Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that practically makes itself, then you’ve come to the right place! My Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a go-to in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I just want to come home to a delicious, warm bowl of goodness. This soup is not only comforting but also packed with tender veggies, juicy chicken, and pillowy gnocchi—all swimming in a velvety broth that you’ll want to savor until the very last drop.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. You can toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you take care of life’s little demands. Whether it’s family gatherings or just dinner for one after a long day, this soup checks all the boxes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just throw everything in your crockpot and let it do the work. No fuss, no hassle!
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it all week long.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken, veggies, and gnocchi creates a heartwarming dish that’s sure to please everyone.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with whatever veggies or spices you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients for this scrumptious soup! They are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating that cozy meal we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 1 and 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 3-4 medium whole carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1-2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 1/2 medium yellow or white onion (chopped)
• 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley (flat or curly, chopped)
• 4-5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
• salt and black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base (optional)
• pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth

For Creaminess

• 1 cup cream or half and half
• 1-2 Tablespoons cornstarch

For Gnocchi and Greens

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach

Optional Topping

• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily tailor it to fit your taste buds or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even chickpeas if you’re looking for a meatless option!
• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutritious boost.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to give it your unique twist.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients together. This makes cooking smoother as you won’t be scrambling around looking for something mid-recipe. Chop your veggies and seasonings so they’re ready to go.

Step 2: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. If you’re using Better than Bouillon paste and red pepper flakes, add those too! Pour in the chicken stock over everything and give it a gentle stir. This step is crucial as it helps blend all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 3: Set It and Forget It

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful while letting those vegetables soften perfectly.

Step 4: Shred That Chicken

Once cooked through, remove the lid and shred that chicken right in the pot using two forks. If it’s easier for you, feel free to take it out first—whatever works best! Shredding adds wonderful texture throughout the soup.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together your cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture back into the pot along with the gnocchi and spinach. Stir well—this is where things get dreamy!

Step 6: Cook Until Perfectly Thicked

Put the lid back on and turn your slow cooker to high again. Let everything cook together for another 30-45 minutes until the gnocchi are tender. If you’d like to thicken things up more at this point, whisk up some cornstarch with cool water as mentioned earlier.

Step 7: Taste Test Time!

When it’s done cooking away happily in your kitchen, taste your soup! Adjust with salt and pepper as needed—it should taste rich and inviting. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up those flavors beautifully!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Ladle that glorious soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if you’d like! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting dish; it’s sure to warm both your heart and belly!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of creamy goodness is easier than you think! Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience and ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only taste better but also contribute vibrant flavors and nutrients to your soup. The fresher, the better!

• Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Seasoning can vary based on personal preference and ingredient variations. Don’t hesitate to add a bit more salt or pepper until it’s just right for you.

• Cook Low and Slow: If time allows, opt for the low setting on your slow cooker. This helps the flavors meld beautifully over several hours, resulting in a deeply flavorful broth.

• Add Spinach at the End: To retain its vibrant color and nutritional benefits, add the spinach towards the end of cooking. It will wilt perfectly without losing its fresh flavor.

• Experiment with Gnocchi: While traditional potato gnocchi is delightful, don’t hesitate to try other varieties like sweet potato or gluten-free gnocchi for a fun twist!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Presentation is key when it comes to serving this delightful soup! A little effort in how you present your dish can make mealtime feel extra special.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Adding a touch of lemon zest brightens up the entire dish and enhances its freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: If you enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add richness and depth to your soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Simple Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are another delicious option that pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional colors and flavors to your meal while remaining healthy and satisfying.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to enjoying a comforting bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve its deliciousness:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the toppings (like bacon) separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a pot on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful soup!

Can I use frozen gnocchi in my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be added directly to the soup during the last cooking phase. They’ll cook perfectly while soaking up all those wonderful flavors.

How do I ensure my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is creamy?

To maintain that creamy texture, whisk together your cream (or half and half) with cornstarch before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help thicken the soup beautifully!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What can I substitute for chicken in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, feel free to replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for protein. Adjust cooking times as needed!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s sure to brighten any day. Enjoy creating this comforting meal for yourself and your loved ones—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

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Dinner