Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. This creamy dish brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fluffy gnocchi in a rich broth that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or for a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and incredible flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream and chicken stock creates a velvety soup that is truly satisfying.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly Dish: Kids love the soft textures of gnocchi and tender chicken, making this a hit for all ages.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time; this soup tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Liquid measuring cup
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This is essential for easy, hands-off cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and chicken.
Liquid measuring cup: Perfect for accurately measuring liquids like broth and cream for consistent results.
Whisk: Useful for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing cornstarch with liquid.

Ingredients

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 Flavor Boosters

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

For Creaminess

1 cup cream or half and half
1-2 Tablespoons cornstarch

For Gnocchi & Greens

1 pound potato gnocchi
3 cups baby spinach

Optional Topping

4 slices cooked bacon (optional for serving)

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancers

If using Better than Bouillon and red pepper flakes, add them to the slow cooker now. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken stock or broth over the mixture. Ensure it’s well mixed before covering.

Step 4: Cook It Low & Slow

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

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once done cooking, remove the lid. Shred the chicken using two forks while still in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

In a small bowl, whisk together cream (or half and half) with cornstarch. Pour this mixture into your soup along with gnocchi and spinach. Stir well.

Step 7: Final Cooking Phase

Put the lid back on your slow cooker set to high. Let it cook for another 30-45 minutes until gnocchi is tender.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Uncover and stir. If desired thickness isn’t achieved, mix additional cornstarch with water then whisk into soup. Taste for seasoning adjustments before serving hot! Optionally top individual servings with crumbled cooked bacon.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Serving Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is about enhancing the comforting flavors and making the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped parsley or basil – Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Croutons – Add a crunchy texture with homemade or store-bought croutons.

Pair with Bread

Crusty baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
Garlic bread – The rich garlic flavor complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Add a Protein Boost

Grilled chicken – For an extra protein punch, consider adding pieces of grilled chicken on top.
Tofu cubes – For a plant-based option, add crispy tofu cubes for added texture.

How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance the recipe.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality chicken make all the difference in flavor.
Adjust seasoning – Taste frequently and adjust salt, pepper, or spices to your preference for a well-balanced soup.
Experiment with broths – Try using homemade broth for richer flavor compared to store-bought options.
Don’t rush the cooking time – Allowing it to cook slowly maximizes flavor development; patience is key!
Add cream at the right time – Stir in cream towards the end of cooking to maintain its richness without curdling.
Thicken wisely – Use cornstarch slurry gradually until you reach your desired consistency without over-thickening.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies add depth and nutrition alongside your comforting soup.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – These fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every delicious drop.
Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a hearty addition that complements the soup’s flavors.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds protein and texture while keeping things healthy.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch next to the creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience while making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Here are some missteps to watch out for:

Using the wrong cut of chicken: Choosing bone-in or skin-on cuts can lead to a greasier soup. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a cleaner flavor.
Overcooking the vegetables: Adding veggies too soon can make them mushy. Add heartier vegetables first and lighter ones like spinach later in the cooking process.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: The broth may need additional salt and pepper after cooking. Always taste before serving and adjust according to your preference.
Skipping the lid during cooking: Removing the lid frequently releases heat and steam, prolonging cooking time. Keep it covered unless specified in the instructions.
Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can lead to a thick or dry soup. Always ensure you’re adding enough low-sodium chicken stock or broth to maintain creaminess.
Ignoring the thickening process: If you want a thicker soup, don’t forget to add cornstarch mixed with water. This step is crucial for achieving that velvety texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Portion into smaller servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, covering loosely. Stir every minute until hot.
Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs or breasts directly in the slow cooker. Just be aware that it may increase cooking time slightly.

What can I substitute for gnocchi?

If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, consider using small pasta shapes like ditalini or even cooked rice as alternatives.

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup lasts up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort any day of the week. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, whether adding different vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!