Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that practically makes itself, then you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic while you go about your day.

What I love most about this soup is how it brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just enjoying a bowl on a quiet evening, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and pillowy gnocchi create a flavor combination that may have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is packed with flavors and textures that kids and adults alike will love, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy broth combined with savory chicken and fresh veggies makes each spoonful feel like home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze some for later.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create the rich flavors of this soup. 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

For the Broth

• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base (optional)
• pinch 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 the Gnocchi

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach

Optional Toppings

• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk or a plant-based creamer to keep that creamy texture without dairy.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you’re craving extra heat!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into your slow cooker. This mix of fresh vegetables not only adds flavor but also nutrients to your soup.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

If you’re using Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning and red pepper flakes, add them now. This step enhances the soup’s depth of flavor. If you skip this ingredient, be sure to adjust your salt later!

Step 3: Pour in the Stock

Gently pour in the chicken stock or broth over your ingredients and give everything a light stir to combine. 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 flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Shred Your Chicken

Once cooking time is up, uncover your pot and shred the chicken right inside using two forks. It’s important to do this while everything is still hot so that the meat falls apart easily.

Step 5: Create Creaminess

In a small bowl, whisk together your cream (or half and half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your soup along with the gnocchi and spinach. Stir well before putting the lid back on and switching to high heat again for another 30-45 minutes.

Step 6: Thicken as Desired

After cooking time has passed again, check the thickness of your soup. If you’d like it thicker, whisk together more cornstarch with cool water as needed before stirring into the soup.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your delicious creation! Adjust with more salt or pepper as needed—don’t be shy here! A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up those flavors too.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle out generous portions into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired. Enjoy every warm bite of this comforting Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating a delicious Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is about the little details, so here are some handy tips to help you achieve soup perfection!

• Invest in good stock: Using quality low-sodium chicken stock or broth enhances the overall flavor of your soup. It sets a solid foundation for all the ingredients to shine.

• Fresh herbs are key: Fresh parsley not only adds a lovely taste but also brightens up the dish visually. Don’t skip on adding it right at the beginning and consider topping with more before serving for that fresh pop.

• Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing the soup to simmer for the recommended time ensures the flavors meld beautifully and the chicken becomes tender. Patience pays off in flavor!

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to use more cornstarch slurry. This will give you that creamy texture that makes each spoonful indulgent.

• Taste as you go: Always be sure to taste your soup before serving! Adjust seasoning as needed, whether it’s salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some lovely ideas to present this comforting dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness that complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For a tangy twist, add crumbled feta cheese which pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the soup.
• Lemon wedges: Providing lemon wedges allows guests to add a bit of acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of each bowl.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. Its buttery richness balances beautifully with the flavors of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with hearty croutons and a light Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds nutrition but also offers a crunchy texture that complements your soft gnocchi.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette adds freshness and helps cleanse your palate between bites of creamy goodness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with this delightful creamy delight! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked comfort food without the fuss during busy weeks. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

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.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian option while maintaining a hearty texture.

How do I thicken Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can thicken the soup by whisking together cornstarch with water and adding it to the pot. Let it cook for an additional few minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.

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

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works great in this recipe; just add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing.

What can I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or even some garlic knots for a comforting meal.

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

Properly stored in an airtight container, it will last about 3-4 days in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in whipping up this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether it’s a chilly night or you’re simply craving something hearty, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!