Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is quickly becoming a favorite in my kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have the time to stand over the stove. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic.

What makes this soup extra special is its delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and pillowy gnocchi all swimming in a velvety broth. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a quiet dinner at home, this soup brings everyone together and guarantees smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply dump the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: With its creamy texture and gentle flavors, even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting soup.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is filling enough to be a meal on its own, making it ideal for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

For Adding Flavor

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

For the Broth

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

For Thickening and Final Touches

• 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 is! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or diced turkey instead of raw chicken.
• Add more greens: Throw in some kale or Swiss chard alongside the spinach for extra nutrients.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu for a hearty plant-based version.
• Switch up the seasoning: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your soup a unique twist.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Start by placing your chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. This combination creates a flavorful base that will infuse into every bite as it cooks!

Step 2: Add Additional Flavors

If you’re using Better than Bouillon and red pepper flakes, now’s the time to add them in! These ingredients boost the flavor profile of your soup significantly. Stir gently to combine everything.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Next, pour the chicken stock over everything in your crockpot. Give it another gentle stir so that all those lovely flavors blend together nicely. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours—it’s like setting it up for a delicious surprise later!

Step 4: Shred That Chicken

Once cooking time is up, take off the lid and shred your chicken right in the pot with two forks. This step not only breaks up the meat but also allows more flavor to meld into the broth.

Step 5: Whisk Together Cream and Cornstarch

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together cream (or half and half) with cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will help thicken your soup beautifully once added back into the pot!

Step 6: Add Gnocchi and Spinach

Stir in your gnocchi and fresh spinach along with that creamy mixture. Cover again and let it cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes—this will give everything time to combine perfectly.

Step 7: Final Touches

Give your soup one last good stir before serving. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix an extra tablespoon of cornstarch with cool water to create a slurry before adding it in. Adjust seasonings as needed—don’t be shy about adding salt!

Step 8: Serve Warm & Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup into bowls. If desired, top with crumbled bacon for an added crunch! Enjoy every warm spoonful—you’ve earned this moment of comfort!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish from good to fantastic!

• Choose the Right Chicken Cut – Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds more flavor and juiciness compared to chicken breasts. They stay tender even after hours of cooking.
• Prep Your Veggies Ahead – Chopping your veggies in advance saves time when you’re ready to throw everything into the crockpot. Plus, it ensures even cooking and integration of flavors.
• Adjust the Thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to add extra cornstarch mixed with water. It’s an easy way to get that perfect creamy consistency without compromising flavor.
• Season Throughout – Taste as you go! Adjusting salt and pepper at different stages helps build layers of flavor, ensuring a well-seasoned bowl of soup.
• Use Fresh Spinach – Adding baby spinach towards the end not only boosts nutrition but also adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to your hearty soup.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this comforting soup in style can enhance the dining experience for you and your family or guests. Here are some ideas to make your meal memorable!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil – A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs on top adds vibrant color and a burst of flavor that complements the creamy soup beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – While avoiding animal-derived products in our recipe, consider using plant-based cheese alternatives for those who enjoy a cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – A classic side that pairs wonderfully with soup. The crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor are perfect for dipping!
• Caesar Salad (Vegan Option) – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with vegan Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutritional value. Think carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers seasoned simply with olive oil and herbs.
• Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette makes for a nutritious side that balances the richness of the soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is sure to impress everyone at the table! Enjoy each spoonful of warmth and comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but you can also make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you’re packing it for lunches, consider dividing it into individual servings for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label the containers with the date and contents. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Note that while the gnocchi may become slightly softer upon thawing, the soup will still taste delicious!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use your microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen directly in a pot, add a splash of broth or cream to help loosen it up as it warms.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly!

How do I thicken my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you find your soup is too thin after cooking, whisk together additional cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup while it’s still warm.

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

Yes! Feel free to add in your favorite veggies like peas, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What can I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or packing it for lunch, this recipe will surely bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!