Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, then let me introduce you to my favorite Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! This dish has a special place in my heart because it’s not only easy to whip up, but it also fills the kitchen with the most delightful aroma while it simmers away in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this soup is packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and those delightful little gnocchi that add a pillowy texture. Trust me; you’ll be reaching for that last spoonful!

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for dinner, this soup never disappoints. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and I can guarantee it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
• Family-friendly: The creamy flavors and tender chicken make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep—just store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later!
• Deliciously satisfying: Each bowl is filled with wholesome ingredients that are sure to fill you up and warm your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients makes preparing the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup a breeze. 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

Broth & Creaminess

• 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

Final Touches

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! Here are some ideas to personalize your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for cream to create a deliciously creamy version without dairy.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. This step sets the foundation of flavors that will meld beautifully during cooking.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Next, if you’re using Better than Bouillon and red pepper flakes, sprinkle them over your veggie-chicken mix. These ingredients add depth to your soup’s flavor profile. Pour in the chicken stock or broth and give everything a gentle stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook Away

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows all those flavors to develop fully while making the chicken incredibly tender.

Step 4: Shred Your Chicken

Once it’s done cooking, take off the lid and shred the chicken using two forks right inside the crockpot. This step makes sure every bite is full of flavorful chicken goodness!

Step 5: Add Creaminess

In a small bowl, whisk together cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your soup along with gnocchi and spinach. Stir well before covering again—this helps create that rich creamy texture we all love!

Step 6: Thicken It Up

Let your soup cook on high for another 30-45 minutes. If you want an even thicker soup consistency, whisk together more cornstarch with water first before adding it in.

Step 7: Final Seasoning Touches

Give everything one last taste! Adjust salt and pepper as needed—don’t be shy! A squeeze of lemon juice can really brighten up those flavors if desired.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle generous servings into bowls and top with crumbled cooked bacon if you’d like. Now dig in—you deserve every comforting spoonful!

And there you have it! A deliciously creamy bowl of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup that’s sure to warm both hearts and bellies alike!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few tips can take it from great to absolutely delicious!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. They create a vibrant taste that frozen or dried ingredients simply can’t match.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning as you cook. Every palate is different, so taste throughout the process and add salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.

• Be Mindful of Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker, cooking times may vary. If you’re unsure, check the chicken for doneness before shredding; it should be tender and easy to pull apart.

• Thicken as Needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t be shy about adding more cornstarch slurry at the end. This allows you to control the consistency based on your preference.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to toss in other veggies like mushrooms or peas for added nutrition and texture. The more colorful your soup, the more appealing it will be!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup can enhance its appeal even further! Here are some delightful ways to present it.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates each bowl.
• Shredded Cheese: A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese melts into the warm soup for an extra creamy finish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to brighten their soup with a squeeze of fresh juice, adding a zesty twist.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It complements the creamy texture beautifully and makes for a satisfying meal.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with tangy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are not only comforting but also perfect for sopping up every last bite of your delicious soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add color and nutrition, making them a healthy accompaniment that balances out the meal nicely.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful recipe with those you love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. You can prepare it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
• When storing, keep in mind that the gnocchi may absorb some liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Note that while the flavors will still be great, the texture of the gnocchi may change once thawed.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I thicken my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

You can thicken your soup by whisking together cornstarch with equal parts water and then stirring it into the soup during the final cooking stage.

What should I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for dipping.

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

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or bell peppers. Just remember to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup a try! It’s such a comforting dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also warms your soul with every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or prepping meals for later, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor each bite!