Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe: Comforting & Easy

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the perfect comfort food that combines the rich flavors of chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables. This easy recipe is made with minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker, making it ideal for busy weekdays when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup promises to satisfy your cravings and warm you up on chilly nights.

Why Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a Must-Try

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. It’s incredibly easy to make—simply dump the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do all the hard work. The result is a hearty, flavorful soup that’s rich in texture and loaded with comforting flavors. This recipe is also customizable, allowing you to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences. Plus, it’s a family-friendly dish, sure to please both adults and kids.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Hearty Soup

The ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup are simple and easy to find. Each element brings its unique flavor and texture to create the perfect bowl of comfort. Here’s a breakdown:

Yellow Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base flavor.
Carrots: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture.
Celery: Adds freshness and crunch.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that shreds easily and adds heartiness.
Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic: Imparts deep flavor with a mild aroma.
Dried Thyme & Dried Rosemary: These herbs give the soup an earthy, aromatic flavor.
Chicken Broth: The savory base liquid for the soup.
Evaporated Milk: Adds a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream.
Cornstarch: Thickens the soup to give it a velvety consistency.
Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy pasta that soaks up the broth.
Baby Spinach: A burst of fresh green that wilts beautifully into the soup.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor, swap chicken breasts for thighs.
Half-and-Half: If you prefer a creamier soup, use half-and-half instead of evaporated milk.
Kale or Swiss Chard: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try kale or Swiss chard, though they will need a little more time to wilt.
Small Pasta: If you don’t have gnocchi, use small pasta or even small cheese tortellini.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Making this comforting soup in your Crockpot couldn’t be simpler. Follow these easy steps to achieve the perfect bowl of chicken gnocchi soup.

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the onion, grate the carrots, and slice the celery. Place these vegetables in the slow cooker.
  2. Add the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then lay them on top of the vegetables.
  3. Pour in the Broth and Seasonings: Combine chicken broth, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and fresh garlic. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
  4. Slow Cook the Soup: Cover and cook the soup on HIGH for 4-5 hours or on LOW for 7-8 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  5. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to make shredding easier.
  6. Add the Gnocchi: In a small bowl, whisk together evaporated milk and cornstarch until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker, followed by the shredded chicken and gnocchi.
  7. Finish Cooking: Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 45 minutes, until the gnocchi are soft and the soup has thickened.
  8. Add Spinach and Serve: Stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Tips & Tricks for the Best Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Sear the Chicken: For an extra layer of flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Shred Chicken Quickly: Use two forks or even a hand mixer to shred the chicken effortlessly.
Monitor the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi in the last 45 minutes of cooking to keep it from becoming too soft or mushy.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cornstarch. If it’s too thick, stir in extra broth to loosen it up.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add a burst of brightness.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is filling on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal:

Side Dish: Serve with a slice of garlic bread or a simple side salad with Italian dressing.
Variations: Try adding a bit of spice by sprinkling in some red pepper flakes or adding a dollop of pesto.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare this soup ahead of time but leave out the gnocchi and spinach. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply add the gnocchi and spinach and reheat.
Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.

Seasonal Benefits of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a perfect meal for any season, but it truly shines during the cooler months. The heartiness of the chicken, gnocchi, and vegetables make it a cozy choice for fall and winter. Plus, it’s packed with nourishing ingredients like spinach and carrots, offering a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. The soup is also versatile, so you can adjust the recipe according to the season or your dietary needs.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is the epitome of comfort food—rich, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and soft gnocchi, this soup is perfect for busy nights when you still want something that feels like a homemade hug in a bowl. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy with loved ones. Don’t forget to customize it based on your preferences and dietary needs, and you’ll quickly see why this soup is destined to become a new favorite!

FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Simply add it in the last 45 minutes of cooking, just like you would with fresh gnocchi. There’s no need to thaw it first, and it will become soft and pillowy in the soup.

2. Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another cut of meat?

Absolutely. You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Just keep the cooking times the same, and the result will be just as delicious.

3. Can I make Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time, but don’t add the gnocchi or spinach until you’re ready to serve. Let the soup cool, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and then reheat it on the stove. Add the gnocchi and spinach right before serving to ensure the perfect texture.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup due to the gnocchi and spinach. The gnocchi may become mushy when thawed, and the soup may separate. For the best texture, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

More Relevant Recipes

  • Creamy Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup: This creamy, comforting soup is packed with tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and a velvety cheddar cheese base. Similar to Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, it’s an easy and hearty meal made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
  • Crockpot Chicken Thighs and Gravy: Another flavorful and simple slow cooker recipe, this dish features juicy chicken thighs simmered in a savory gravy. The tender meat and rich sauce make it a perfect companion to the creamy, hearty textures found in Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
  • Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup: A creamy and cheesy potato soup with bacon and a blend of seasonings that brings comfort in every spoonful. If you love the creamy texture and heartiness of Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you’ll enjoy this equally satisfying and flavorful dish made in the slow cooker.
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Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe


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  • Author: Elina
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and fresh vegetables. Made effortlessly in a slow cooker, this comforting soup is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal with minimal preparation time. The soup is rich, flavorful, and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences.


Ingredients

  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 cup grated carrots (about 2-3 medium carrots)
  • 3 medium celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or 2 tablespoons for thicker soup)
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 1 (17.5 oz) package gnocchi
  • 3 cups baby spinach (or more to taste)


Instructions

  1. Place the diced onion, grated carrots, and sliced celery in the slow cooker.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and lay them on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
  3. Combine chicken broth, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, and minced garlic in a measuring jug, then pour over the chicken and vegetables.
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours or on LOW for 7-8 hours until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
  5. Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return them to the slow cooker.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with evaporated milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker, along with the gnocchi and shredded chicken.
  7. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 45 minutes, until the gnocchi are soft and the soup has thickened.
  8. Stir in the spinach and cook until it wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Notes

  • Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker adds extra flavor, though it’s optional.
  • Use two forks or a hand mixer to shred the chicken easily.
  • Add the gnocchi towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking it.
  • If the soup is too thick, add extra broth to adjust the consistency.
  • For a creamier texture, increase the amount of cornstarch or use half-and-half instead of evaporated milk.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 345 kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 509mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

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