Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, let me introduce you to my beloved Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

What makes this soup truly special is how it combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and pillowy gnocchi all enveloped in a rich, creamy broth. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults will love the comforting flavors and soft gnocchi.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just set it in the morning and enjoy it later!
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to adapt based on what you have on hand – it’s hard to go wrong!
• Flavorful goodness: Each bite bursts with wholesome ingredients that make your taste buds dance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these up and get ready for some deliciousness!

• 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, read recipe closely)
• 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! Here are some easy variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Replace chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced potatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh thyme or basil to give it your unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like some heat.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in your slow cooker. These ingredients form the flavorful base of your soup. The longer they cook together, the more their flavors will meld into something magical!

Step 2: Add Liquid Gold

If you’re using Better than Bouillon, add that along with red pepper flakes if you’d like some spice. Pour in your low-sodium chicken stock or broth over everything and give it a gentle stir. This liquid will turn into a rich broth as everything cooks together.

Step 3: Slow Cook Away

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours or high for about 4 hours. This step allows all those lovely flavors to develop fully while making your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 4: Shred That Chicken

Once cooking is complete, take off the lid and shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot. This step helps distribute that tender chicken throughout the soup. If shredding feels tricky inside the pot, feel free to move it out onto a cutting board first!

Step 5: Creamy Transformation

In a small bowl, whisk together cream (or half and half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into your soup along with the gnocchi and baby spinach. Stir everything together well before covering again and switching your slow cooker to high for an additional 30–45 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

Uncover your pot one last time and stir well! If you’d like an even thicker consistency, mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with cool water before adding it to the soup. It should thicken nicely in just a few minutes.

Step 7: Season & Serve

Taste your wonderful creation! Adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper as needed. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up those flavors beautifully too! Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled cooked bacon if desired.

Enjoy every warm spoonful of this delightful Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this delicious soup is a breeze, but a few extra tips can make it even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs elevate the flavor profile of your soup, making it taste vibrant and full of life.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Proper seasoning is key! A good amount of salt and pepper enhances the broth’s depth, so taste and adjust as needed.
• Choose quality chicken stock: Opting for low-sodium chicken stock allows you to control the saltiness while still getting that hearty flavor. Better than Bouillon is a great option!
• Adjust thickness to preference: The cornstarch slurry helps you control the soup’s thickness. If you prefer it creamier, feel free to add more cornstarch gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Incorporate leftovers: This soup is perfect for using up any leftover veggies or chicken you have on hand, making it an easy and flexible dish.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this creamy delight can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• A sprinkle of cheese: Try adding shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra creamy touch.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes will add a flavorful kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the creamy soup and soaking up all that delicious broth.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the soup nicely while adding extra nutrients.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy breadsticks make for a delightful pairing that everyone will love dunking into their bowls.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup will not only satisfy but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-friendly containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without adding cream; add it after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
• Stir in any cream or half-and-half just before serving to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about this tasty soup!

Can I use different types of gnocchi for this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Any type of gnocchi will work well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary.

How do I make this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream with a plant-based cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream, for a delicious dairy-free version.

Can I prepare this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup in advance?

Yes! This soup is excellent for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

What vegetables can I add to my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Feel free to get creative! Add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme, a squeeze of lemon juice, or more spices based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting bowl of Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s not only simple but also brings warmth and happiness to any table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!