Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm your heart on chilly nights, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe: Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! This delightful soup is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want something hearty and satisfying. It’s a family favorite in my house, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

What makes this soup extra special is its creamy texture combined with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and a medley of fresh veggies. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or at a gathering with friends, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the aroma wafting through your home as it simmers away in the slow cooker!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it! Dinner practically makes itself.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy goodness and delicious flavors, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients in advance so you can have a warm meal waiting for you after a long day.
• Comfort Food Bliss: This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 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

For Flavor Boost

• 1 teaspoon Better than Bouillon chicken seasoning base (optional)
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creaminess

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
• 1 cup cream or half and half
• 1-2 Tablespoons cornstarch

The Star Ingredient

• 1 pound potato gnocchi

For Freshness

• 3 cups baby spinach

Optional Topping

• 4 slices cooked bacon (for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use diced turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken if you prefer!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some peas or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like a kick!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing all your fresh ingredients into a large slow cooker. This includes your chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The beauty of this step lies in how easy it is—everything goes into one pot!

Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancers

If you’re using it, mix in Better than Bouillon and red pepper flakes now. These additions will amplify the flavor of your soup. Pour in your chicken stock or broth over everything. A gentle stir will help combine all those lovely flavors together.

Step 3: Slow Cook Away!

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Letting it cook slowly allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping everything tender.

Step 4: Shred That Chicken!

After cooking time is up, uncover your pot and shred the chicken directly inside using two forks. It’s so tender at this point that it’ll pull apart easily! If it’s easier for you to do this on a cutting board instead, feel free!

Step 5: Cream It Up

In a small bowl, whisk together cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the soup along with your gnocchi and spinach. Stir well before putting the lid back on. This will ensure that every bite has that wonderful creamy goodness!

Step 6: Final Cooking Stage

Set your slow cooker back to high and let it cook for another 30-45 minutes. This gives time for the gnocchi to cook through while thickening up that luscious soup.

Step 7: Taste Test Time!

Once done cooking, give everything a good stir again. If you’d like it thicker, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with equal parts cool water before adding that slurry into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—don’t be shy with that salt!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your heavenly soup into bowls—you might want to top each serving with crumbled bacon if desired! It’s perfect for enjoying on its own or with some crusty bread on the side.

Now grab yourself a spoon and dive into this deliciously cozy bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your veggies and measuring out your spices in advance can save you precious time on busy days. This means you can simply toss everything in the crockpot without any stress.

• Choose Quality Stock: Using low-sodium chicken stock or broth enhances the flavor of your soup without overwhelming saltiness. A good quality stock will result in a richer, more satisfying taste.

• Don’t Skip the Shredding Step: Shredding the chicken after cooking allows the meat to absorb more of the soup’s flavors. It also gives each bowl a more inviting texture, ensuring every spoonful is filled with tender chicken.

• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to add that additional cornstarch slurry! A well-thickened soup is not only heartier but also makes for a comforting meal that sticks to your ribs.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving! This allows you to adjust seasoning levels according to your preference, ensuring a perfectly flavored bowl for everyone.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this creamy delight is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully and make it even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Crumbled Cheese: A bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese provides a tangy contrast to the creamy soup.
• Lemon Zest: A light touch of lemon zest brightens up the dish, making every bite feel refreshing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping. The buttery flavor complements the creamy soup wonderfully.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the rich soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and color on your plate while adding depth in flavor.
• Cheesy Biscuits: Soft and cheesy biscuits are delightful alongside this soup, perfect for sopping up every last drop.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup will not only warm your belly but also impress those gathering around your table! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its deliciousness throughout the week! With a little planning, you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time.

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.
• Keep it in portion-sized containers for easy grab-and-go meals!

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before placing it in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also reheat in the microwave; just be sure to cover it and stir halfway through heating!

FAQs

Here are a few common questions about making this delightful creamy dish.

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option that still packs a flavorful punch.

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

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container!

What can I use instead of cream in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer. Both will still give you that lovely creamy texture while keeping things dairy-free!

Can I add more vegetables to my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even green beans. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. Enjoy making this recipe, and savor every delicious spoonful! Don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!