Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the answer! On those busy weeknights when you’re juggling a million things, this slow cooker recipe steps up to the plate. It’s not just easy to prepare; it’s also filled with wholesome ingredients that your whole family will love. The magic of the crockpot means you can set it and forget it, returning home to a house that smells like comfort.

This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, a comforting meal after a long day, or even as a dish for gatherings with friends. Each spoonful is packed with tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and vibrant veggies—all swimming in a creamy broth that’s simply irresistible. Get ready to scrape your bowl clean!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its delicious flavors and creamy texture, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for future cozy nights.
• Rich and Satisfying Flavor: Each bite is packed with savory goodness that warms you from the inside out.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand—or your family’s tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this soup! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store.

For the 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 to taste
• 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

Variations

One of the best parts about this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or use what’s available in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use diced turkey breast or rotisserie chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
• Add seasonal vegetables: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for cream to create a deliciously creamy texture without dairy.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing your chicken thighs or breasts in the bottom of a large slow cooker. Then add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, parsley, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step sets the foundation for all those wonderful flavors to meld together as they cook slowly.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Next, if you’re using Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base and red pepper flakes, add those now. Pour in the chicken stock over everything while giving it a gentle stir. This ensures all those fresh ingredients are well-coated with flavor before cooking starts.

Step 3: Slow Cook It

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours. The longer you let it cook on low, the more tender your chicken will be!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

When it’s time to check on your soup, remove the lid and shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. This step creates tender pieces that blend perfectly into your creamy broth.

Step 5: Create Creaminess

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the soup along with gnocchi and baby spinach. Stir well to combine everything. Put the lid back on and turn up the heat—let it cook for another 30-45 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Thicken If Desired

Uncover your pot again and give everything a good stir. If you’d like a thicker soup, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with water until smooth and stir it into the pot. Let it sit uncovered for about five minutes; you’ll notice how beautifully thickened it’ll become!

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Taste your delicious creation! Feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference—don’t be shy about really enhancing those flavors.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Ladle generous portions of soup into bowls. If you’re feeling indulgent, top each serving with crumbled cooked bacon before enjoying!

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that warms hearts and brings smiles around the table! Enjoy every last drop!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creating the perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is easy with a few helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture!

• Choose the right chicken – Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds moisture and flavor to the soup, making it incredibly tender after slow cooking.
• Prep your veggies ahead of time – Chopping your carrots, celery, and onion the night before not only saves time but also allows their flavors to meld beautifully with the broth.
• Don’t skip the seasoning – Adding salt progressively and tasting as you go ensures that your soup has a well-rounded flavor. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
• Adjust thickness to your liking – If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to use an extra tablespoon of cornstarch in your slurry; this will give you that luxurious creamy texture.
• Try different greens – While baby spinach is a great option, feel free to experiment with kale or Swiss chard for added nutrients and a different flavor profile.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this delicious soup can be just as fun as making it! With a few simple touches, you can make your bowl of goodness look as delightful as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Parmesan cheese – Shaving some dairy-free Parmesan over the soup provides an extra layer of richness and flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy completely, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
• Lemon zest – A light sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving brings a refreshing zing that balances out the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread – A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Consider sourdough or whole grain for added texture and flavor.
• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich soup wonderfully while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic knots – Soft garlic knots are another fantastic pairing; their buttery garlic flavor enhances the comforting vibe of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables – Serve some roasted seasonal vegetables on the side for a colorful plate filled with nutrients that also adds depth to your meal experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re well on your way to enjoying a cozy bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze some for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short intervals and stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I thicken my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you want a thicker consistency, try adding more cornstarch mixed with water or let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer after adding gnocchi and spinach.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this soup?

Yes! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe and saves time.

What sides go well with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How long can I store leftovers of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s an embrace on chilly nights, filled with warmth and comfort. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy cooking!