Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve found it! This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the answer to your busy weeknights and chilly weekends. Imagine coming home to a house filled with the delightful aroma of slow-cooked goodness, where tender chicken, savory vegetables, and fluffy gnocchi come together in a creamy broth that’s simply irresistible. It’s a dish that my family loves, and I bet yours will too!

This soup is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for something comforting after a long day, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Family Favorite: The creamy texture and delicious flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping – just store leftovers in the fridge for easy reheating.
• Customizable: Feel free to add or swap out ingredients based on your preferences!
• Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s hearty, wholesome, and oh-so-satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious 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
• 1 cup cream or half and half
• 1-2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have available. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more greens: Toss in kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for extra nutrients.
• Change up the broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a lighter flavor.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Chop your vegetables, mince the garlic, and gather everything together. Having everything prepped makes cooking much smoother!

Step 2: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. This combination creates an amazing base flavor. Adding everything at once means less fuss later!

Step 3: Add Stock and Seasoning

Next, pour in the chicken stock or broth over the mixture. If you’re using Better than Bouillon paste and red pepper flakes, add them now too! Stir gently to combine all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours or high for about 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping everything tender.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked through, remove the lid and shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. This step is crucial as shredded chicken absorbs more of that lovely soup flavor.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

In a small bowl, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your slow cooker along with gnocchi and baby spinach. Stir well to combine before covering again.

Step 7: Final Touches

Cook on high for another 30–45 minutes until gnocchi is tender. If you’d like your soup thicker, mix additional cornstarch with cool water and stir it in until desired consistency is reached.

Step 8: Season & Serve

Give your soup a taste! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired—or enjoy as is!

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup will warm hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this dreamy soup is a breeze, but I have a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds extra moisture and flavor compared to breasts. This will make your soup heartier and more delicious.

• Prep your veggies in advance: Chopping your carrots, celery, and onion ahead of time can save you precious minutes on busy days. Plus, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together.

• Adjust the seasoning: Taste your soup before serving! Depending on the broth used, you may want to add more salt or pepper. A little squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors wonderfully!

• Thicken to your liking: If you prefer a creamier texture, don’t hesitate to use more cornstarch slurry. Just remember to whisk it well with cool water before adding it to avoid clumps.

• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to cool slightly before serving will help the flavors develop even further. Trust me; your patience will be rewarded!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup is all about enhancing its warm and inviting nature. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy base.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also adds a hint of spice.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative): For those who enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can take this soup over the top—just ensure that any cheese alternatives are suitable for your dietary preferences.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and soaking up all those delicious flavors. You can easily whip up a simple version by spreading butter and minced garlic on slices of baguette and baking them until golden brown.

• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully. It’s quick to prepare and adds a nice crunch.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts provide additional nutrients and flavors that pair excellently with the gnocchi soup.

• Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits with garlic butter and cheese are another delightful accompaniment. They’re perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness left in your bowl!

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy every spoonful of your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a busy week or just want to enjoy this delicious dish over a few days, knowing how to store it properly can help you savor every bite.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing

• To freeze your soup, let it cool completely first.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring between bursts to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Yes! You can add frozen gnocchi directly into the slow cooker without thawing them. They’ll cook perfectly during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.

How do I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute regular potato gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is fantastic for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions above to keep it fresh.

What should I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread, making for a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.

Can I add other vegetables to Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!