes to comfort food, few dishes strike the perfect balance between cozy and crave-worthy like Chicken Parmesan Soup. This slow cooker wonder brings together the soul of classic chicken Parmesan and the heartiness of a rich, tomato-based soup. It’s cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying—perfect for chilly nights, meal prepping for the week, or just when you’re in the mood for something warm and indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
With tender shredded chicken, a touch of spice, and layers of melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this soup delivers everything you love about the original dish—only easier and more spoonable. Whether you serve it with or without pasta, this bowl is destined to become a family favorite.
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Chicken Parmesan Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Bowl
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This slow cooker Chicken Parmesan Soup transforms your favorite Italian-American classic into a cheesy, hearty bowl of comfort. Made with tender shredded chicken, tomatoes, penne pasta, and two kinds of cheese, it’s the perfect cozy meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ large green bell pepper, finely chopped
½ medium white onion, finely chopped
1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
½ pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
3 cups chicken stock, plus more if needed
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
4 ounces dry penne pasta
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large slow cooker, combine the garlic, bell pepper, onion, crushed tomatoes, chicken breast, chicken stock, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
2. Cover and cook on low for about 7½ hours or on high for about 3½ hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
3. Near the end of the cooking time, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, butter (if using), and cooked pasta until everything is well combined and creamy.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth if needed. For a low-carb version, skip the pasta or replace with zucchini noodles.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours 40 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Why Chicken Parmesan Soup Deserves a Spot on Your Table
There’s something undeniably soothing about a bowl of soup, but Chicken Parmesan Soup offers more than just warmth. It captures the rich, bold flavors of the traditional dish—tomato, garlic, herbs, and cheese—but presents them in a way that’s lighter, brothy, and easier to enjoy.
This soup isn’t just about comfort; it’s about nourishment. High in protein, with enough fiber and nutrients from fresh vegetables and tomatoes, it’s a meal that fills you up without weighing you down. For families looking for a reliable dinner option that ticks all the boxes—flavor, texture, and nutrition—this recipe delivers.
Compared to traditional chicken Parmesan, which can be heavy and time-consuming, this soup version is refreshingly simple. It removes the need for breading and frying while keeping all the elements that make the classic dish special. In short, it’s everything you love, with none of the fuss.
The Slow Cooker Secret Behind Perfect Chicken Parmesan Soup
Slow cookers shine when it comes to building flavor slowly and deeply—and that’s exactly why they’re perfect for Chicken Parmesan Soup. From the moment you combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning, your kitchen starts to fill with the aroma of something truly comforting.
The long, gentle simmering process allows the chicken to become fork-tender and infused with all the tomatoey, herby goodness. By the time it’s ready to shred, the chicken has soaked up every ounce of flavor from the broth.
Even better, the slow cooker saves time on your busiest days. You can set it in the morning and come home to dinner ready to be dished out. If you’re someone who loves low-effort, high-reward recipes, this one is for you.
Crafting the Best Chicken Parmesan Soup Recipe
The secret to making the best Chicken Parmesan Soup lies in the ingredients—and every one of them counts. Aromatics like garlic, onion, and green bell pepper lay the flavor foundation, while crushed tomatoes and tomato paste build richness and depth.
Parmesan cheese brings its signature umami punch, melting into the broth to create a creamy, savory base. For an extra layer of decadence, a sprinkle of mozzarella just before serving turns every bowl into something irresistibly cheesy.
Want to take it up a notch? Stir in a little butter for silky richness or increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. This recipe is incredibly adaptable—perfect for tailoring to your family’s tastes.
Chicken Parmesan Soup with or without Pasta
Pasta lovers will adore the addition of al dente penne stirred into the soup just before serving. It adds heartiness and absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully. But if you’re looking to cut back on carbs or prefer a lighter bowl, Chicken Parmesan Soup no pasta is just as delicious.
In fact, going pasta-free lets the cheese and chicken shine even more, giving you a more protein-forward option that still satisfies. You can even substitute with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice if you want something low-carb but still filling.
If you do go the pasta route, penne is ideal—it holds its shape well and has the perfect size and texture for this soup. But don’t be afraid to experiment with fusilli, rotini, or even small shells.
Serving, Storing, and Reheating Tips
Once you ladle this steamy, cheesy goodness into bowls, the real fun begins. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds brightness and color, while extra grated Parmesan or cracked black pepper can elevate each serving.
Leftovers? You’re in luck. This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Be sure to store the pasta separately if you’ve added it, as it can soak up too much liquid over time.
When reheating, warm the soup slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Add a splash of chicken stock to loosen the consistency if needed—especially if it’s been in the fridge overnight.
Related Recipes to Try Next
If this recipe hit the spot, you’ll love exploring more comfort food classics. Cozy up next to a bowl of tomato basil gnocchi soup—a creamy, herb-packed delight that’s perfect for vegetarian nights.
For something heartier with a rustic twist, don’t miss this bold and smoky chicken roasted corn stew. Packed with sweet corn, tender chicken, and deep roasted flavors, it’s another cold-weather winner.
You can also explore other soup recipes that combine pantry staples with craveable ingredients, all designed to warm the soul and simplify your weeknight cooking routine.
FAQs About Chicken Parmesan Soup
What’s the best chicken Parmesan soup recipe?
The best Chicken Parmesan Soup recipe combines boneless chicken breast, crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and two cheeses—Parmesan and mozzarella—for unbeatable flavor. Slow cooking ensures juicy, tender meat and a deeply flavorful broth.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan Soup with no pasta?
Absolutely! Chicken Parmesan Soup is just as delicious without pasta. Skipping the pasta results in a lighter, low-carb option that still delivers the same rich, cheesy flavor.
How long does Chicken Parmesan Soup last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Add it during the last 30 minutes of slow cooking to absorb flavor without overcooking.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan Soup brings together all the elements of a beloved classic—savory tomatoes, melted cheese, and juicy chicken—in a fresh, slurpable format. It’s comfort food reimagined for the modern kitchen, ideal for slow cooker nights, family meals, and warming up cold days.
With just a bit of prep and a handful of ingredients, you can ladle up bowl after bowl of something that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did. Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with your own twists, one thing’s for sure: this soup is going to become a staple in your comfort food lineup.
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