Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that can simmer away while you go about your day, then this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is just the ticket! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—full of tender chicken, hearty veggies, and those delightful little gnocchi that practically melt in your mouth. This recipe has become a beloved staple for me, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

The best part? You can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do all the work while you relax. Whether it’s chilly outside or you’re just in the mood for some soul-soothing soup, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just throw everything into the slow cooker. It couldn’t be easier!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft gnocchi and creamy broth. It’s a win-win!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep—just store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for later.
• Delicious Flavor: This soup is rich and comforting, with layers of flavor from fresh ingredients and spices.
• Customizable: Feel free to add more veggies or swap out proteins to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious soup. Each component contributes to the rich flavor and creamy texture that makes this dish so special!

• 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 best things about Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its flexibility! You can easily tailor it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option or try turkey for a lighter soup.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to make it even heartier.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead; keep all the other ingredients the same.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing your chicken thighs or breasts at the bottom of your large slow cooker. Top them with your chopped carrots, celery, onion, parsley, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This layer of veggies will infuse flavor into the broth as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

If you’re using Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base and red pepper flakes for some heat, sprinkle those over your ingredients now. Pour in your low-sodium chicken stock. Give everything a gentle stir to mix it up—this helps distribute all those wonderful flavors throughout.

Step 3: Let It Cook

Cover your slow cooker and choose either low heat for 6–8 hours or high heat for about 4 hours. During this time, all those ingredients will meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Once cooking time is up, take off the lid and shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot. This step not only makes it easier to eat but also allows that juicy chicken flavor to mingle with every spoonful.

Step 5: Mix in Creaminess

In a small bowl, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your soup along with the gnocchi and baby spinach. Stir well! Cover again on high heat for another 30–45 minutes until gnocchi are cooked through.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

After cooking time is complete, give your soup another stir. If you’d like it thicker, mix additional cornstarch with cool water to create a slurry before adding it in. This helps achieve that perfect creamy texture we all crave.

Step 7: Taste & Serve

Finally, taste your delicious soup! Adjust seasonings as needed; sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten everything up! Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired. Enjoy each comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few extra tips can help you achieve that perfect bowl of comfort!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly, making your soup taste vibrant and full of life.

• Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Seasoning is key! Be generous with salt and pepper to bring out the rich flavors in your broth. Remember, it’s easier to add more at the end than to fix an under-seasoned soup.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer your soup thicker, feel free to adjust the amount of cornstarch. It’s all about your personal preference, so experiment until you find that perfect texture!

• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well – just make sure to leave out the spinach and gnocchi if you’re freezing it; add them when reheating!

• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. A bit of spice can really elevate this comforting dish!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this soup isn’t just about filling bowls; it’s an opportunity to create a delightful dining experience! Here are some ideas for plating and pairing.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor.
• Lemon Wedge: Serving with a lemon wedge allows guests to brighten their bowl with a squeeze of fresh juice.
• Croutons or Crispy Toppings: For added crunch, consider homemade croutons or even crispy chickpeas sprinkled on top.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The perfect companion! Warm, buttery garlic bread is ideal for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color while complementing the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy breadsticks provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with every spoonful of soup.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to create not just a meal, but a memorable experience around your table. Enjoy every warm bite of your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy comforting soup whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers.
• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep in mind that gnocchi may absorb some broth as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to consume within this time frame.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth if needed.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each setting.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.

How can I thicken my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you want a thicker consistency, simply whisk together more cornstarch with cool water and stir it into the soup while it’s cooking. It’ll thicken nicely!

What sides pair well with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. Both options complement its creamy texture perfectly!

Is Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup good for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep as it stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storing and freezing tips above.

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

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just chop them up similarly and toss them into the crockpot.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as I do! It’s an incredibly comforting dish that warms both heart and soul—perfect for those chilly nights or busy weeks. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; I’m sure it will become a new favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

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