Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, giving you time to unwind while filling your home with the most delightful aromas.

This soup is packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and pillowy gnocchi, all swimming in a rich and creamy broth. Every spoonful is pure bliss! Plus, it’s so simple to make that even if you’re not an experienced cook, you’ll feel like a kitchen pro. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the magic. Perfect for those hectic days!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and have dinner ready when you are. It’s ideal for meal prepping!
• Comfort in Every Bowl: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits – especially on cooler days.
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. No fancy items here—just good food!

• 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 to taste
• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base (optional)
• Pinch of 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! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your mood.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option. Or try diced turkey breast!
• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for added nutrients.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the chicken entirely and add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a little kick!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients! This makes everything easier as you go along. Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your crockpot. This colorful mix not only looks beautiful but also brings a wealth of flavors to your soup.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

If you’re using Better than Bouillon paste and red pepper flakes, now’s the time to add them! These will deepen the flavor profile of your soup. If you’re skipping the bouillon, keep in mind that you’ll want to add more salt later to make sure everything tastes just right.

Step 3: Pour in Stock

Next up is adding four cups of low-sodium chicken stock or broth over everything. A gentle stir helps combine all those lovely ingredients. Cover your slow cooker and let it do its thing! Cooking on low for 6–8 hours allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once your cooking time is up, take off the lid and shred that tender chicken using two forks right in the pot. Shredding it back into the soup keeps all those juices intact—it adds even more flavor!

Step 5: Make it Creamy

In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together cream (or half and half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture into your soup along with gnocchi and spinach. Stir well! Now turn up the heat on your slow cooker; let it cook for another 30–45 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

Once it’s done cooking again, give it a good stir! If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cool water until smooth; then stir this slurry into your soup.

Step 7: Taste Test

Before serving, taste your soup! Add any extra salt or pepper if needed—don’t be shy; seasoning is key! A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten things up nicely too.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle that comforting goodness into bowls and top with crumbled cooked bacon if desired. Then sit back and enjoy every last drop of this heavenly Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color and texture to your soup, making it even more appetizing.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different! Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors according to your preference.

• Consider the gnocchi cooking time: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so adding it towards the end of the cooking process ensures it remains soft and pillowy without becoming mushy.

• Thicken as desired: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t be shy about using that cornstarch slurry. Just remember to let it sit for a few minutes after adding to see how much it thickens before adding more.

• Store leftovers properly: This soup stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for later enjoyment—just reheat gently!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this delightful soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: While keeping in mind dietary preferences, offering grated dairy-free cheese on the side gives an option for those who enjoy that cheesy kick.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. It adds texture and is ideal for savoring every last drop.

• Simple green salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully. It adds a crisp contrast that balances out the meal.

• Garlic knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots make a delicious side that pairs wonderfully with this comforting soup. They’re perfect for soaking up all those tasty flavors!

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings extra nutrients and flavor to your meal. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and herbs.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your soup fresh and tasty:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you anticipate not finishing it within that time frame, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label the containers with the date and name of the dish.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Have some questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries about this delicious recipe.

Can I use different vegetables in my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out carrots and celery for other veggies like bell peppers or peas. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on your choices.

What can I substitute if I don’t have gnocchi for my soup?

If gnocchi isn’t available, you can replace it with small pasta shapes such as ditalini or even rice. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!

How long does Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your soup will last about 3-4 days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving!

Can I make this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and replace the chicken with hearty vegetables or plant-based protein like chickpeas.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as comforting as I do! It’s perfect for cozy nights or busy days when you need a warm hug in a bowl. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish in your kitchen—I can’t wait for you to savor each spoonful. Happy cooking!