Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is one of those recipes that instantly makes you feel at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s full of tender veggies, flavorful chicken, and those delightful little gnocchi that just melt in your mouth.

I love how this soup can bring everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a quiet night in, it always brings smiles and satisfied tummies. The best part? You can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do its magic!
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Each bite is packed with hearty goodness that warms your soul.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adapt to what you have on hand or to suit personal tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients doesn’t get much simpler than this! All you need are some wholesome staples that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

• 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 this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken for an even quicker option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in extra greens like kale or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Change up the gnocchi: Try using different types of gnocchi—like cauliflower gnocchi—for a lighter twist.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your vegetables. This step is not only about getting everything ready but also allows those fresh flavors to shine. Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic so they can infuse their goodness into the soup as it cooks.

Step 2: Load Up Your Slow Cooker

Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Adding these ingredients first ensures they get tender throughout cooking. If you’re using Better than Bouillon or red pepper flakes, toss them in now too!

Step 3: Add Broth and Cook

Pour in your low-sodium chicken stock. Stir gently to combine everything. Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours or high for about 4 hours. This long cooking time is what makes all those flavors meld together perfectly!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

When it’s done cooking, remove the lid and shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot. Shredded chicken will soak up more of that delicious broth. Alternatively, feel free to take it out if that’s easier for you; just return it after shredding!

Step 5: Create That Creamy Base

In a small bowl or measuring cup, 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; this will give your soup that luscious creaminess we all love.

Step 6: Final Cooking Time

Put the lid back on and switch to high heat again. Let everything cook together for another 30–45 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and everything is heated through.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

After cooking time is up, give the soup a good stir! Taste it and adjust seasoning as needed—don’t be shy with salt! A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up those flavors wonderfully.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle that comforting soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired. Gather around with loved ones and savor every spoonful of this cozy delight!

Now you’ve got yourself a hearty bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making the perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is all about the little details, and I’ve got some pro tips to help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh carrots, celery, and spinach not only enhance the flavor but also contribute important nutrients to your soup. Fresh produce ensures a brighter taste and better texture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different, so don’t hesitate to adjust the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference. This step is crucial for achieving a well-rounded flavor that everyone will enjoy.

• Consider using frozen gnocchi: Frozen gnocchi can be a convenient option as they save time during meal prep. They’re often pre-cooked, which means less cooking time in the slow cooker while still providing that delightful pillowy texture.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup freezes beautifully! Prepare a double batch and store half in an airtight container after cooking. Just reheat on the stove or microwave when you’re ready for a quick meal later.

• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a wonderful aromatic quality to your soup. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup is as enjoyable as eating it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting presentation that makes every bowl feel special.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the flavor with its bright herbal notes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: If you’re looking for an extra layer of creaminess and umami flavor, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of fresh black pepper on top can provide a lovely hint of spice that complements the creamy base perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. It adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing side that balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a colorful and nutritious addition that pairs wonderfully with your meal.
• Cheesy breadsticks: Soft and cheesy breadsticks are not only fun to eat but also soak up all that delicious broth while adding a cheesy flavor twist.

Enjoy your cozy family meals with this deliciously creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup! The combination of flavors and textures will keep everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later enjoyment, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks.

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.
• For best results, store the gnocchi separately if you plan on eating leftovers later, as they can absorb too much liquid.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, make sure containers are tightly sealed.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other proteins in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas for a vegetarian version that still delivers great flavor.

How do I thicken my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into your soup while it’s cooking. Let it simmer a few minutes to thicken up nicely!

What can I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. They complement each other perfectly for a complete meal!

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Your creamy soup will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is truly special—it brings warmth and comfort to your table with minimal effort. I hope you have as much fun making it as I do! Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy cooking!