Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, let me introduce you to my favorite Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This recipe is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and the delightful texture of gnocchi, this soup truly embodies comfort food in its finest form.

What makes this soup even more special is how effortlessly it comes together in a slow cooker. Just set it and forget it! It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you’re simply craving a bowl of something nourishing and satisfying. I promise, once you try it, you’ll want to make this creamy goodness a regular feature in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!
• Family-friendly flavor: The blend of chicken, veggies, and gnocchi makes everyone at the table happy.
• Comforting and filling: This soup is rich and hearty, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance for an easy meal later in the week.
• Customizable options: You can easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this recipe so wonderful! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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)
• A pinch of 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 parts about this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option!
• Add extra greens: Toss in some kale or swiss chard along with the spinach for added nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chickpeas for chicken and use vegetable broth instead for a hearty plant-based version.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes if you love some heat!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by placing your chicken thighs or breasts into the slow cooker. Then add in those vibrant carrots, crunchy celery, sweet onion, fresh parsley, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients create a flavorful base that will infuse the soup with delicious aromas while cooking.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

If you’re using Better than Bouillon seasoning base, now’s the time to stir that in along with any red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of spice. Pour your chicken stock over everything—this will keep your soup moist and flavorful as it cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours or high for around 4 hours. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while making sure your chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once it’s cooked through, remove the lid and gently shred the chicken using two forks right inside the pot. If it’s easier for you, feel free to take it out first! This step helps incorporate all that juicy flavor back into the soup.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

In a small bowl, whisk together your cream (or half-and-half) with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture back into your soup along with potato gnocchi and baby spinach—this will add richness while thickening up your soup nicely.

Step 6: Final Cooking Phase

Put the lid back on and turn up your crockpot to high for another 30 to 45 minutes. This allows the gnocchi to cook through perfectly while soaking up all that creamy goodness.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Give your soup one last stir after uncovering it. Taste test for seasoning; don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper as needed! A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten things up beautifully too. Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few simple tips, you can make this soup even more scrumptious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of the soup, making it taste more vibrant and homemade. Opt for organic produce when possible to maximize freshness.

• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to taste the soup before serving. Adjust the salt, pepper, or add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors according to your preference.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days! Making it in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.

• Freeze leftovers: If you have any leftovers, freeze them in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish on a busy day without any extra work!

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your soup by adding other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also swap out spinach for kale or add a handful of peas for an extra pop of color and nutrition.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving this soup is all about presentation and complementing its rich flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens each bowl.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative): A light dusting of cheese on top brings an additional layer of richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy base.
• Crumbled crackers or croutons: Adding some crunchy elements gives a lovely texture contrast against the smooth soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The classic pairing! Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup and soaking up every last drop.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup. Toss together some greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for a vibrant mix.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the soup nicely while adding extra nutrients.
• Cheesy breadsticks: These soft, cheesy delights are perfect for dunking into your hearty soup and will keep everyone coming back for more!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! Enjoy every warm and delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not just a delightful meal; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, saving you valuable cooking time during busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour the leftover soup into an airtight container.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this comforting recipe, you’re not alone!

How can I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Can I use homemade gnocchi in Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will add a wonderful touch to your soup. Just make sure to add them during the last cooking phase so they don’t become too soft.

What if I don’t have Better than Bouillon for my Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

If you don’t have Better than Bouillon, you can simply omit it and substitute with additional salt or a few more herbs to enhance flavor.

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

Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup! It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any day of the week. With its easy preparation and delicious flavors, it’s designed to bring comfort to your table. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to share your experience!