Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless & Flavorful: With just a few simple ingredients and a Crockpot, you can create a rich, creamy chicken soup that’s full of flavor without the fuss.
Tender Chicken: The slow-cooking process ensures that the chicken turns out tender and juicy, absorbing all the amazing flavors of the broth and seasonings.
Comforting & Filling: This soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, hearty, and perfect for cold weather or when you just want a cozy meal.
Minimal Prep: With a quick prep time, this soup essentially cooks itself in the Crockpot, making it perfect for busy days or when you need a hands-off dinner option.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both adults and kids, making it an easy and satisfying meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup baby spinach, chopped (optional)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Sear the chicken on both sides for 3-4 minutes, just to get a golden color. This step is optional but helps lock in flavor.
Add to Crockpot:
Place the seared chicken breasts into the Crockpot. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, and basil. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Slow Cook:
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the Crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the soup is smooth and creamy. If you like, add chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Serve:
Stir everything together, taste for seasoning, and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high

Variations

Add Veggies: You can incorporate other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor and more tender meat.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, be sure to stir well, as the cream may separate slightly.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little chicken broth or water if the soup is too thick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

Searing the chicken is optional, but it adds extra flavor and color to the chicken. If you’re in a rush, you can skip this step and just add the chicken directly to the Crockpot.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for several days, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

You can use milk or a dairy-free alternative if you want a lighter version. Keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different.

How can I thicken the soup?

If you want a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Parmesan is recommended for its nutty flavor, but other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can also work well.

Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?

Yes, you can add cooked pasta or rice to the soup for extra heartiness. Be sure to cook the pasta or rice separately before adding it to avoid overcooking it.

Can I make this recipe in a stovetop pot?

Yes, you can make this on the stove in a large pot. Simply cook the chicken and vegetables on medium heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes until the chicken is tender. Shred the chicken and add the cream and cheese as directed.

Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, peas, or corn for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, you can easily spice things up by adding red pepper flakes, chili powder, or diced jalapeños.

Conclusion

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Soup is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep. With minimal effort and big rewards, this comforting soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love.