Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, let me introduce you to my favorite Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe is like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? You toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

This soup has become a staple in my home because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and those delightful little gnocchi that practically melt in your mouth. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a quiet night in, this soup never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just throw everything into the slow cooker and forget about it! Perfect for busy days.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Creamy and savory, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the ingredients in advance and let the crockpot do all the work.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with whatever veggies or seasonings you have on hand.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with wholesome goodness, this soup will leave everyone feeling content.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You probably have many of these staples already at home!

• 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 things I adore about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up to suit your taste buds.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of raw chicken for even quicker prep.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped kale, diced zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for cream to create a creamy texture without dairy.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken thighs or breasts into your slow cooker. Then add those vibrant carrots, crunchy celery, chopped onion, fresh parsley, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step sets the foundation for layers of flavor that will develop as they cook slowly together.

Step 2: Add Stock & Seasonings

Next, if you’re using Better than Bouillon paste, stir that in along with any optional red pepper flakes. Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock over everything—this is where the magic begins! Give it all a gentle stir to combine before covering it up. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for about 4 hours until that chicken is tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, it’s time to shred that delicious chicken! Carefully remove the lid from your slow cooker and use two forks to pull apart the meat right inside. Or if you prefer more space, feel free to take it out onto a cutting board first. Shredding it allows all those flavors to meld perfectly back into your soup.

Step 4: Add Cream & Gnocchi

In a separate bowl, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your slow cooker along with those fluffy potato gnocchi and baby spinach. Stir well—it’s getting so close now! Cover again and let it cook on high for another 30–45 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Give everything one last good stir before tasting! Adjust seasoning if needed—don’t be shy with that salt! If you’d like a thicker consistency, simply whisk together more cornstarch with water and stir it into your pot. It should thicken up nicely after just a few minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm bowl of creamy goodness after a long day—enjoy every last spoonful!

Now that you have this wonderful recipe at hand, I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making the perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about a few simple tricks that elevate your dish to restaurant quality. Here are some handy tips to ensure your soup turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup, making it taste homemade and vibrant. Quality ingredients always make a difference in the final taste.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Seasoning is key! Make sure to taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or other spices as needed. This ensures a well-balanced flavor profile.

• Let it cook low and slow: Cooking on low for longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, cooking on high is still effective, but the depth of flavor may be slightly less pronounced.

• Add greens at the end: Adding spinach (or any leafy greens) towards the end of cooking helps them retain their vibrant color and nutrients. It also keeps their texture from becoming mushy.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Crumbled bacon (if desired), fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese can add a delightful finish to your bowls.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving up this delicious soup is just as important as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup beautifully and deliciously.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes gives the soup an extra kick while enhancing its overall flavor.
• Squeeze of lemon: A dash of lemon juice right before serving can bring out all the flavors in your soup and provide a refreshing twist.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, soaking up all that delicious broth.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons complements the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing element.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can be a colorful side that balances out the meal while providing extra nutrition.
• Cheesy biscuits: Fluffy cheesy biscuits are not only comforting but also make for great companions alongside your hearty soup, perfect for mopping up every last drop!

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating an experience full of warmth and comfort. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious soup:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to airtight containers for easy storage.
• Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, use low heat and stir frequently until it reaches a simmer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that you might have about this recipe:

Can I use store-bought gnocchi in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Yes! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking as directed.

How long does Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup last?

When stored properly, this creamy soup lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Is there a substitute for cream in this recipe?

Yes! You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

What should I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Enjoy creating this cozy meal and share it with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like gathering around a bowl of delicious soup. Happy cooking!