Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is not only simple to prepare, but it also brings comfort and warmth to any occasion, whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. With tender chicken, flavorful veggies, and soft gnocchi enveloped in a rich broth, you’ll want to savor every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings, this soup bursts with flavor.
• Comforting Meal: The creamy texture and tender gnocchi provide the ultimate comfort food experience.
• Versatile: Great for family dinners or meal prep; freeze leftovers for an easy meal later.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this delicious Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup requires minimal tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is essential for creating that deep, rich flavor as ingredients meld over hours.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this comforting 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
• 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
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Add the Better than Bouillon if you’re using it along with red pepper flakes. Pour the chicken stock over everything and stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

With the lid still on, shred the chicken using two forks. You can also remove it to shred more easily before returning it to the pot.

Step 5: Add Cream and Gnocchi

In a small bowl, whisk together cream and cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the soup along with gnocchi and spinach. Stir well. Cover again and cook on high for another 30–45 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust Thickness

If you’d like a thicker soup, whisk together more cornstarch with water then stir into the soup. Let it thicken for about five minutes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup! You might want to add more salt or lemon juice to elevate flavors.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves – Add slivers of fresh basil for an aromatic touch that complements the creaminess.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Crumbled Bacon – For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, crumbled bacon adds a delicious crunch.
• Toasted Croutons – Toss in some crispy croutons for an extra layer of texture in every bite.

With a Side of Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the soup.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top for an added savory element.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar can add richness and depth to the soup’s flavor.

How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making the perfect creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out amazing every time.

• Use High-Quality Chicken – Fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Sauté Aromatics First – For deeper flavors, consider sautéing garlic and onion before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Adjust Seasoning Last – Always taste before adding more salt or spices; you can always adjust seasoning at the end.
• Thicken with Cornstarch Slurry – If you prefer a thicker soup, make a cornstarch slurry and stir it in towards the end of cooking.
• Add Spinach Last – To keep spinach vibrant and fresh, add it only during the last cooking phase.
• Garnish Generously – Don’t skip on garnishes like herbs or cheese; they elevate both presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing your creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and acidity to balance the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side that pairs wonderfully with your creamy soup.
3. Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad brings additional flavors without being too heavy.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits with cheesy goodness make for an indulgent pairing.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meats can be a hearty side option.
6. Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses offers diverse flavors that complement the soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not seasoning properly – Failing to adjust the salt can lead to bland soup. Always taste and add salt gradually for the best flavor.
• Skipping the sauté process – Some ingredients, like garlic and onions, benefit from being sautéed first. This enhances their flavor significantly.
• Using the wrong chicken cut – Using lean cuts can dry out the soup. Opt for thighs for tenderness and rich flavor.
• Overcooking gnocchi – Gnocchi cooks quickly, so adding it too early can turn it mushy. Add it in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
• Ignoring broth quality – The soup’s base is crucial. Use high-quality low-sodium chicken stock for a delicious depth of flavor.
• Not garnishing – A lack of garnish can make the soup less appealing. Top with fresh herbs or crumbled bacon for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs or breasts directly in the slow cooker without thawing them first.

How do I thicken Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Add cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. Stir well and let it cook until thickened.

What can I substitute for gnocchi?

You can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or tortellini if you can’t find gnocchi.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free gnocchi and check your broth for any added gluten ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy days. Its rich flavors and velvety texture make it a family favorite. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs for a personal touch!