Simple Crockpot Soups: Weeknight Warmth, Zero Fuss (Print Version)
Whip up hearty, Easy Crockpot Soups for Weeknights! Discover my favorite recipes, tips, and personal stories for delicious, fuss-free dinners.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 4 Hours minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Servings: 6-8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American Comfort
Dietary: Comfort Food
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
4 cups (32 fl oz) low sodium chicken broth
02 -
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
03 -
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
04 -
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
→ Flavor Boosters
05 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
06 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
2 tsp Italian seasoning
08 -
0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Veggie Power-Ups
09 -
5 oz fresh spinach
→ Finishing Touches
10 -
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
11 -
Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get those aromatics ready! I usually start by dicing my onion—sometimes I even shed a tear or two, honestly. Then, mince that garlic. You want everything prepped and ready to go before the crockpot even enters the picture. This is where I always make sure my counter is clear, because kitchen chaos is real, and I need space for all the chopping! It’s all about setting yourself up for success for these Easy Crockpot Soups.
02 -
Next, grab your trusty crockpot. Toss in the chicken broth, those undrained diced tomatoes, and the rinsed cannellini beans. Add your diced chicken breast, too. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything around. I sometimes get a little messy here, splashes are inevitable, but it’s all part of the fun, right? Don't worry if it doesn't look like much yet; the magic happens slowly, promise!
03 -
Now for the good stuff! Add your diced onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and those optional red pepper flakes to the crockpot. Stir everything together until it's well combined. This is where the soup really starts to smell like something special, even before it's cooked. I always take a deep sniff here; it's like a preview of the deliciousness to come. Make sure everything is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
04 -
Pop the lid on your crockpot. Set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. I usually go for the low and slow method because it makes the chicken incredibly tender and allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. I've definitely forgotten to turn it on before, only to realize hours later—oops! So double-check that dial, hon. This hands-off cooking is why Easy Crockpot Soups are a lifesaver.
05 -
Once the cooking time is up and the chicken is falling-apart tender, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken right on a cutting board. It should be super easy to pull apart! Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, then stir in your fresh spinach. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the spinach has completely wilted. The vibrant green adds such a lovely touch.
06 -
Ladle your warm, inviting soup into bowls. This is the moment I always look forward to! The aroma is just incredible. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A little extra cheese never hurt anyone, right? Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, and watch everyone dig in. It's truly a satisfying, heartwarming meal that makes all that minimal effort worth it.
# Notes:
01 -
Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; what tastes good to me might need a little more something for you.
02 -
Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
03 -
No cannellini beans? Great northern beans or chickpeas work well as a substitute, I've tried them, they're good!
04 -
A generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan at the end makes this dish sing, don't skip it!
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
6-quart or larger slow cooker/crockpot
02 -
cutting board
03 -
sharp knife
04 -
measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Protein: 35g