Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul and is super easy to make, you’ve found it! Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a beloved recipe in my home—one that brings comfort to busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. The combination of tender chicken, sweet vegetables, and fluffy gnocchi swimming in a rich, creamy broth makes this dish irresistible. There’s something about the slow-cooked flavors that just feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

This recipe not only tastes amazing but is also perfect for those days when you want to come home to a delicious meal without the fuss. Just set it in your crockpot, and let it do its thing while you go about your day. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep work, you can set this soup in motion and let your slow cooker handle the rest.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love gnocchi! This creamy soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and have dinner ready when you are. Perfect for busy nights!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients creates a rich, comforting flavor that feels homemade.
• Customizable: There are plenty of ways to tweak this recipe to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our delicious soup. You’ll find everything here either in your pantry or at the local grocery store!

• 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 Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some peas or corn for added sweetness and nutrition.
• Change up the greens: Kale can be a great substitute for spinach if you prefer something heartier.
• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream for a delicious twist that’s dairy-free!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. This step is important because layering these ingredients allows all their flavors to meld together beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Next, if you’re using Better than Bouillon or red pepper flakes, add them now! Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock over everything and give it a gentle stir. This helps combine all those fresh flavors right from the start. Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once your cooking time is up, remove the lid and shred that tender chicken right in the pot using two forks. This gives each bite of soup its heartiness while keeping everything juicy. If it’s easier for you, feel free to take out the chicken to shred before returning it back into the pot.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Gnocchi

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Then pour this creamy mixture into your soup along with those lovely potato gnocchi and baby spinach. Stir well! Now cover again and cook on high for another 30–45 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Uncover your delicious soup one last time! Give it a good stir; if you’d like it thicker, mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cool water before adding this slurry into the pot. The soup will thicken nicely within minutes.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Before ladling out servings into bowls, taste your soup! You may want to sprinkle in extra salt or pepper according to your preference—don’t be shy! A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up those flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Finally, ladle that warm goodness into bowls. If you’re feeling fancy (or just love bacon), top with crumbled bacon before serving. Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy delight!

Now you have everything you need to whip up this comforting bowl of goodness! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this creamy soup is a breeze, but these pro tips will ensure you achieve soup perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutrients to your soup.

• Adjust the seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your soup towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasonings accordingly for a flavor that suits you.

• Thicken it up if needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add extra cornstarch slurry. It’s a simple way to achieve your desired consistency without altering the flavor.

• Prep in advance: Chop your veggies ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This saves you time on busy days and makes throwing everything into the slow cooker even easier!

• Experiment with proteins: While chicken is delightful, don’t hesitate to try other protein options like turkey or plant-based alternatives for a fun twist on this recipe.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this delicious soup is a chance to get creative! Whether it’s a cozy dinner or gathering with friends, here are some delightful ways to present it.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy broth beautifully.

• Grated parmesan cheese: Although not strictly necessary, a light dusting of dairy-free grated cheese can add an extra layer of richness if you’re looking for that cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, soaking up every last drop of flavor.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

• Garlic breadsticks: These make for a fun and tasty accompaniment, ideal for those who love garlic flavors alongside their comforting bowl of soup.

• Roasted vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted veggies make a hearty side that compliments the meal while adding more nutrition.

Now that you’re armed with these serving suggestions and tips, it’s time to gather your loved ones around for some heartwarming bowls of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy cozy comfort food any night of the week. Whether you’re planning a busy week ahead or simply want to have leftovers on hand, this soup stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the gnocchi separate if possible, as they may absorb too much liquid over time.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the soup without gnocchi added.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
• If previously frozen with gnocchi, expect a softer texture; stir well and enjoy!

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or another protein of your choice, or even skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.

How do I thicken my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last cooking phase. This will help achieve that creamy consistency!

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

Yes! Frozen gnocchi can be added directly into the soup without thawing. They will cook perfectly while the soup is heating.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Cooking times vary depending on your slow cooker setting. On low, it takes about 6-8 hours; on high, approximately 4 hours.

Can I add other vegetables to Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s truly special because it’s not only easy to make but also comforting and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll find it as delightful as I do. Happy cooking!