Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out, then let me introduce you to my favorite Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe has become a staple in our home, especially on those busy weeknights when everyone is craving something comforting yet easy to prepare. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and pillowy gnocchi swimming in a creamy broth, it’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug.

This soup is perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying with loved ones after a long day. Plus, it’s so straightforward to make! Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic while you go about your day. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it cook—easy peasy!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love gnocchi, and the flavors are mild yet delicious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—score!
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture combined with tender chicken and veggies makes every bite delightful.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious soup. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge!

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)

For Seasoning & Broth

• 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

For Creaminess

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

For Gnocchi & Greens

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach

Optional Topping

• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños.
• Creamy alternative: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. This colorful mix not only looks beautiful but also lays the foundation for rich flavors as they meld together during cooking.

Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancers

If you’re using Better than Bouillon and red pepper flakes, sprinkle those in next. These little additions boost the flavor profile beautifully. Pour in your chicken stock or broth over everything and give it a gentle stir to combine. Cover it up and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooking time is complete, remove the lid and shred that tender chicken right in the pot using two forks. Shredded chicken blends perfectly with all those lovely veggies and helps create that comforting texture we all adore.

Step 4: Create Creaminess

In a separate bowl, whisk together your cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. This step is crucial as it adds that luscious creaminess we crave in a soup! Pour this mixture into your slow cooker along with the gnocchi and spinach. Stir well to combine everything again before covering it up for another 30-45 minutes on high.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning

After that time has passed, uncover your pot and give everything a good stir. If you’d like it thicker—a common desire—mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with cool water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup. It will thicken nicely over the next few minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches Before Serving

Now comes my favorite part: tasting! Adjust seasonings as needed—don’t be shy with salt if you didn’t use Better than Bouillon initially. If you’re feeling fancy, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up those flavors before ladling this delightful soup into bowls. Top with crumbled bacon if desired.

Enjoy every spoonful of this warm bowl of joy!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few extra tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value to your soup. Fresh produce can make a significant difference in taste compared to their canned or frozen counterparts.

• Shred Chicken Efficiently: For perfectly shredded chicken, it’s often easier to remove it from the slow cooker and shred it on a cutting board or using a stand mixer. This method keeps your broth intact and helps you avoid splashing.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to use more cornstarch with water. This allows you to control the texture without compromising the creamy goodness of the soup.

• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Start with less salt and pepper initially, then adjust according to your preference once the flavors have melded. This ensures a well-balanced broth that doesn’t become overly salty.

• Experiment with Greens: While baby spinach is delightful, feel free to mix in other greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrition and flavor variety. Just remember to add them toward the end of cooking so they retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this delicious soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese: These cheeses provide a creamy contrast that complements the soup’s richness while adding an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup and soaking up all that creamy goodness.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery bites pair well with the flavors of the soup, providing an irresistible crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and heartiness to your meal, making it even more satisfying.

Enjoy serving up this comforting bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup alongside these delightful accompaniments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.
• If you’re using bacon, consider storing it separately to maintain its crispiness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just remember to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on low power to defrost.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it’s too thick upon reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish!

Can I use other types of meat in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute with turkey or even a meat alternative like chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What makes Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup so creamy?

The cream or half-and-half added towards the end of cooking gives this soup its rich and velvety texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute with a plant-based cream alternative!

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your soup should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply follow the same steps but simmer everything in a large pot over medium heat until cooked through.

What can I serve alongside Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even garlic bread for some extra indulgence!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and smiles with every bowl. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own—happy cooking!