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This slow cooker chicken parmesan soup brings all the comfort of classic chicken parmesan into a cozy bowl you can ladle up on a chilly night. The hands-off cooking makes it a weeknight hero—just set it and let the flavors develop into something magical. Every time I make this, the kitchen fills with those nostalgic Italian-American aromas that instantly draw my family into the kitchen for a sneak taste.
I whipped this up on a rainy Sunday and it turned my whole afternoon around—the bread topping gives a perfect crunch and everyone ended up asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- Chicken broth: provides a rich base that ties all the flavors together so I suggest using low sodium if you want to control salt
- Crushed tomatoes with basil: bring depth and a touch of sweetness make sure to use one with basil for extra flavor
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: are lean and quick cooking you can swap in thighs for more richness
- Red bell pepper: adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful color pick one that feels heavy and glossy
- Diced onion: builds the savory background look for firm onions with papery skin
- Tomato paste: deepens the tomato flavor go for one without added sugar if you can find it
- Fresh garlic: offers their signature kick use plump cloves for best flavor
- Honey: balances the acidity of the tomatoes it is optional but I think it rounds the soup out
- Italian seasoning: a handy all in one blend for that classic herb flavor
- Dried basil: intensifies the herby notes you can use fresh if you prefer
- Garlic powder and onion powder: boost the savory base and make the soup extra cozy
- Salt and pepper: simple seasoning to enhance everything
- Red pepper flakes: lend gentle heat you can adjust or skip for heat sensitivity
- Orzo pasta: adds body and a bit of chewiness choose a good quality one so it holds up in the soup
- For serving: croutons shredded Parmesan and fresh parsley these take it from good to truly crave worthy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Chop the chicken breast into cubes dice the red bell pepper and onion and mince the garlic. This makes sure everything cooks evenly and quickly.
- Layer and Combine in the Slow Cooker:
- Add the chicken broth crushed tomatoes including basil cubed chicken red bell pepper diced onion tomato paste minced garlic honey Italian seasoning dried basil garlic powder onion powder salt pepper and red pepper flakes to your slow cooker. Give it all a good stir to combine. Combining these early lets the soup develop deeper flavor as it simmers.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for about two to three hours or low for four to five hours. The chicken needs to be fully cooked through. The longer simmer helps meld all the tastes so the soup is richly flavored.
- Add the Orzo Pasta:
- About thirty minutes before serving stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Cover again and cook on high until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to keep the orzo from clumping together.
- Serve with Garnishes:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese crunchy croutons and fresh chopped parsley. These toppings offer a nice mix of textures and extra bursts of flavor.
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Crushed tomatoes with basil are my favorite ingredient for this recipe because they add natural sweetness and make the broth taste instantly richer. My family loves gathering around the table with big bowls of this soup on cold nights—there is often just enough left for someone to beg for seconds at lunch the next day.
Storage Tips
Let the soup cool before storing it in airtight containers in the fridge. It keeps nicely for about four days. If you plan to freeze it you should leave the orzo out—add it fresh when reheating for the best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken tenderloins in place of breasts for a little more flavor. For a vegetarian take try white beans or a plant-based chicken substitute. If you cannot find orzo any small pasta like ditalini or tiny shells works well too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with toasted garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of mozzarella alongside Parmesan adds a gooey texture on top. For a cozy party vibe set out bowls of toppings like extra cheese and croutons so everyone can build their own bowl.
Cultural and Historical Context
Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian American dish that combines crispy chicken with tomato sauce and cheese. Turning it into a soup makes it more casual and family friendly but keeps all those classic flavors. It is the perfect bridge between old school comfort and modern weeknight convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and add extra richness to the final dish.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply omit the Parmesan topping or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
Yes, you can assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and cook the next day.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Cool the soup completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating as needed.
- → Can I use a different pasta than orzo?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can replace orzo; adjust cooking time as needed.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze without the crouton or cheese toppings for up to 2 months; reheat thoroughly before serving.