Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that practically makes itself, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s my go-to on busy weeknights or when I want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and delightful gnocchi all simmered together creates a flavor that will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Simply toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe brings everyone together at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple preparation: Just add ingredients to the slow cooker and walk away!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the pillowy gnocchi, making it a hit with everyone.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Versatile flavors: Add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal twist.
• Comforting goodness: The creamy texture warms you right up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you won’t need anything fancy—just good, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 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 red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Finish

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
• 1 cup cream or half and half
• 1-2 Tablespoons cornstarch

For the Gnocchi

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach

Optional Topping

• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best parts about this soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option!
• Add more greens: Toss in kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
• Go vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based twist.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by placing all your chopped veggies, chicken, and seasonings into your slow cooker. This step is crucial because layering these flavors will enhance the overall taste of your soup as they cook together.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Pour in your low-sodium chicken stock or broth over everything. Give it a gentle stir to combine. This liquid will serve as the base for your soup, allowing everything to simmer beautifully.

Step 3: Slow Cook It

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. This long cooking time allows all those lovely flavors to meld together while keeping your chicken juicy and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, it’s time to shred that chicken! Use two forks to pull it apart right in the slow cooker—this keeps all those savory juices intact.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

In a separate bowl, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this delightful mixture into your soup along with gnocchi and spinach. Stir well! This step adds rich creaminess while thickening up your soup just right.

Step 6: Final Cooking Touches

Put the lid back on and let everything cook on high for another 30-45 minutes. This gives you perfectly cooked gnocchi that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 7: Season to Perfection

Before serving, give everything a good stir! Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—more salt? A squeeze of lemon juice? Your preference matters here!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle that gorgeous soup into bowls and top with crumbled cooked bacon if you desire! Sit back and enjoy every last spoonful of this comforting bowl of goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few tips can take your dish from good to fantastic!

• Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and chicken the night before. This saves time in the morning and allows you to throw everything into the crockpot with ease.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! Adding enough salt, pepper, and herbs will bring out the flavors of the chicken and veggies, making each bowl bursting with taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. They add brightness and depth that dried versions may lack.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, keep an eye on it during the last stages of cooking. The cornstarch slurry can be adjusted based on your preference for creaminess.

• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers to customize your soup to your liking. They not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrients!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this delightful soup can be as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors beautifully. Place a wedge on each bowl for guests to add to their liking.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping. The hearty texture pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is always a hit! Its crispy edges complement the velvety soup wonderfully.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables offers vibrant flavors and textures that balance out the meal nicely.

Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of goodness, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

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 notice any separation, simply stir before serving.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

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

Absolutely! You can add frozen gnocchi directly into the slow cooker during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking without thawing. They will cook perfectly and absorb all those lovely flavors.

How do I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting chicken with your favorite plant-based protein (like chickpeas or tofu) and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged!

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

Certainly! Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces so they cook through properly.

What can I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a slice of crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a nice finishing touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!