This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup is one of those recipes that quietly becomes a household favorite. It has all the nostalgic flavor of classic Chicken Parmesan but transformed into a warming, velvety soup that practically cooks itself. I love making this on days when I need something hearty but don’t have time to hover in the kitchen. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing the chicken to become tender while the broth turns luxuriously creamy. When I first tested this recipe, I swapped regular milk for almond milk just to see what would happen, and it turned out beautifully, proving this soup is far more flexible than it looks. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or spoon it over freshly cooked pasta, it delivers the richness and savory depth of a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
Print
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich, comforting Crock Pot creamy chicken Parmesan soup made with tender chicken, tomatoes, herbs, and plenty of Parmesan for a silky, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 8 oz cooked pasta (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts, marinara sauce, chicken broth, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the Crock Pot.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
- Add spinach (if using) and allow it to wilt for 5–10 minutes.
- Serve hot as-is or ladled over cooked pasta.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, reduce broth by 1 cup or add additional cheese.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine.
- Use rotisserie chicken to speed up prep—add in the last 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup blends classic Italian comfort with modern slow-cooker simplicity. You’ll love how hands-off the process is and how satisfying the final result tastes. It’s freezer-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts
These provide a lean, tender base that becomes easily shreddable after slow cooking. The long, gentle simmer allows the chicken to absorb all the savory garlic, tomato, and herb flavors.
Chicken broth
This creates the foundational body of the soup. A high-quality broth gives depth and enhances the overall richness as the flavors meld for hours.
Crushed tomatoes
They contribute acidity and classic Italian character. As they cook, they break down even further, becoming part of the smooth, flavorful broth.
Garlic
Aromatic and essential, garlic infuses the soup with warmth and savory sharpness. It lifts the richness and ties together all other ingredients.
Italian seasoning
This blend delivers balanced notes of basil, oregano, and thyme. It creates that unmistakable Chicken Parmesan flavor profile.
Salt and pepper
These simple seasonings allow each ingredient to shine. Adjust to taste once the soup has finished cooking.
Heavy cream
This is what turns a tomato-based broth into a velvety, luxurious soup. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter finish.
Parmesan cheese
As it melts into the soup, it deepens the savory flavor and adds classic Parmesan richness. Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best result.
Pasta or tortellini (optional)
If you choose to add pasta directly into the soup, it transforms the dish into something even heartier.
Fresh basil
Added at the end, basil brightens the soup and adds a pop of freshness against the creamy base.
Directions
Start by placing the chicken breasts into the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and can easily be shredded later. Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, then stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and fully infused with flavor. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return it to the slow cooker. Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt and create a smooth, creamy texture. If adding pasta, stir it in now and continue cooking until the pasta reaches your preferred softness. Finish by adjusting the seasoning and stirring in fresh basil. Serve hot, ideally with toasted bread or additional Parmesan.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens. To freeze, omit any added pasta. Freeze for up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Lightened-Up Version
Use half-and-half or a milk alternative such as almond milk. I’ve tried this with almond milk, and it worked surprisingly well while keeping the soup creamy.
Spicy Chicken Parmesan Soup
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno for heat.
Vegetable-Loaded Variation
Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for extra texture and nutrition.
Herb-Forward Variation
Increase the basil or add fresh parsley and thyme for a brighter herbal flavor.
Three-Cheese Upgrade
Stir in mozzarella and provolone alongside Parmesan for a richer, more decadent finish.
Tomato-Heavy Version
Double the crushed tomatoes for a tangier, more robust tomato profile.
Pesto Stir-In
A spoonful of basil pesto added before serving enhances fragrance and depth.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta or omit pasta entirely and serve with gluten-free bread.
Low-Carb Version
Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles added at the end.
Protein Boost
Stir in cannellini beans for added heartiness and extra protein.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work and result in an even richer flavor.
Can I cook this recipe on high heat the whole time?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 3–4 hours.
Will the soup thicken as it cools?
Yes, due to the cream and Parmesan content.
Can I add pasta at the beginning?
No, it will overcook. Add it only during the last 20 minutes.
Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?
Mozzarella or provolone work but won’t add the same sharp flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk or almond milk and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Does this freeze well?
Yes, but freeze without pasta to avoid mushiness.
Can I use pre-cooked shredded chicken?
Yes, add it during the final hour of cooking.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
You may, but the soup will be less smooth unless blended.
How do I prevent curdling when adding cream?
Add the cream at the end and avoid boiling the soup after it’s added.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup offers all the charm of classic Italian comfort food with the convenience of slow-cooker preparation. Its creamy texture, deep savory notes, and customizable nature make it a reliable addition to your dinner rotation. Whether you prepare it as written or adapt it using the variations above, it’s guaranteed to deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!