Name: Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484933H17M
Total time: PT-484933H17M
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; ½ cup heavy cream; 16 ounces refrigerated gnocchi; 3 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added freshness); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for busy days, this slow-cooked soup requires minimal effort while delivering a deliciously rich and satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking to impress your family with an easy yet comforting dish, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines the comforting flavors of a creamy chicken soup with the delightful texture of gnocchi. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and the flavors meld together perfectly. With the addition of spinach for freshness, this soup is both comforting and nutritious. Plus, it’s easy to prepare—just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinnertime!

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream
16 ounces refrigerated gnocchi
3 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added freshness)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Add chicken breasts, chicken broth, diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced celery, thyme, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Slow Cook the Soup: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Add the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Continue to cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender.
Add the Cream and Spinach: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach, if using. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the soup is creamy.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6 servings.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high.
Total Time: 6-7 hours (slow cooker time).

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with plant-based protein or tofu, and use vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup for a spicy twist.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or potatoes for more texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, keep in mind that gnocchi may change in texture once frozen. If you plan to freeze, consider adding the gnocchi after reheating the soup.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes, and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.

2. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, you can make it on the stovetop. Cook the chicken and vegetables in a large pot until the chicken is tender, then add the gnocchi and simmer until cooked through.

3. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just add them to the slow cooker at the same point as you would fresh gnocchi and cook until they are tender.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?

To make the soup thicker, you can either reduce the amount of broth or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and stir it into the soup.

5. Can I add cheese to the soup?

Yes! Grated Parmesan cheese or other cheeses like mozzarella can be added to the soup for extra flavor and creaminess.

6. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. However, gnocchi may change in texture after freezing. If freezing, you may want to add the gnocchi after reheating.

7. Can I skip the heavy cream?

Yes, you can skip the heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup. You can substitute it with milk or a dairy-free cream alternative if needed.

8. Can I use other greens besides spinach?

Yes, you can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or swiss chard for a different flavor and texture.

9. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple salad, or even some garlic bread for a complete meal.

10. Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes, then add the gnocchi and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup is an easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings together the best elements of a creamy chicken soup with tender gnocchi. Perfect for busy days, this slow-cooked recipe delivers a rich, hearty meal with minimal effort. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives, and enjoy this cozy, satisfying soup with family and friends.